Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce

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Juicy, smoky, and irresistibly flavorful—Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce brings the vibrant tastes of Southeast Asia right to your table. These golden grilled skewers are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and coconut milk, then charred to perfection. Paired with a creamy peanut sauce that’s sweet, salty, spicy, and nutty, it creates a balance of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, a cozy dinner, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers big-time flavor with surprisingly little effort. Serve it as a main course with rice or as an appetizer with fresh cucumber slices and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite across the globe.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce

This recipe is the ultimate fusion of comfort and exotic spice. The marinade transforms chicken into juicy, flavor-packed bites, while the peanut sauce brings it all together with rich, creamy goodness. It’s easy to prep ahead, fun to eat off a stick, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and customizable for spice level. Perfect for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or outdoor grilling nights.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Satay?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often preferred because they stay juicy and tender on the grill. But if you like leaner meat, boneless chicken breast works beautifully as well—just be careful not to overcook. Cut the chicken into even strips to ensure quick and uniform cooking. And don’t skip the marinating step—it’s key to locking in flavor and tenderness.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building its iconic taste. From the fragrant spices to the creamy richness of coconut milk, every component enhances the final flavor.

• Chicken (thighs or breasts): The base of the dish. Chicken thighs offer juicier results, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
• Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle tropical sweetness to the marinade.
• Soy Sauce: Infuses salty umami depth.
• Brown Sugar: Provides balance with a touch of sweetness.
• Curry Powder: Brings warm, earthy spice that defines the satay flavor.
• Turmeric: Offers color and a slightly bitter, grounding flavor.
• Garlic & Ginger: Freshly grated aromatics bring punchy, zesty character.
• Lime Juice: Adds acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
• Peanut Butter (for the sauce): The creamy base of the dipping sauce.
• Soy Sauce & Brown Sugar (for sauce): Continue the sweet and salty theme.
• Rice Vinegar: Cuts through the richness with acidity.
• Red Chili Flakes or Sriracha: Optional heat, depending on your preference.
• Water: Adjusts the sauce texture to make it smooth and dippable.

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How To Make the Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, turmeric, garlic, ginger, and lime juice. This is your flavor powerhouse.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut chicken into thin strips and place in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Make the Thai Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili flakes or sriracha, and a splash of water. Stir until smooth and warmed through. Adjust thickness as needed.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers. Try to keep the strips flat and evenly spaced for even grilling.

Step 5: Grill the Satay

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Baste with extra marinade if desired (discard after basting).

Step 6: Serve

Arrange the grilled chicken on a platter with cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, and the warm peanut sauce for dipping.

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Serving and Storing Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce

This dish is perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests. It typically feeds about 4 people as a main dish or 6-8 as an appetizer. Serve the skewers hot off the grill alongside a generous bowl of peanut sauce and a side of sliced cucumbers and bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.

Leftovers? Simply store the grilled chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave and warm the peanut sauce gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen it up.

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What to Serve With Chicken Satay?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Soft and fragrant, jasmine rice complements the bold flavors of satay and balances the spice of the peanut sauce.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Crisp cucumbers, a tangy vinegar dressing, and a touch of sugar create a refreshing contrast to the savory skewers.

Thai Mango Sticky Rice

If you want to round out the meal with something sweet, this coconut-infused dessert is the perfect finish.

Grilled Pineapple

The caramelized edges and natural sweetness of grilled pineapple pair beautifully with the smokiness of the chicken.

Peanut Noodles

Toss rice noodles with leftover sauce, veggies, and fresh herbs for a quick and tasty side or next-day lunch.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Colorful bell peppers, snow peas, and baby corn add crunch and nutrients to your plate.

Coconut Rice

A creamy, slightly sweet rice option that mirrors the coconut flavors in the marinade.

Edamame with Sea Salt

A light and protein-packed nibble that makes a great appetizer alongside your satay spread.

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Want More Skewer and Asian-Inspired Recipe Ideas?

If you enjoyed Chicken Satay with Easy Thai Peanut Sauce, you’ll definitely want to explore these other flavorful bites from the site:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a decadent seafood twist.
• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce when you’re craving bold Southern flavor.
• Classic Butter Chicken for rich and creamy Indian comfort food.
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad to keep things light and refreshing.
• Easy Veggie Patties if you’re looking for a meatless companion or appetizer.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or mild with the sauce? Did you try it with chicken breast or thigh?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and snack ideas on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good flavors!

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