How to Make Thai-Style Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Thai-style chicken satay is a delicious and popular dish known for its tender marinated chicken skewers and rich, creamy peanut sauce. Making this mouthwatering dish at home is easier than you might think. Let’s dive into the steps for creating this flavorful experience!
Ingredients Needed
To make Thai-style chicken satay, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken Satay:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon red curry paste (optional for heat)
- Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken for the best flavors. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or as long as 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce
While the chicken marinates, you can prepare the peanut sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and coconut milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
If you prefer a bit of spice, add the red curry paste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, then remove it from the heat. Adjust the consistency with additional coconut milk if needed, and set aside to cool.
Grilling the Chicken Satay
Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread pieces of chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
Grill the chicken skewers for about 4-6 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serving Your Chicken Satay
After grilling, let the chicken satay rest for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the skewers on a platter alongside a small bowl of the peanut sauce for dipping. You can also garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for an extra touch.
This delightful dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad. Each bite captures the essence of Thai cuisine, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay
- Opt for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option; they are more forgiving on the grill.
- Don’t skip on marinating; it’s crucial for developing flavor.
- Experiment with the peanut sauce ingredients to suit your taste; you can add chili flakes for more heat or honey for sweetness.
Enjoy your homemade Thai-style chicken satay with peanut sauce, a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table!