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Chicken Satay Recipe Easy Homemade Peanut Sauce for Perfect Grilling

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This chicken satay recipe features juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs paired with a creamy, homemade peanut sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for family dinners and weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened preferred)
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Warm water as needed
  • Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
  • Fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, turmeric, coriander, cumin, vegetable oil, and lime juice. Whisk until sugar dissolves and spices blend well.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours.
  3. Soak skewers: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Make the peanut sauce: In a small saucepan or bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili garlic sauce, and minced garlic. Warm gently over low heat, whisking constantly. Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until sauce is smooth and pourable.
  5. Thread the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and thread onto soaked skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Preheat grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush with oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Grill the satay: Place skewers on grill and cook 3-4 minutes per side, turning once or twice, until chicken is cooked through and has char marks. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  8. Serve: Transfer skewers to a platter and serve hot with peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor; longer marination (1-2 hours) is preferred. Soak bamboo skewers to prevent burning. Adjust chili garlic sauce to taste for heat preference. If peanut sauce is too thick, add warm water gradually. Use tamari for gluten-free option. Chicken breasts can be used but watch cooking time to avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken satay, peanut sauce, grilled chicken, easy recipe, homemade peanut sauce, Southeast Asian, barbecue, skewers