If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and a little hint of spice, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful fusion of tender chicken pieces enveloped in a luxuriously creamy peanut sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re craving something quick after a busy day or want to impress guests with a fresh twist on an Asian-inspired meal, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a critical role in building the complex and delicious flavors that make this recipe so irresistible. From the creamy peanut butter to the bright pop of lime, every element adds a unique texture, aroma, or depth to the dish.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a lean option, all cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps sear the chicken, creating a golden crust packed with flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy): The star ingredient that lends creamy richness and that unmistakable nutty taste.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds that savory, umami backbone to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: Balances out the saltiness with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Introduces a subtle zing that brightens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a fragrant, toasted nuttiness that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts flavor with its aromatic punch.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Used to adjust the sauce consistency, making it perfectly smooth and pourable.
- Chopped green onions: A fresh, crisp garnish that adds color and mild onion flavor.
- Crushed peanuts: For crunch and an extra layer of peanut goodness.
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime adds a zesty finish that livens up every bite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for roughly 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all sides get that beautiful golden-brown color and the chicken cooks through completely. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Sauce
Mix the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha (if you like heat), and minced garlic in a small bowl. Whisk everything until smooth and well combined. Gradually stir in warm water to thin out the sauce to a creamy yet pourable consistency that’ll cling perfectly to the chicken.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to your skillet on medium heat. Pour the luscious peanut butter sauce over the chicken and stir gently, coating every piece evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken just a bit and for the flavors to mingle together into pure delicious harmony.
Step 4: Serve
Your Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is now ready to serve! Spoon it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, tossed noodles, or crisp steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate each plate, sprinkle chopped green onions and crushed peanuts over the top for a contrast of crunch and freshness. A handful of fresh cilantro adds a wonderful herbal brightness, and don’t forget a generous squeeze of lime juice—it’s the secret finishing touch that wakes up all the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed rice or soba noodles. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted or steamed veggies such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. The creamy, savory sauce complements fresh vegetables perfectly, turning every bite into a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve this peanut butter chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. You can also turn it into a wrap with some fresh greens and shredded carrots wrapped in warm tortillas or lettuce leaves for a fun handheld meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for an easy, tasty lunch or dinner on the go.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of warm water to bring back that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter alternatives in this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional peanut butter gives the richest flavor, you can try almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty twist. Just keep in mind the taste will shift slightly with the swap.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat is totally adjustable. The sriracha is optional and can be omitted or increased depending on how much spice you like. The dish is flavorful even without the heat, so it’s great for all palates.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing any savory depth in the peanut butter sauce.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Both chicken breasts and thighs work wonderfully. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts offer a leaner option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly and quickly.
How can I thicken the peanut butter sauce if it’s too runny?
If your sauce is too thin, simply simmer it a little longer in the pan with the chicken, stirring until it reduces to your preferred consistency. You can also add a bit more peanut butter to help thicken it up.
Final Thoughts
There’s a real magic in this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. It’s a dish that’s approachable enough for weeknight meals yet special enough to share with friends and family. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight hero!
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Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A creamy and savory Peanut Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked in a rich peanut butter sauce with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a hint of spice. This quick and easy skillet dish is perfect served over rice or noodles, garnished with fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts for an irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Peanut Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for spice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup warm water (to adjust sauce consistency)
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Peanut Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and minced garlic. Gradually add warm water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth and creamy but pourable.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet over medium heat. Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken and stir to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the peanut butter chicken over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs or breasts based on your preference; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha according to taste.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- The sauce consistency can be modified by adding more or less warm water.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
