Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

This chicken satay recipe is an easy way to prepare this popular Asian dish. Satay is a dish that consists of skewered pieces of meat that are grilled. This popular dish is most commonly served with a peanut sauce, but other sauces can be used as well.

In this recipe, I used chicken thighs and marinated it in coconut milk and a blend of spices. Then, the chicken pieces are skewered and grilled. A simple peanut sauce is prepared using lime, peanut butter, and coconut milk . Overall, I was happy with how easy this was to make and how the peanut sauce perfectly complements the chicken skewers. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay

Getting the chicken satay just right is all about the marinade and grilling technique. First, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight in the fridge will really deepen the flavors. The coconut milk not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a subtle sweetness. You can experiment with the spices in the marinade. Adding a bit of turmeric will give the chicken a beautiful golden color, while a touch of chili powder can add some heat. When it comes to skewering, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. If you prefer metal skewers, make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the chicken pieces. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks. Flip the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure they don’t stick and get that great char. Cooking time varies based on the size of your chicken pieces, but aim for about 10 to 15 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When serving chicken satay, presentation can make a big difference. Arrange the skewers on a large platter and drizzle some peanut sauce over the top for a nice visual appeal. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can be sprinkled on for added color and flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving the satay with a side of jasmine rice or coconut rice. Both options complement the peanut sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss together a refreshing cucumber salad with lime juice, sugar, and a pinch of salt. This adds a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. For drinks, a cold Thai iced tea or a light lager pairs well with the flavors of the dish. If you’re hosting a gathering, chicken satay can also be served as an appetizer. Just cut the skewers into smaller pieces and arrange them on a platter with dipping bowls of the peanut sauce. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy. Don’t forget to have some extra sauce on hand for dipping, as it can be a hit among everyone. Enjoy the experience of sharing this delicious dish with friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts will work, but they can dry out more easily than thighs. If you go that route, be sure to marinate them well and keep an eye on the grilling time.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re looking for a substitute, regular milk or almond milk can work, though the flavor will be different. For a closer match, try using a mix of heavy cream and a bit of water.

How should I store leftover chicken satay?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Making the marinade a day in advance is a great idea. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to marinate the chicken, and it will save you some prep time on cooking day.

What are some good sides to serve with chicken satay?

Pair your chicken satay with a fresh cucumber salad or some jasmine rice for a complete meal. You could also serve it with some grilled vegetables for a nice balance.

Chicken Satay

Liza Agbanlog

Tender chicken thighs marinated in creamy coconut milk and fragrant curry spices, skewered and grilled to smoky perfection. It's a flavor-packed delight you'll love.

5 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 5 servings

Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs cut in a half lengthwise
• 8 (about 8 inch) wooden skewers, or as needed, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Marinade

• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp honey
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

Sauce

• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 tbsp curry powder
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a large Ziploc bag, add together the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken and massage bag to ensure each piece is coated. Refrigerate and allow to marinade for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.
• Thread the chicken pieces through the skewers.
• Preheat grill or heat grill pan over medium high heat. Cook the chicken on the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through and juices run clear.

Sauce

• In a sauce pan, add all the sauce ingredients. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and season to taste with salt.

Notes

Recipe source: Easy Chicken Satay

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

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