Introduction

Satay chicken with peanut sauce is a delectable dish that combines tender, marinated chicken skewers with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. Originating from Southeast Asia, this recipe captures the essence of traditional satay, bringing a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness to your plate. The dish is perfect for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, showcasing the vibrant taste of grilled chicken paired with a luscious dipping sauce.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast – 500 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
– Brown sugar – 2 tablespoons
– Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
– Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
– Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
– Skewers – As needed, soaked in water if wooden

For the peanut sauce:
– Peanut butter – 1/2 cup
– Coconut milk – 1/2 cup
– Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
– Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
– Lime juice – 1 tablespoon
– Chilli sauce – 1 teaspoon (optional)

Prep Time

Prep time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes. This includes the time taken to marinate the chicken and prepare the peanut sauce, ensuring that the flavors meld together perfectly.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is about 15 minutes, as the skewers are grilled until they are cooked through and slightly charred. The total time for the entire recipe, including preparation and cooking, is roughly 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a great option for a small gathering or a family meal. Enjoy this savory satay chicken with a generous drizzle of the delicious peanut sauce!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for better flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Cook the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, and sugar. Whisk together until smooth. Let it simmer to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: skewering the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for around 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve the Dish

Plate the cooked skewers and drizzle with peanut sauce. Serve with lime wedges and fresh herbs for garnish.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Options

Chicken breast can be used as an alternative to thighs, although thighs are preferred for moisture.

Note 2: Peanut Sauce Consistency

Adjust the consistency of the peanut sauce by adding more coconut milk or water if desired.

Note 3: Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soaking is essential to avoid burning while grilling. Metal skewers are an alternative.

Note 4: Storage

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Peanut sauce can be stored separately.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. It is recommended to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to overnight) will enhance the taste even further.

Grilling

Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat helps to achieve a smoky flavor while keeping the meat juicy. Ensure the grill is preheated to allow for proper searing and to develop nice grill marks.

Basting

Basting the chicken with its marinade while it’s cooking will help to keep it moist and add extra flavor. Just be sure to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Making Peanut Sauce

The peanut sauce is made by combining ingredients such as peanut butter, coconut milk, and spices. Heating the sauce gently ensures that the peanut butter fully blends with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the satay chicken with a side of peanut sauce for dipping. Garnishing with fresh herbs or chopped peanuts can enhance presentation and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use other meats such as beef, pork, or tofu as alternatives for satay. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary based on the protein used.

How do I store leftover satay chicken?

Leftover satay chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze the satay chicken?

Yes, you can freeze marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s well-sealed in a freezer-safe bag or container. Cooked satay chicken can also be frozen for convenience.

What can I serve with satay chicken?

Satay chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Additionally, serving with grilled vegetables can complement the dish nicely.

Conclusion

The Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that combines a balance of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for any meal. The tender chicken paired with the creamy peanut sauce creates a satisfying experience that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe showcases the versatility and richness of satay.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Satay Skewers

Try using firm tofu or a variety of vegetables in place of chicken for a delicious vegetarian option. Marinate and grill just like the chicken for a satisfying alternative.

Thai Coconut Curry Chicken

Pair your satay with a rich and fragrant Thai coconut curry for a hearty meal that brings warmth and flavor together in one pot.

Grilled Shrimp Satay

Swap chicken for shrimp to create a beautiful seafood version of satay. The shrimp will absorb the marinade wonderfully and cook quickly on the grill.

Peanut Sauce Noodles

Use the peanut sauce as a dressing for cold noodles, adding in fresh vegetables and grilled chicken or tofu for a refreshing salad.

Satay Chicken Wraps

Transform the satay chicken into wraps by including fresh lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots, all drizzled with extra peanut sauce for a satisfying meal on the go.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Serve a tangy cucumber salad on the side to cut through the richness of the peanut sauce, offering a refreshing contrast to the flavorful chicken.