If you are craving a dish that is bursting with flavor yet incredibly comforting, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe perfectly balances the creamy richness of peanut butter with the subtle warmth of ginger and garlic, all wrapped up in a luscious coconut milk sauce. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that make this dish unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this peanut butter chicken will become your go-to meal for a satisfying and unique dinner experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe are wonderfully straightforward but essential to create its signature taste and texture. Each item adds something special, from the tender chicken to the creamy peanut butter and the bright acidity of rice vinegar or lime juice.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: The star of the dish that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing the veggies and chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an irresistible aroma and flavor punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a bit of zing to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A mild heat that complements the other spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you like a little spice.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The creamy base that makes this chicken uniquely delicious.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Brings silkiness and tropical flavor to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice: Lifts the flavors and gives a refreshing tang.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the tang and spice with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water: Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- For serving: chopped peanuts, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, steamed rice: Essential accompaniments that add texture, freshness, and completeness to the meal.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking them for just 30 seconds until their fragrant aromas fill the kitchen. This base creates the heart of the flavor that builds the entire dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan, making sure not to crowd them so they brown nicely. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. This step locks in the savory notes and ensures tender, juicy meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar or lime juice, brown sugar, and chicken broth in a medium bowl. Creating this sauce separately ensures it is creamy and smooth before it joins the chicken in the skillet, giving you a rich, velvety texture.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet with the chicken, stirring to coat every piece beautifully. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld, resulting in a luscious coat that clings to the chicken perfectly.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To really bring this dish to life, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for a delightful crunch. Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, herbal note that cuts through the richness. Finish off with a squeeze of lime juice or a wedge on the side to brighten every bite and add a refreshing contrast.
Side Dishes
Serving your peanut butter chicken over fluffy steamed rice is a classic choice as it soaks up all that wonderful sauce. For an extra boost of greens, steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach make great accompaniments, adding color and balancing the creamy sauce with earthy freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your peanut butter chicken in small bowls accompanied by warm naan or crusty bread to scoop up all the extra sauce. Alternatively, turn this into a vibrant rice bowl topped with sliced bell peppers, crunchy sprouts, and even a drizzle of sriracha for a playful kick. The possibilities are endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the peanut butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, but a quick stir or gentle reheating will bring it back to that perfect creamy texture.
Freezing
This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently until warmed through, making sure not to overcook the chicken for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a wonderful texture contrast to the silky sauce, making each bite extra interesting. Feel free to experiment to find what you like best.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked.
What if I don’t have coconut milk on hand?
You can use full-fat cream or even regular milk, though coconut milk adds a unique richness and tropical flair. If substituting, consider adjusting seasonings to keep the balance of flavors.
How spicy is this recipe?
The chili flakes are optional, allowing you to control the heat level. Without them, the dish is mild and perfect for those sensitive to spice. Add more or less depending on your preference.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can dice the chicken and prep the aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger in advance to save time on cooking day. The peanut sauce ingredients can also be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
I truly encourage you to dive into this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe and experience the incredible harmony of flavors it offers. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress anyone at your table. Once you try this recipe, it might just become one of your favorite go-to meals for its ease, taste, and warmth. Happy cooking!
Print
Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peanut Butter Chicken is a creamy, savory Asian-inspired main course featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich peanut and coconut milk sauce. This easy stovetop recipe balances flavors with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of lime or rice vinegar, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Cooking & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
For Serving
- Chopped peanuts
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Steamed rice
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Mix the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar or lime juice, brown sugar, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and simmer: Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet with the chicken and stir well to coat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Serve the peanut butter chicken hot over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to add brightness and crunch.
Notes
- For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to make it a complete one-pan meal.
- Use light coconut milk for a lower-fat variation without sacrificing flavor.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce.
