peanut butter chicken recipe
The Best peanut butter chicken recipe
I love this recipe because it’s a great way to use up extra chicken, whether it’s from roasting a whole bird or just leftovers from another meal. The peanut butter base is packed with protein and healthy fats, which keeps me full longer than most sauces do. Plus, the sauce is naturally sweetened with honey or brown sugar, so it’s not too heavy on refined sugar. My family loves it because it’s easy to customize—we sometimes add a little sriracha for heat, or we swap out the chicken for tofu if we’re watching our portions. It’s a dish that feels special when you serve it at a holiday dinner, but it’s also just as good when you’re cooking for a regular weeknight. The kids will eat it straight from the pan, and the adults will appreciate the depth of flavor without any fuss. It’s that kind of recipe that makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like a little treat.
Peanut Butter Chicken
A flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a rich peanut butter sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Crushed peanuts
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. -
2
In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Set aside. -
3
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 mins). Remove from skillet and set aside. -
4
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, garlic, and ginger. Stir until smooth. -
5
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens. -
6
Return chicken to the skillet, coat well in sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. -
7
Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed peanuts. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or wok
- Kitchen shears
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or reducing honey and increasing sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Peanut Butter Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Chicken
What is the best way to prepare the chicken for peanut butter sauce?
To prepare the chicken for peanut butter sauce, start by cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder or onion powder. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little bit of lime juice or vinegar for about 30 minutes before cooking. Then, pan-fry or bake the chicken until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy.
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Can I use store-bought marinade or sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinades or sauces as a shortcut, but for the best flavor, homemade is recommended. If you choose to use a store-bought option, opt for something like a teriyaki or hoisin-based sauce mixed with peanut butter and a bit of soy sauce. Just adjust the seasoning to taste and ensure it has enough sweetness and richness to complement the peanut butter flavor.
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How do I ensure the peanut butter sauce is smooth and not too thick?
To make a smooth peanut butter sauce, blend the ingredients thoroughly. Start with a small amount of peanut butter and gradually add more, stirring constantly. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or coconut milk while blending. If the sauce is too thick, you can also mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry (mixed with water) to loosen it up. Taste and adjust with salt, sugar, or soy sauce as needed.
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What are some variations or substitutions I can make for the recipe?
There are several ways to customize this peanut butter chicken recipe. You can swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a lighter option. For extra veggies, add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh ginger. For a vegetarian twist, use a plant-based peanut butter and ensure your sauce is vegan-friendly. You can also try a coconut milk-based sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
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How long should I cook the chicken and how do I know it’s done?
For pan-frying, cook the chicken in batches over medium-high heat until it’s golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To ensure it’s fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. It’s safe to eat when it reaches this temperature.
