If you have ever craved a meal that bursts with flavor, color, and warmth all in one bite, this Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe is absolutely the one to try. It’s a beautiful marriage of tender chicken pieces coated in a silky, nutty peanut sauce with just the right kick from garlic, ginger, and a touch of sriracha. Every ingredient plays its part perfectly, creating an irresistible combination that feels homey yet exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing friends with your culinary skills, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how essential each one is to building the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. These pantry staples and fresh produce come together to make a truly satisfying and vibrant dish.
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Using bite-sized pieces ensures quick, even cooking and a tender outcome.
- Vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing without overpowering flavors.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Shredded carrots: Freshness and a subtle sweetness that complements the sauce.
- Green onions: A mild onion flavor that adds freshness and color.
- Garlic: Essential for depth and that irresistible aroma.
- Fresh ginger: Brings a zesty warmth that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- Creamy peanut butter: The heart of the sauce, lending creaminess and richness.
- Soy sauce: Adds savory umami and depth.
- Chicken broth or water: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Rice vinegar: Introduces acidity that balances the richness perfectly.
- Honey or brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Sesame oil: Just a hint for its nutty and fragrant finish.
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional): For those who like a bit of heat and liveliness.
- Chopped peanuts: Adds texture and enhances the peanut flavor.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges: Bright garnishes that lift the entire dish.
- Cooked jasmine rice: The perfect fluffy bed for the saucy chicken.
How to Make Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, cooking them until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in the juices and creates that savory base we want in every bite. Once cooked, set the chicken aside because it’s about to reunite with an explosion of flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and toss in minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions. Sauté these for a few minutes until they soften slightly but still retain crunch. This step is crucial because it brings fresh texture and vibrant color to the dish, keeping it lively and exciting.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce
While the vegetables cook, mix creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth (or water), rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and sriracha if you’re using it in a small bowl. Whisk this mixture until it’s smooth and perfectly blended. This rich and tangy sauce is the heart and soul of the Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe, marrying sweet, salty, and nutty flavors into one irresistible coating.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the peanut sauce over everything. Stir well to ensure every piece of chicken and vegetable is beautifully coated. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken just enough to cling deliciously to the ingredients. This step guarantees that every bite bursts with flavor and that comforting peanut creaminess.
How to Serve Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the dish for a delightful crunch that echoes the peanut sauce. Add fresh cilantro to brighten the flavors with herbaceous notes. Finally, a wedge of lime isn’t just decorative—it adds a zesty twist that wakes up your taste buds right before eating.
Side Dishes
This Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with classic jasmine rice, which soaks up that luscious sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. Alternatively, noodles tossed lightly in sesame oil create a delightful alternative base that carries the sauce just as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pile the Thai Peanut Chicken over crispy lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld experience. You can also layer it into a colorful rice bowl with sliced cucumbers and shredded cabbage for a textural delight. Serving alongside a simple cucumber salad dressed with lime and chili flakes completes a refreshing and balanced meal that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will only deepen as they sit, making for an even tastier next-day lunch or dinner. Just be sure to keep the garnishes separate to retain their freshness and crunch.
Freezing
This dish freezes well and can be a lifesaver for busy nights. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture without breaking.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to bring the sauce back to a silky consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible because gentle stovetop warming preserves the integrity of the peanut sauce and prevents the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook so the chicken stays juicy and tender in this flavorful sauce.
What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have a nut allergy?
Sunflower seed butter or tahini both make excellent nut-free alternatives. They will change the flavor slightly but still deliver a creamy, satisfying sauce.
How spicy is this Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe?
The level of heat can be adjusted easily by the amount of sriracha or chili sauce you add. You can omit it altogether for a mild, kid-friendly version or add more if you love a spicy kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats wonderfully and can be portioned into containers with rice for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, swap the chicken for firm tofu and use vegetable broth in the sauce. The flavors remain just as vibrant and satisfying, making it a versatile option for all diets.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that this Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe is a total game-changer for home-cooked meals. It’s packed with so much flavor, easy to make, and totally comforting without feeling heavy. Whether you’re new to cooking Thai-inspired dishes or a seasoned enthusiast, give this recipe a whirl—you might just find it becomes your go-to weeknight favorite. Get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!
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Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Thai Peanut Chicken recipe features tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked in a creamy, flavorful peanut sauce with fresh vegetables. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and heat, it’s an easy stovetop meal served over jasmine rice and garnished with crunchy peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. Ideal for a quick, satisfying dinner inspired by Thai flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)
Garnishes and Serving
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 6–8 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add more oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth (or water), rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, and sriracha if using. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture, stirring well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Simmer everything together for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the Thai peanut chicken hot over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- To adjust the spice level, increase or decrease the amount of sriracha.
- For a vegetarian adaptation, substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.
- This dish can be served with noodles instead of rice for a delicious variation.
