Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken skewers with a rich and flavorful peanut sauce. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a delicious snack, this recipe brings the vibrant tastes of Thailand to your table. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a creamy dipping sauce that has just the right amount of spice, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
• For the Chicken Satay:
• How to Make Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Grill
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Presentation Tips
• How to Perfect Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other meats for satay?
• How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce?
• How long does it take to cook?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and herbs in the marinade and dipping sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, light meal, or pair it with rice and salads for a complete feast.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Both the peanut sauce and chicken marinade can be prepared in advance, saving you time on busy days.
• Healthier Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter, this dish offers nutritious benefits without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce successfully, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Medium bowl
• Bamboo skewers
• Grill (charcoal or gas)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating a smooth marinade and peanut sauce quickly and easily.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients while allowing enough space to whisk thoroughly.
• Bamboo skewers: Necessary for grilling the chicken evenly while keeping it juicy and tender.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup hot water
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Chicken Satay:

• 1 stalk lemongrass, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons freshly minced garlic (about 2 medium cloves)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced into ½-inch strips lengthwise
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:
1. Combine ½ cup creamy peanut butter with ¼ cup hot water.
2. Stir in the rest of the ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime)
– 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced.
3. Season with kosher salt to taste. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Use a blender or food processor to blend:
1. Combine:
– 1 stalk of roughly chopped lemongrass,
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil,
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce,
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar,
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime),
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce,
– 2 teaspoons freshly minced garlic,
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric,
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander,
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha.

Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until smooth.

Next:
– Place chicken strips in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl.
– Pour in the marinade and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, turning occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

If using a charcoal grill:
– Light one chimney full of charcoal.
– When covered with gray ash, pour it out and spread evenly over the coal grate.
– Set cooking grate in place; cover and preheat for about five minutes.
– Clean and oil grilling grate before cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Thread marinated chicken onto soaked bamboo skewers.
– Grill each skewer for about three minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
– Once done, transfer to a platter and let rest for five minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm chicken satay skewers alongside your spicy peanut dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!

This delectable Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is sure to impress your guests!

How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Serving Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce can elevate any gathering or meal. This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides and garnishes that complement its bold flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Add chopped cilantro or mint for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze.
• Chili Flakes: Offer chili flakes for guests who enjoy an extra kick.

Accompaniments

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the spice of the satay.
• Jasmine Rice: Fragrant jasmine rice makes a perfect base to soak up the peanut sauce.
• Pickled Vegetables: Sweet and tangy pickled veggies enhance the overall flavor profile.

Presentation Tips

• Skewers on a Platter: Present skewers neatly arranged on a platter for an inviting display.
• Dipping Bowls: Serve peanut sauce in small bowls for individual dipping.

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How to Perfect Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

For the best results when making Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Well: Let the chicken marinate for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible, to maximize flavor.
• Soak Skewers: Always soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Preheat Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding chicken; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and ensures even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers to allow heat circulation for even cooking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this keeps it juicy and tender.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify Sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level in both the chicken marinade and peanut sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Pair your Thai Chicken Satay with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy, sweet coconut rice complements the savory flavors of satay beautifully.
2. Thai Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in vinegar and sugar provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls filled with veggies add crunch and texture to your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
5. Mango Salad: A sweet mango salad adds brightness and sweetness, balancing spicy elements.
6. Peanut Noodles: Noodles tossed in peanut sauce echo the flavors of your main dish while adding heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow at least one hour for the best results.
• Ignoring the soaking of skewers: If you forget to soak your bamboo skewers, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for 30 minutes before using.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The Sriracha can make the sauce quite spicy. Taste and adjust according to your heat preference.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for about 3 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
• Forgetting to season properly: A little salt can enhance flavors significantly. Taste your peanut sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover satay and sauce in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

• Freeze separately in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; the sauce lasts about 1 month.

Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce:

Can I use other meats for satay?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or tofu for different flavors.

How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also add more peanut butter to balance the heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight and make the peanut sauce up to two weeks ahead.

What should I serve with Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Pair it with jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to cook?

Grilling typically takes about 6-8 minutes in total after marinating.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bold flavors make it a perfect appetizer or light meal. Feel free to customize the spices or serve with various sides like rice or salads. Try making this dish at your next gathering!