Peanut butter chicken is one of those meals that’s both flavorful and comforting. Its rich, savory peanut sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, creating a dish that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a new chicken recipe to impress guests or a quick dinner for the family, this dish does the trick. Personally, I find the combination of peanut butter and chicken irresistible, with the added touch of the sauce elevating this dish to a whole new level.
This peanut butter chicken recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions—whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying a casual dinner with friends. The peanut sauce offers a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it ideal for weeknight meals when time is limited but you want something that feels a bit special.
How to Choose the Right Chicken for This Recipe
When it comes to creating the best peanut butter chicken, choosing high-quality chicken is key. For this dish, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Both options work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, especially when cooked quickly on the stovetop.
Fresh chicken is always preferred, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw it properly to avoid extra moisture in the pan. This step ensures that your peanut butter chicken will have the perfect texture and won’t end up soggy.
Seasoning Your Peanut Butter Chicken for Maximum Flavor
The seasoning is what makes this peanut butter chicken recipe stand out. You want to keep the focus on the peanut sauce, so the chicken itself should be seasoned simply. Salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder are perfect for this dish. For a more elevated flavor, adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes will give it a slight heat that complements the richness of the peanut sauce without overpowering it.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and How to Use It Effectively
To make this peanut butter chicken recipe as easy as possible, you’ll need the right equipment:
- Nonstick Skillet: A large nonstick skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken. It prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Make sure to heat the skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot before adding the chicken. This technique gives the chicken a beautiful sear without drying it out.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a large white bowl to mix the peanut butter sauce ingredients together. This makes it easier to whisk everything until smooth, ensuring a well-blended, creamy sauce.
- Spatula or Tongs: A silicone spatula or a set of tongs is your best friend when it comes to flipping the chicken pieces without tearing them. If using tongs, make sure they’re long enough to prevent oil splatter.
Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into the recipe itself. This peanut butter chicken recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Peanut Butter Chicken
Peanut butter chicken recipe is a delightful combination of rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken that never fails to impress. It's quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish brings comfort and excitement to the table, making it a family favorite!
Ingredients
For Peanut Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
For the Peanut Butter Sauce:
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- ½ cup coconut milk or water (to thin the sauce)
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion, red bell pepper, and broccoli. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a large white bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Slowly add the coconut milk or water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth, creamy, and slightly pourable.
4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat everything evenly.
5. Serve: Transfer the peanut butter chicken to a large serving dish or portion it out into meal prep containers. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve over rice or noodles, or enjoy with a side of steamed broccoli or Thai peanut noodles.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 450Total Fat: 30gCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 32g
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
This peanut butter chicken recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Rice or Noodles: Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or even noodles for a complete meal.
- Mango Cucumber Salsa: Add a fresh, fruity salsa to balance out the richness of the peanut butter sauce.
- Broccoli or Roasted Vegetables: Lightly steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli, red onion, or bell peppers complement the creamy sauce.
For a Thai-inspired twist, you can also serve this dish alongside Thai peanut noodles or use it as a protein-packed topping for a fresh salad.
Useful Cooking Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your peanut butter chicken turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken thighs are more forgiving, but if you’re using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them. They can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your peanut butter sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking.
- Make It Ahead: This peanut butter chicken is great for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner later in the week.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, cilantro, and veggies can elevate the dish, adding brightness and depth of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid any hiccups while preparing this peanut butter chicken recipe, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Using Low-Quality Peanut Butter: For a smooth, creamy sauce, it’s best to use a high-quality, natural peanut butter. Avoid brands that have added sugars or oils, as they can alter the flavor.
- Skipping the Garnish: Don’t skip the chopped peanuts and cilantro garnish! They add a crunchy texture and a fresh, herbal note that takes the dish to the next level.
- Not Seasoning the Chicken: Although the peanut butter sauce is packed with flavor, seasoning the chicken properly with salt, pepper, and garlic ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced.
Conclusion: A Saucy, Flavorful Dish for All Occasions
Peanut butter chicken is a fantastic option for a weeknight meal or when you want to prepare something quick but full of flavor. The rich peanut butter sauce, tender chicken, and crisp veggies make this dish a hit with both adults and children, even the pickiest eaters. It’s simple to prepare, pantry-friendly, and takes less than 30 minutes to cook.
Whether you’re enjoying this peanut butter chicken recipe for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. Add a side of rice, noodles, or a refreshing mango cucumber salsa to complete the meal. With its addicting flavor and easy-to-make nature, this peanut chicken recipe will quickly become a go-to in your household.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.