If you have a craving for something rich, flavorful, and absolutely comforting, you are going to fall in love with this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe. It brings together tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious, creamy peanut sauce that’s bursting with fragrant spices and a hint of zing from lime and chili. Every bite is a perfect balance of nutty warmth and savory depth that feels like a big, reassuring hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with an exotic twist, this dish never fails to deliver that crave-worthy comfort with an Asian-inspired flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to making this dish truly special. Each component plays a pivotal role— from the creamy peanut butter that gives the sauce its signature richness, to the fresh ginger that adds a subtle zing, and the coconut milk that smooths everything into silky perfection.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, perfect for braising.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For searing and building base flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Essential aromatic that packs a punch of savory intensity.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings bright warmth and a subtle bite to balance the richness.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The heart of the satay sauce, smooth and nutty.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to round out the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Contributes a deep savory note that enhances the Asian flair.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of caramel sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional): For those who like a little heat to perk up the dish.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Provides creaminess and tropical flair.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps create the perfect braising liquid without diluting flavors.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds bright, fresh acidity to lift the sauce at the end.
- Chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds crunch, freshness, and vibrant color.
How to Make Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften until it turns translucent and sweet, about 5 minutes. This foundational step builds the savory base for your sauce. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring them in for just a minute until their fragrances fill your kitchen. This aromatic combo sets the tone for the rich, nutty goodness to come.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to your pot, making sure not to crowd the pan. Sear each side until they develop a beautiful light brown color, around 4 minutes per side. This step locks in juiciness and introduces a caramelized flavor that will shine through the braising process. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t cooked through yet; the braising will finish the job.
Step 3: Prepare and Pour the Satay Sauce
While your chicken is browning, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, chili paste if you’re using it, coconut milk, and chicken broth in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious mixture gently over your browned chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. This sauce is where the magic happens, melding nutty creaminess with savory and sweet notes.
Step 4: Braise Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chicken simmer in this rich sauce for about 25 to 30 minutes, until it becomes tender and infused with all those layered flavors. This slow braising not only softens the chicken but also thickens the sauce beautifully as the ingredients meld.
Step 5: Finish with Lime and Simmer Uncovered
Uncover the pot and stir in the fresh lime juice to add a zip of brightness that cuts through the richness. Allow it to simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, which will help the sauce thicken slightly and intensify. This final touch ensures your Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe sings with balanced flavors and a silky texture.
How to Serve Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish truly pop, top it with chopped roasted peanuts for a crunchy texture contrast and sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves to add a burst of herbal freshness that complements the nutty, creamy sauce perfectly. These simple garnishes turn a comforting meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
Side Dishes
This satay chicken is fantastic served over fluffy jasmine rice or light rice noodles, both of which soak up the sauce like a dream. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables for a wholesome and balanced meal. Think charred broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to add both color and nutrition on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe over steamed cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still keeps the flavors front and center. You can also transform it into a vibrant lunch bowl with fresh cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce. It’s an appealing way to enjoy this dish as leftovers or for a casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish in your freezer stash, it freezes beautifully. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals to heat evenly without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, though they are leaner and tend to cook faster. To avoid drying out, reduce the simmering time during the braising step and keep an eye on the texture.
Is this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe spicy?
The recipe is mildly spicy thanks to optional chili paste or sriracha, but you can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less or leaving it out completely for a milder dish.
What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?
You can try using tahini (sesame paste) to achieve a different but equally creamy and nutty flavor profile. Just keep in mind the taste will shift slightly, but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and check your chicken broth for gluten ingredients. This recipe naturally leans gluten-free otherwise.
How thick should the satay sauce be?
The sauce should be creamy and coat the chicken nicely, thickened somewhat after simmering uncovered. If it’s too thin, allow it a few more minutes to reduce; if too thick, add a little broth or coconut milk to loosen it up.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably special about the homemade warmth and richness packed into the Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe. It’s a dish that both comforts and excites your palate with every bite. Whether you’re new to cooking with peanut sauce or already a fan, this recipe is easy to fall for and even easier to share. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a go-to you’ll love coming back to again and again.
Print
Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Braised Nutty Satay Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and coconut milk. Enhanced with soy, fish sauce, and a touch of chili paste, this Asian-inspired dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. Garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro, it’s a comforting main course ideal for serving over jasmine rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Chicken and Aromatics
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Satay Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Finishing and Garnish
- Juice of 1 lime
- Chopped roasted peanuts for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Sear Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and sear them for approximately 4 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- Mix Satay Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, optional chili paste, coconut milk, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
- Braise Chicken: Pour the satay sauce mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Finish Sauce: Remove the lid and stir in the juice of one lime. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the braised satay chicken hot over rice or noodles, garnished generously with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a crunchier, nuttier flavor, use chunky peanut butter or add a spoonful of tahini to the sauce.
- This dish is excellent served with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or roasted vegetables.
- You may substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but reduce simmering time to avoid drying out the meat.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce and chicken broth to make this recipe gluten-free.
