Introduction to Chicken Satay
Indulge in this Asian-inspired recipe for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce. Juicy chicken skewers are grilled and paired with homemade peanut satay sauce for a flavor-packed appetizer or main course!
This is the best chicken satay recipe when you’re craving your favorite Thai restaurant but don’t want to order take-out. It is super simple to prepare making it a great party app or quick family dinner. Known for its rich, spicy-sweet flavors, this dish is a combination of juicy marinated chicken dipped in creamy peanut satay sauce.
Traditional chicken satay is typically grilled or barbequed which makes it extra delicious. Grilling the chicken skewers over an open flame adds a smoky charred flavor and caramelizes the marinade, enhancing the overall taste, though you can also easily make them on a grill pan. Impress dinner guests by serving this chicken satay recipe Thai style garnished with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender & Juicy. The flavorful marinade makes the chicken satay perfectly tender and juicy when cooked and is bursting with Thai flavors.
- Quick & Easy. This recipe for chicken satay has easy prep and only 20 minutes of cooking time!
- Low-Carb. We stick to quality ingredients (including natural peanut butter and sugar-free maple syrup) to keep this dish low-carb and keto-friendly. It’s naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as well!
Ingredients Overview
Below are the ingredients you will need to make this chicken satay skewers recipe. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page to see the exact amounts for each ingredient.
- Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest skewers. Alternatively, you can use chicken breast or tenderloins.
- Olive Oil: Perfect neutral oil for grilling the chicken and enhances the dish’s flavors. Feel free to swap for your preferred cooking oil if you want.
- Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves or buy pre-minced garlic from the grocery store for easy prep.
- Turmeric: Adds a warming, earthy flavor and gives the chicken satay marinade its signature vibrant yellow hue.
- Sugar-Free Maple Syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness to the chicken and sauce without the carbs.
- Coconut Milk: Gives the peanut sauce an extra creamy texture and slight sweetness. Use the full-fat kind from the can for the richest flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to control the seasoning and flavor.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives the chicken marinade and peanut sauce the zestiest flavor.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy, natural peanut butter is best for the base of the dipping sauce so it is smooth and dippable. Be sure to choose a brand that doesn’t include added sugars to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes add a kick and depth to the other flavors.
Cooking the Chicken Satay
Grill the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, thread 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer, folding each piece over to adhere to the skewer. Then preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill pan lightly with oil. Grill chicken skewers on each side for about 5-6 minutes until fully cooked through. Transfer the skewers to a plate to cool while preparing the sauce.
Make the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar-free maple syrup, salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Serve chicken satay skewers with a drizzle of peanut sauce, a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a bit of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
This chicken satay recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days while the sauce by itself can usually last about a week in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350ºF for 5-10 minutes or on the grill for a few minutes on each side for the best texture. You could freeze the chicken (allow to cool completely first) in an airtight container up to 3 months. Freeze it in the sauce or with the sauce separate–Whatever works best for you. You may need to thin the sauce out after thawing, so just stir in a bit of water while reheating.
Tips and Tricks
- Allow the chicken time to marinate to give it the best flavor. The longer it sits, the better the taste!
- Serve the peanut sauce right away to avoid it thickening. If the sauce sits and gets too thick, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out.
- Make the dish allergen-friendly by using gluten-free soy sauce or coconut liquid aminos. This chicken satay recipe uses coconut milk so it is already dairy-free!
Chicken Satay FAQ
- Can I make this without a grill? No grill, no problem! You can also cook this easy chicken satay recipe on a grill pan on the stove or in the oven. To prepare on the stovetop, cook as directed, substituting a grill pan for the grill. To bake the chicken, prepare the recipe as outlined, then bake the satay chicken skewers at 400ºF in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until slightly browned on the edges. Be sure to flip the skewers halfway through the cooking time.
- Are there variations to this recipe? Yes! If you want a spicier sauce for this Thai chicken satay recipe, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of red curry paste or add extra red pepper flakes. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or brown sugar to the marinade and the peanut sauce. You can also swap the chicken for beef, lamb, or pork.
More Recipes with Great Marinades
For more delicious recipes, consider trying other dishes with great marinades.
Related Topics
Appetizer, Chicken & Turkey, Dinner, Grilling Recipes, Recipe, chicken, coconut milk, garlic, lime juice, maple syrup, peanut butter, soy sauce.
