Thai Peanut Chicken

Thai Peanut Chicken is a tasty and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of peanut sauce with tender chicken. This dish is not only full of flavor but also easy to make. You can serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. The creamy peanut sauce provides a perfect blend of sweetness and heat, making every bite delicious. Whether you are cooking for your family or having friends over, this dish will surely impress everyone. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dinner that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Let’s get started on making this wonderful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Peanut Chicken

You will love Thai Peanut Chicken for its amazing flavors and simple preparation. The peanut sauce is creamy and savory, providing a wonderful taste that pairs perfectly with chicken. This recipe is quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it is customizable; you can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha. It’s also a great way to enjoy a taste of Thailand at home without needing to go out. This dish is not just satisfying but also brings a little excitement to your dinner table.

How to Make Thai Peanut Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced)
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons peanuts (chopped, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Steamed rice or noodles (for serving)

Step-by-Step Directions

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side without moving, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and coconut milk to the skillet. Whisk together and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and heated through. Stir in lime juice and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness if desired.

Return sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the peanut sauce. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish generously with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.

How to Serve Thai Peanut Chicken

Serve Thai Peanut Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. You can add extra garnishes like chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. This dish can be a wonderful main course and pairs well with a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables.

How to Store Thai Peanut Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This chicken can last for about 3-4 days when stored properly. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips for the Best Thai Peanut Chicken

For the best Thai Peanut Chicken, use fresh ginger and garlic for a more vibrant flavor. Adjust the sriracha to your taste if you prefer a milder or spicier dish. Don’t skimp on the garnishes; they add both flavor and a nice visual touch. Finally, make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Recipe Variations

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for more nutrition. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with tofu. You can also try using almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Both work well!

What can I substitute for sriracha?
If you don’t have sriracha, you can use any hot sauce you like. Just adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.

Can I freeze Thai Peanut Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in an airtight container. Just make sure to thaw and reheat it properly before serving.

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