Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, casual dinner nights, or as an appetizer for special occasions. The tender grilled chicken paired with a creamy peanut sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that will impress family and friends alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With a simple marinade and quick grilling, this dish comes together in no time.
- Flavorful: The blend of spices and coconut milk in the chicken enhances its taste, while the peanut sauce adds a delicious twist.
- Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even at a barbecue – it fits every occasion perfectly.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden skewers
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Wooden skewers: Perfect for threading chicken pieces, allowing them to cook evenly on the grill.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly combining the ingredients in the peanut sauce without lumps.
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that smoky flavor and beautiful char marks on the chicken satay.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds (1kg) skinless and boneless chicken breast (sliced 1 inch wide x 4-5 inches length)
- 2 teaspoons Masaman curry paste (or red curry paste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1.5 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2.5 teaspoons sweet soy sauce
- 2.5 teaspoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/3 cup coconut milk
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste or Massaman curry paste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar or to taste
- 2 tablespoons ground peanut
- salt to taste
How to Make Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breast against the grain into pieces that are at least 1 inch wide.
- Mix in the marinade ingredients until all pieces are well coated.
- Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
- Add all ingredients for the peanut sauce to a saucepan.
- Using a whisk, quickly combine everything before placing on low heat.
- Continue whisking until all ingredients are well integrated.
- Once it starts to simmer, turn off the heat and sprinkle with ground peanuts.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Satay
- Remove marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
- Thread chicken onto wooden skewers lengthwise.
- Grill each skewer for about 4 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
Serve your delicious Thai Chicken Sate hot with peanut sauce and sliced cucumber on the side for added freshness! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit!
How to Serve Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
Serving Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tasty dish.
On a Platter
- Serve the chicken sate on a large platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Pair the sate with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Their freshness complements the rich flavors of the peanut sauce.
As Appetizers
- Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for bite-sized servings. This makes it perfect for parties or gatherings as finger food.
With Rice
- Serve alongside jasmine rice or coconut rice. The rice absorbs the flavors of the peanut sauce, creating a satisfying meal.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use crisp lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chicken sate and drizzled peanut sauce. This adds a refreshing crunch.
How to Perfect Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
To achieve the best results for Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes enhances flavor absorption and tenderness.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Start small if you’re unsure!
- Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try adding different herbs or spices to your peanut sauce for unique flavors, like lime zest or ginger.
- Serve Warm: Enjoying the chicken sate warm will enhance its flavor and texture, making every bite delicious.
Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
Complement your Thai Chicken Sate with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.
- Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that pairs perfectly with savory dishes, absorbing sauces beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet and creamy, this rice cooked in coconut milk adds a tropical twist to your meal.
- Thai Mango Salad: A refreshing salad made from green mangoes mixed with herbs, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables and served with a sweet chili dipping sauce offer a great crunch.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A zesty salad featuring cucumbers tossed in vinegar and sesame oil provides a fresh contrast.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory dishes, adding depth to your plate.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce offer a simple yet flavorful side dish option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating and grilling chicken can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken will result in bland flavors. Take the time to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
- Incorrect Skewering: If you don’t thread the meat properly, it may fall apart on the grill. Make sure to thread the chicken pieces lengthwise on the skewer for stability.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Grill it just until it’s tender and cooked through, about four minutes per side.
- Neglecting Peanut Sauce Consistency: If your peanut sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the chicken well. Adjust its consistency by adding a little water during cooking as needed.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Old spices or pastes can dull the flavor of your dish. Always check your ingredients for freshness before starting your recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
- If freezing, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container.
- It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, covering it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce.
What is Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce?
Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce is a popular dish featuring marinated grilled chicken served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce that offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Can I use other meats besides chicken?
Yes! You can substitute beef or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times according to the type of meat used.
How do I make my peanut sauce spicier?
To add more heat to your peanut sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chili flakes according to your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same marinade and cooking instructions for a delicious vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress!
Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
Enjoy flavorful Thai Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce at home! This easy recipe delivers deliciousness—try it today!
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast
- 2 teaspoons Masaman curry paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/3 cup coconut milk (for marinade)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup coconut milk (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar or to taste
- 2 tablespoons ground peanut
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Mix the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken slices. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the peanut sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a saucepan, heat on low until combined and simmering.
- Grill the chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Serve hot with peanut sauce and fresh vegetables.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg