Chicken Satay With Peanut Sauce

To make delicious chicken satay with peanut sauce, you’ll need boneless chicken thighs, coconut milk, and various spices. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce for at least 4 hours. Grill the skewered chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, basting with marinade. For the peanut sauce, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Don’t overcook the chicken to guarantee juicy results. You can customize the recipe with variations like adding chili flakes for heat or using tofu for a vegetarian option. Mastering this dish opens up a world of Southeast Asian flavors.

The Perfect Chicken Satay

Chicken satay is a beloved Southeast Asian dish, particularly popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. This grilled skewered meat is known for its aromatic blend of spices and creamy peanut sauce. The perfect chicken satay boasts tender, juicy meat with a slightly charred exterior, infused with a complex marinade that balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the peanut sauce:

• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sriracha sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch wide and 4-inch long strips.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, turmeric, cumin, coriander, lemongrass, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the pre-soaked skewers.
6. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, rotating to achieve even char marks.
7. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
8. Serve the grilled chicken satay immediately with the peanut sauce on the side.

Top Tips

1. Use chicken thighs instead of breast meat for juicier results.
2. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be just cooked through to maintain juiciness.
5. Baste the chicken with leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor.
6. Let the grilled satay rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Variations

1. Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.
2. Spicy version: Add red chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a kick.
3. Coconut-crusted: Roll the marinated chicken in shredded coconut before grilling.
4. Curry satay: Add curry powder to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
5. Fruit-infused: Include pineapple or mango chunks between chicken pieces on skewers.
6. Green satay: Blend in fresh cilantro and mint to the marinade for a herbaceous twist.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	6
Calories	420
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	10g
Protein	35g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	580mg

This chicken satay recipe is high in protein, making it a satisfying main course. The use of coconut milk adds healthy fats, but also increases the saturated fat content. The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb diet. However, the peanut sauce does add extra calories and fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. For a lighter version, consider using light coconut milk and reducing the amount of peanut sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Peanuts for the Sauce?

You can definitely experiment with alternative nuts for your sauce. Try cashews, almonds, or macadamias to create unique flavor variations. Each nut will impart its distinct taste profile, offering innovative twists on the traditional recipe.

How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?

You’ll maximize flavor intensity through advanced marinating techniques. Aim for 4-8 hours; beyond that, you won’t see significant impact. For innovation, try vacuum-sealing or sous vide marination to accelerate flavor infusion and tenderization.

What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Skewers From Burning?

To prevent skewer burning, you’ll want to employ effective skewer protection techniques. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use. Alternatively, use metal skewers. For advanced grilling tips, wrap exposed ends with aluminum foil.

Is There a Vegetarian Alternative for Chicken Satay?

You can create a vegetarian satay using firm tofu or textured soy protein. Marinate these alternatives in traditional satay spices, then grill or pan-fry them. They’ll absorb flavors well and provide a protein-rich, innovative meat substitute.

Can I Make the Peanut Sauce in Advance and Reheat It?

You can prepare peanut sauce in advance, but its consistency may thicken when refrigerated. To reheat, use low heat on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add water or coconut milk to adjust consistency if needed.

Can Roast Chicken Be Served With Peanut Sauce Like Chicken Satay?

Pairing roast chicken with peanut sauce offers a delightful fusion, much like chicken satay’s bold flavors. While peanut sauce complements the savory chicken beautifully, exploring roast chicken panzanella recipe ideas can also inspire creative twists, blending juicy roast chicken with vibrant ingredients for a fresh, hearty dish ideal for any occasion.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the art of chicken satay with peanut sauce. By following these precise techniques for marinating, skewering, and grilling the chicken, you’ll achieve tender, flavorful results every time. The accompanying peanut sauce, with its balanced blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, elevates the dish to new heights. Remember to adjust spice levels and cooking times as needed for best outcomes. Serve your homemade chicken satay with confidence at your next gathering.