Ultimate Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers with Irresistible Peanut Sauce

Welcome to a culinary adventure that brings together the best of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice: **Peanut Butter Chicken**. This incredible recipe features succulent, curry-marinated chicken, grilled to perfection on skewers, and served alongside a delightfully simple yet rich peanut sauce. It’s an explosion of flavor, surprisingly easy to prepare, and utilizes many ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Prepare to impress your taste buds and your family with this takeout-beating sensation!

A Note from the Author

Peanut Butter Chicken That Truly Beats Takeout!

I absolutely adore meals that come together effortlessly with minimal fuss and mostly kitchen staples. This Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is precisely that! Beyond the star ingredient, chicken – whether fresh or thawed frozen works wonderfully – you’ll find yourself relying on familiar pantry items to create something truly special. The inspiration for this dish struck after making my Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps countless times. The peanut dressing from that recipe was an unexpected hit, even converting my notoriously picky kids into peanut sauce enthusiasts. While technically more of a dressing, its balance of flavors proved to be the ideal foundation for a vibrant chicken marinade.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. The rich, aromatic curry marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavor, while the accompanying peanut sauce adds a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy finish that’s utterly addictive. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for entertaining. Get ready to add this to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Chicken Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of curry in the marinade and a sweet-savory peanut sauce creates a dynamic and irresistible taste profile.
• Effortlessly Easy: With straightforward steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors for that smoky char or cooking indoors on a stovetop, this recipe adapts beautifully.
• Family-Friendly: The delicious flavors appeal to both adults and children, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight family dinner.
• Meal Prep Dream: Marinate the chicken ahead of time, and the sauce can be prepared days in advance, simplifying your cooking process.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and customizable with fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice you can feel good about.

Essential Ingredients for Your Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers

Crafting these delectable skewers requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients for both the marinade and the peanut sauce. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is vital:

• Chicken: The star of the show! Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs work exceptionally well. Thighs offer a slightly richer flavor and stay incredibly moist, while breasts are lean and quick-cooking. Cut them into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and easy skewering.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: This is a crucial ingredient for the marinade, lending a luxurious creaminess and rich flavor that balances the curry spices. Opt for full-fat to achieve the best texture and depth of flavor.
• Curry Powder: A blend of aromatic spices, curry powder (yellow curry powder is typically used for a milder, more fragrant profile) provides the foundational taste for our marinade. Adjust the quantity to your preference – add more for a bolder curry punch, or less for a subtle hint.
• Red Curry Paste: For an extra layer of authentic Thai-inspired flavor and a gentle heat, red curry paste is a fantastic addition. Brands like Thai Kitchen are widely available and provide consistent results.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth and savory notes to both the chicken marinade and the peanut sauce. Using a low-sodium soy sauce allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, seasoning to taste.
• Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar/Honey: A touch of sweetness helps to balance the savory and spicy elements in both the marinade and the sauce. Granulated sugar for the marinade and brown sugar or honey for the sauce provide a lovely caramelization and smooth sweetness. If you prefer a more natural sweetener in the sauce, honey is an excellent alternative.
• Garlic and Ginger: While not explicitly listed for the marinade in the original snippet, fresh garlic and grated ginger would significantly boost the flavor profile and are highly recommended for any good curry marinade. Grating ginger ensures maximum flavor release.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: The heart of our irresistible sauce! Choose a smooth, creamy peanut butter for a velvety texture. Natural peanut butter can also be used, but you might need to adjust the consistency with a little extra water.
• Olive Oil: Used in the peanut sauce to emulsify and add richness, and also for cooking the chicken if using a stovetop method.
• Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy brightness to the peanut sauce, cutting through its richness and adding a delightful zing.
• Water: Used to thin the peanut sauce to your desired consistency.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for both the chicken and the sauce, bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
• Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who love a bit of heat, cayenne pepper in the peanut sauce offers a customizable spicy kick. Red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce are also great options.

How To Make Peanut Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these flavorful Peanut Butter Chicken skewers is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal:

1. Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor: Cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a bowl or a large resealable plastic bag, whisk together the coconut milk, curry powder, red curry paste, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. For the best flavor penetration, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, up to 8 hours. The longer the marinating time, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be!
2. Prepare the Irresistible Peanut Sauce: While your chicken is marinating, assemble the quick and easy peanut sauce. In a small, powerful blender (a mini Blendtec or Twister Jar works perfectly), combine creamy peanut butter, honey (or brown sugar), olive oil, water, rice vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a tiny bit more water until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
3. Skewer and Grill to Perfection: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 10-30 minutes beforehand. This vital step prevents them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful sear marks. Grill the skewers for 2-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. (It will rise to 165°F as it rests.)
4. Stovetop Method (Alternative): No grill? No problem! Heat 1.5 teaspoons of oil in a very large, nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skewers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through to 160°F internal temperature.
5. Rest, Serve, and Savor: Once cooked, remove the chicken skewers to a clean plate. Tent them loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and moist chicken. Serve the hot chicken skewers with generous dollops of the prepared peanut sauce on the side. For an extra flourish and burst of freshness, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of finely chopped peanuts. Enjoy immediately, perhaps over a bed of fluffy coconut rice or basmati rice!

Peanut Sauce Chicken Pro Tips for Success

Elevate your Peanut Butter Chicken with these expert tips:

• Oil Your Grill Grates Properly: To prevent sticking and achieve a perfect sear, lightly oil your grill grates before cooking. The best way to do this is to fold a paper towel into a small square, saturate it with a neutral cooking oil (like vegetable or canola), and, using tongs, rub it over the hot grates just before placing the chicken.
• Don’t Skimp on Coconut Milk: Even a small amount of full-fat coconut milk in the marinade adds essential fat and creaminess, contributing to the chicken’s tenderness and flavor. If you have leftovers, put them to good use in a batch of creamy coconut rice – a perfect accompaniment!
• Monitor Cook Time Closely: Chicken pieces cut into 1-inch cubes cook relatively quickly. On a medium-high grill, they typically need only 4 to 8 minutes total, turning once halfway through. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so keep a watchful eye.
• Always Check Internal Temperature: The safest and most accurate way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is by using a cooking thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) at the thickest part of the chicken. As the chicken rests, its temperature will continue to rise to a safe 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness and Spice: The peanut sauce recipe, as written, is delightfully sweet, which many love. However, if you prefer less sweetness, start with a smaller amount of honey and add more gradually until it suits your taste. For an extra kick, don’t hesitate to incorporate more cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite chili garlic sauce.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: This small step makes a big difference! Soaking wooden skewers in water for 10-30 minutes before threading the chicken prevents them from charring and breaking apart on the grill, ensuring a smooth grilling experience.

Serving Suggestions for Peanut Butter Chicken

Peanut Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some popular options to complete your meal:

• Coconut or Basmati Rice: The classic pairing! Fluffy coconut rice adds a fragrant, subtly sweet complement to the savory chicken and rich peanut sauce. Plain basmati rice is also an excellent choice, providing a neutral base to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles, rice vermicelli, or even ramen for a heartier, comforting meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or green beans add a fresh, healthy crunch.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: A simple green salad with a sesame ginger dressing or a vibrant coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce cups, drizzled with extra peanut sauce.
• Fresh Garnishes: Don’t forget the finishing touches! Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and a wedge of lime for squeezing truly elevate the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated for up to 8 hours in advance, and the peanut sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to a week. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or entertaining.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem! The recipe includes instructions for cooking the chicken on the stovetop in a large, nonstick pan. You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Can I use a different type of nut butter?

While peanut butter gives this dish its signature flavor, you could experiment with almond butter or cashew butter for a slightly different taste profile. Be aware that the flavor and consistency will change, so you might need to adjust other ingredients in the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level is fully customizable! The curry paste provides a mild background warmth, and cayenne pepper in the sauce is optional. You can add more or less according to your preference, or omit it entirely for a mild dish.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cut into cubes. Press the tofu to remove excess water before marinating for best results.

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★★★★★
5 from 2 votes

Peanut Butter Chicken

By Chelsea Lords

Peanut butter chicken skewers marinated in coconut curry and grilled to perfection. Served with a sweet and simple peanut sauce. Packed with flavor, easy to make, and made mostly from pantry staples.

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Marinating Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 3 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

• Grill or a large, nonstick pan for stovetop cooking
• Aluminum foil
• Small blender (a mini Blendtec/Twister Jar is recommended)
• Wooden skewers (if grilling)
• Meat thermometer

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon yellow curry powder
• 2 teaspoons red curry paste (Thai Kitchen recommended)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1-1/2 teaspoons oil if cooking on stovetop (e.g., olive, avocado, or vegetable oil)
• Toppings as desired (see note 1)

Peanut Sauce/Dressing

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons honey (start with less if you want a less sweet sauce)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons water
• 1-1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1-1/2 tablespoons soy sauce (can be reduced-sodium)
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, depending on heat preference)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Accompaniment

Serve over cooked coconut or plain basmati rice (see note 2)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and place in a large resealable plastic bag or container. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, red curry paste, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour over the chicken. Knead the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for best flavor.
2. Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high (approx. 400°F/200°C). If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for 10-30 minutes to prevent burning (see note 3). Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill for 2–4 minutes per side (typically a total of 6-8 minutes) or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when tested with a cooking thermometer. Remove skewers to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
3. Stovetop Method (Alternative): Alternatively, add 1.5 teaspoons of oil to a very large, nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the skewers (in batches, without overcrowding the pan) and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Remove to a plate, cover with foil, and allow to rest 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a small, powerful blender, combine creamy peanut butter, honey (adjust to your sweetness preference, see note 4), olive oil, water, rice vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, optional cayenne pepper, and salt. Blend until completely smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a tiny bit more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Refrigerate the sauce while finishing the chicken and any other accompaniments.
5. Optional Coconut Rice: To make coconut rice, combine 1 cup basmati rice, 1 and 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Stir, place over high heat, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the rice, and simmer for 13–18 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, keeping covered, and let stand for 10–15 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
6. Serve and Garnish: If preparing rice, divide it evenly among plates. Top with the cooked chicken skewers. Serve with a generous side of the peanut sauce for dipping. If desired, garnish the chicken and rice with fresh cilantro, fresh lime wedges for squeezing, and crushed peanuts for added texture. Enjoy immediately!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Recommended Toppings: For an enhanced experience, we highly recommend garnishing with fresh lime juice, finely chopped fresh cilantro, and crushed peanuts. These additions provide a burst of freshness and texture.

Note 2: Rice Options: This dish is fantastic with either plain or coconut basmati rice. The instructions above detail how to make coconut basmati rice. If you prefer plain basmati rice, here’s a simple method:

• Measure 1 cup basmati rice and rinse it thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear.
• Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and cover with water to soak for about 5–10 minutes. This helps the grains cook more evenly.
• While the rice is soaking, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
• Once the water is boiling, drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Cook without reducing the heat for 5 minutes.
• Drain the rice using the fine-mesh sieve, then return it to the hot pot (off the heat), cover, and let it steam for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Note 3: Soaking Wooden Skewers: Always remember to soak wooden skewers in water for 10–30 minutes before threading the chicken and grilling. This crucial step prevents them from catching fire or charring excessively on the grill, ensuring your food stays put and your cooking is safe.

Note 4: Adjusting Peanut Sauce Sweetness/Spice: The peanut sauce recipe is designed for a balance of sweet and savory, but it leans towards sweet. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 2 tablespoons of honey and taste before adding more. To add more heat, incorporate extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes during blending.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 4 servings | Calories: 316 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18.6 g | Protein: 29.6 g | Fat: 21.3 g | Cholesterol: 82.7 mg | Sodium: 180.5 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 15.9 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.