Introduction

Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Thai cuisine. This popular street food features marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, flavorful peanut sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or a meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken:
– 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips

Marinade:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– A pinch of salt

Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1-2 teaspoons chili sauce (adjust to taste)

For Serving:
– Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
– Fresh lime wedges
– Chopped cilantro (optional)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this Thai Chicken Satay is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes the time required to marinate the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes on the grill or stovetop.
Total Time: The overall time, including prep, marination, and cooking, is around 40-50 minutes.
Yield: This recipe typically serves 4 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or family dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful experience of making Thai Chicken Satay at home!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken strips to the mixture, ensuring they are completely covered. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

3. Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Prepare the Grill or Pan

Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, ensure it’s properly oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers evenly, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

6. Cook the Satay

Place the skewers on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

7. Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili flakes. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and warm, stirring frequently.

8. Serve

Place the grilled chicken satay on a serving platter alongside a bowl of peanut sauce for dipping.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cucumber salad and lime wedges for a traditional accompaniment.

Storage

Leftover marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cooked satay can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Cooking Method Variations

The chicken satay can also be baked in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes if you prefer not to grill.

Vegan Option

Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegan version and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.

Cook techniques

Marinating Chicken

To infuse the chicken with flavor, it is essential to marinate it for at least one hour. This helps to tenderize the meat and enhances the overall taste.

Skewering

Use soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning during grilling. Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

Grilling

Cook the skewers over medium-high heat for the best results. Turn occasionally to achieve even cooking and a nice char on all sides.

Preparing Peanut Sauce

Creating the peanut sauce involves combining ingredients such as peanut butter and coconut milk. Heat gently to blend flavors without boiling, ensuring a smooth texture.

FAQ

Can I use other meats for satay?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but it can be marinated overnight if desired.

What can I serve with satay?

Satay is commonly served with rice, fresh vegetables, or a crisp salad to complement the flavors.

Can I make the peanut sauce in advance?

Yes, peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just stir before using.

Are there any alternatives to coconut milk?

If you do not have coconut milk, you can use almond milk or another creamy alternative, but the flavor may vary.

Conclusion

The Thai Chicken Satay with peanut sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender marinated chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, making it perfect for appetizers or main servings. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also brings an authentic taste of Thai cuisine to your table. Whether you’re having a casual gathering or a special celebration, chicken satay promises to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Pair your chicken satay with grilled shrimp skewers marinated in a zesty lime and garlic mixture. This combination provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy peanut sauce.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Serve crispy vegetable spring rolls alongside the satay for a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavors. They make for an excellent appetizer that complements the main dish.

Coconut Rice

Opt for coconut rice as a side dish to enhance the tropical flavors of your meal. The sweet, aromatic rice goes wonderfully with the savory chicken satay.

Thai Cucumber Salad

Accompany your dish with a crunchy Thai cucumber salad dressed in vinegar, sugar, and chili for a tangy, refreshing addition that balances the richness of the satay.

Peanut Sautéed Noodles

For a heartier meal, consider serving the chicken satay with peanut sautéed noodles. The nutty flavors tie in perfectly with the peanut sauce, creating a cohesive dish.

Mango Sticky Rice

End your culinary experience on a sweet note with mango sticky rice. This classic Thai dessert adds a luscious finish to your feast with its sweet coconut infused rice and ripe mango.