Name: Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon turmeric; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders; 18 metal or bamboo skewers; 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk; 1 to 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to desired spiciness); ¾ cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter; ½ tablespoon kosher salt; ¾ cup sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider or white vinegar; ½ cup water (plus additional as needed); ¼ cup crushed peanuts, for serving; Additional chopped fresh cilantro, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 3 reviews

If you are craving something vibrant, packed with flavor, and utterly comforting, this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken tenders marinated in a luscious blend of coconut milk, garlic, turmeric, and cilantro, then grilled to perfection and served alongside a rich, creamy peanut sauce that strikes the ideal balance between sweet, tangy, and spicy. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to bring a touch of Southeast Asian flair right to your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of raw chicken pieces placed on white crumpled paper in the center left, surrounded by small white bowls filled with various ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are several metal skewers on the far left, a bowl of white granulated sugar at the top right, and fresh green cilantro on the far right. The bowls contain different powders and liquids in shades of yellow, red, brown, and white. A clear glass jug filled with coconut milk and a black bowl with chopped nuts add texture contrast to the layout. The colors are soft, with natural lighting highlighting the freshness of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. From the fragrant turmeric that infuses the chicken with warm color and flavor to the creamy peanut butter that gives the sauce its irresistible texture, every element is essential to creating an authentic and delicious experience.

⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk: Adds richness and a subtle tropical flavor to the marinade that tenderizes the chicken.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of aromatic depth that elevates the overall taste.
1 tablespoon turmeric: Imparts vibrant golden color and earthy undertones to the chicken.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Provides fresh herbal notes both in the marinade and for garnish.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
2 tablespoons fish sauce: Delivers authentic umami and salty complexity.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning that enhances all the flavors perfectly.
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders: Perfectly tender and quick-cooking for skewers.
18 metal or bamboo skewers: Essential for grilling and serving the satay.
¼ cup crushed peanuts: Adds a delightful crunch as a finishing touch.
1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk: Base for the creamy peanut sauce.
1 to 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste: Brings a gentle heat and vibrant flavor to the peanut sauce.
¾ cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter: The heart of the dipping sauce, providing creamy richness.
½ tablespoon kosher salt: Balances the sauce perfectly.
¾ cup sugar: Adds sweetness for harmony in the sauce.
2 tablespoons apple cider or white vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten and lift the sauce.

How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Start by combining the coconut milk, minced garlic, turmeric, chopped cilantro, brown sugar, fish sauce, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This flavorful marinade is what transforms the chicken into something sensational with its balanced combination of sweetness, tanginess, and savory umami notes.

Step 2: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Pat your chicken tenders dry and, using a mallet or rolling pin, pound them until thin. This step is key because thinner pieces grill evenly and soak up more marinade. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet, then pour the marinade on top. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to let the flavors deepen.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

For the lush peanut sauce, whisk together the canned coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, peanut butter, salt, sugar, vinegar, and about half a cup of water in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat while whisking constantly until slightly thickened—roughly five minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes to meld the flavors. If it becomes too thick when cooled, gently reheat adding a splash of water to loosen it.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers tightly, making sure to divide the chicken evenly. Place the skewers on the grill and cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes per side, ensuring a beautiful char and perfect tenderness. Once cooked through, transfer to a serving platter.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish the chicken satay skewers with freshly chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts for a burst of fresh and crunchy texture. Serve it alongside the homemade peanut sauce to dip into and enjoy every bite.

How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe

The image shows five grilled skewers of yellow marinated chicken with dark grill marks on a round white plate. The chicken pieces are slightly charred and sprinkled with chopped peanuts and green cilantro leaves. A small round black bowl filled with a creamy light brown peanut sauce topped with chopped peanuts is placed on the left side of the plate. Additional chopped peanuts and cilantro leaves are scattered around the plate on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a white plate with more chopped peanuts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts over the grilled chicken skewers just before serving. The cilantro adds a bright, herbal contrast, while the peanuts bring a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy peanut sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your chicken satay with fragrant jasmine rice or coconut rice for a comforting base that soaks up the peanut sauce. A crisp cucumber salad or tangy pickled vegetables will also refresh the palate and balance the richness of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the satay skewers on a wooden board alongside small dipping bowls of the peanut sauce. Garnish the platter with lime wedges for a zesty squeeze and scatter some extra crushed peanuts and cilantro for a restaurant-style presentation that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken satay has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and makes for an excellent quick meal throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, the chicken skewers freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 2 months for convenient future enjoyment.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken satay gently either in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or on a grill pan to retain that lovely char. Warm the peanut sauce separately on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into thin strips to mimic the tenders so they cook evenly and absorb the marinade well. The key is keeping the pieces thin for the best texture and flavor.

How spicy is the peanut sauce in this recipe?

The peanut sauce has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the Thai red curry paste. You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more curry paste if you prefer a stronger kick or reducing it for a gentler flavor.

Can I prepare the marinade and peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, both can be made a day in advance. The marinade flavors deepen the longer the chicken soaks in it, and the peanut sauce tastes even more harmonious after resting. Just reheat the sauce gently before serving.

What can I use instead of fish sauce in the marinade?

If you want to avoid fish sauce, soy sauce or tamari are good substitutes that still provide savory umami without compromising too much on the authentic flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling indoors?

Definitely! You can cook the chicken skewers under a broiler or use a grill pan on your stovetop. Just watch them carefully to get those nice grill marks without burning.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe is a total winner that brings together bold flavors, delightful textures, and ease of preparation in one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to become a staple everyone asks for again and again. Don’t hesitate — get grilling and savor every delicious moment!