If you’re looking to impress at your next BBQ, this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a must-try. Juicy, flavorful chicken skewers are marinated in a fragrant Thai-inspired blend and grilled to perfection. Served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce, this dish is nutty, savory, and absolutely irresistible!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken Satay Skewers:
- For the Peanut Sauce:
- For Serving:
- How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
- Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
- Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Pair with Fresh Vegetables
- Add a Flavorful Salad
- Serve with Rice or Noodles
- Garnish Creatively
- How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Reheating Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?
- Can I use other meats for this recipe?
- What should I serve with Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
- How do I make Chicken Satay healthier?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a breeze.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and spices brings bold Thai flavors that elevate your meal.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or even meal prep. This recipe fits any occasion!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it as an appetizer or main dish—everyone will love the juicy chicken paired with the creamy peanut sauce.
- Customizable Options: Use different cuts of chicken or skip the skewers altogether for easy grilling.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Grill or grill pan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for threading the marinated chicken, they help create those classic satay shapes.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is necessary for marinating the chicken evenly.
- Medium saucepan: Used to prepare the peanut sauce; a good size ensures even heating without spills.
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect charred flavor; choose one based on your cooking preference.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Satay Skewers:
- 1/3 cup coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs, breasts, or tenders), cut into 1-inch strips
- 16 skewers
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Serving:
- Chopped roasted peanuts
- Sliced red chilis
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro leaves
How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper until smooth. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring to a simmer while stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers:
– Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
– Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers while discarding any leftover marinade.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan:
– Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to prevent sticking.
– Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side or until lightly charred and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the chicken satay skewers warm with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced red chilis, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Serving Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce can elevate any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.
Pair with Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumber Slices – Crisp and refreshing, cucumber slices provide a cool contrast to the savory satay.
- Carrot Sticks – Crunchy carrot sticks add a sweet flavor that pairs well with the nutty peanut sauce.
- Bell Pepper Strips – Colorful bell peppers bring extra crunch and sweetness to the plate.
Add a Flavorful Salad
- Thai Cabbage Salad – A tangy salad with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing complements the chicken’s flavors.
- Mango Salad – Sweet mango mixed with lime juice and herbs offers a tropical twist that brightens the meal.
Serve with Rice or Noodles
- Jasmine Rice – Classic jasmine rice pairs beautifully, soaking up the rich peanut sauce.
- Rice Noodles – Light rice noodles tossed in sesame oil can be a delightful base for your chicken satay.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Herbs – Top your dish with fresh cilantro or mint for an aromatic finish.
- Chili Flakes – Sprinkle chili flakes for an extra kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
To achieve the best Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, consider these helpful tips:
- Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors.
- Use High Heat – Cooking on high heat ensures juicy chicken with a perfect charred exterior.
- Soak Skewers – If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning during grilling.
- Check Doneness – Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness.
- Experiment with Proteins – Try using shrimp or tofu for variety while maintaining the same marinade flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Pairing sides with your Chicken Satay can enhance your dining experience. Here are some top choices:
- Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice adds subtle sweetness that complements the savory satay perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies grilled until tender brings color and nutrition to your plate.
- Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a light, crunchy side option.
- Peanut Slaw – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and peanuts echoes the flavors of the peanut sauce for harmony in taste.
- Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and umami, balancing out the meal’s richness.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries made from sweet potatoes deliver sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce even more delicious.
- Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken enough time can result in bland flavor. For best results, marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.
- Using Cold Chicken: Grilling cold chicken directly from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Allow the chicken to reach room temperature before grilling for more consistent results.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill at once can cause steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches to ensure each skewer gets enough heat and space.
- Ignoring Soaking Skewers: Not soaking wooden skewers can result in burning during grilling. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent this issue.
- Undercooking the Chicken: Serving undercooked chicken can lead to food safety issues. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Freeze cooked chicken satay in a freezer-safe container.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1 minute until warmed.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring your curry paste is gluten-free.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
What should I serve with Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, fresh salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I make Chicken Satay healthier?
Use skinless chicken breast and reduce the amount of peanut butter in the sauce. You can also serve it with vegetable sticks instead of rice.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is not only flavorful but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, you can customize it by adding different spices or serving it with various sides. Try making this delightful dish at your next gathering!
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Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 skewers) 1x
Description
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is the ultimate dish to elevate your next BBQ. These juicy chicken skewers are marinated in a rich, aromatic blend of coconut milk and spices, then grilled to perfection. Paired with a creamy, nutty peanut sauce, this dish brings bold Thai flavors to your table, making it an irresistible choice for family gatherings or casual dinners. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, Chicken Satay is a versatile crowd-pleaser that can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs, breasts, or tenders)
- 1/3 cup coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 16 skewers
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Chopped roasted peanuts
- Sliced red chilis
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper. Add chicken strips and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make peanut sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Prepare skewers: Soak wooden skewers if using; thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill chicken: Preheat grill over medium-high heat and grill skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Serve warm: Enjoy with peanut sauce on the side and garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg