Name: Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ½ cup light coconut milk; 1 tbsp Asian fish sauce; 2 tsp red curry paste; 1 tsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp Chopped cilantro; ½ tsp ground turmeric; ½ tsp kosher salt; freshly ground black pepper; 1¼ lbs chicken cutlets; 16 large bamboo skewers; lime wedges; 1 tbsp Chopped cilantro; 1 tbsp Chopped peanuts; For the peanut sauce:; ⅓ cup low sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp Better’n peanut butter; 1 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp honey; 1 tsp Sriracha chili sauce; 1 tsp freshly grated ginger; 1 clove garlic

Grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce is an irresistible dish that's perfect for any occasion. The tender, marinated chicken skewers are grilled to perfection and paired with a rich, spicy peanut sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a new family favorite, this recipe is sure to impress.

Photos of Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in your kitchen. Asian fish sauce, red curry paste, and Better’n Peanut Butter are specialty items that you might need to look for in the international or Asian foods aisle at your local supermarket. Be sure to also grab some coconut milk and sriracha chili sauce if they're not already in your pantry.

Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Satay With Spicy Peanut Sauce

Light coconut milk: Adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness to the marinade.

Asian fish sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor that enhances the chicken.

Red curry paste: Brings a fragrant, spicy kick to the marinade.

Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.

Ground turmeric: Adds color and a warm, earthy flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the marinade and sauce.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Chicken cutlets: The main protein, sliced into strips for grilling.

Bamboo skewers: Used to thread the marinated chicken for grilling.

Lime wedges: Served on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.

Chopped peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture to the final dish.

Low sodium chicken broth: Forms the base of the peanut sauce.

Better’n Peanut Butter: A lower-fat alternative to traditional peanut butter, used in the sauce.

Reduced sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to the peanut sauce.

Honey: Provides sweetness to balance the spicy elements.

Sriracha chili sauce: Adds heat and a bit of tang to the peanut sauce.

Freshly grated ginger: Adds a sharp, spicy note to the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a robust, savory flavor to the sauce.

One reader, Dewain Potts says:

The grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce was a hit at our dinner party. The marinade infused the chicken with incredible flavor, and the peanut sauce added the perfect spicy kick. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Dewain Potts

Techniques Required for Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce

How to slice chicken: Slice the chicken into long, thin strips, about 3 inches long by 1 inch wide. How to marinate chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, turn to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or longer. How to prepare peanut sauce: Combine all the peanut sauce ingredients in a small saucepan, whisk well, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook for about 5 minutes until smooth, stirring constantly. How to thread chicken onto skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked bamboo skewers. How to grill chicken: Place the skewered chicken on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

How To Make Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Marinated in coconut milk, this grilled chicken satay makes an amazing appetizer. It’s a Southeast Asian skewer served with peanut sauce and lime wedges.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cuplight coconut milk
1tbspAsian fish sauce
2tspred curry paste
1tspbrown sugar
1tbspchopped cilantro
½tspground turmeric
½tspkosher salt
freshly ground black pepper,to taste
1¼lbschicken cutlets,thin sliced, boneless, skinless
16large bamboo skewers,soaked in cold water
lime wedges,for garnish
1tbspchopped cilantro,for garnish
1tbspchopped peanuts,for garnish, optional

For the Peanut Sauce:

⅓cuplow sodium chicken broth
2tbspBetter’n peanut butter
1tbspreduced sodium soy sauce,Tamari for gluten-free
2tsphoney
1tspSriracha chili sauce
1tspfreshly grated ginger
1clovegarlic,small, minced

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the marinade ingredients except for the chicken.
Slice the chicken into long, thin strips, about 3 inches long by 1 inch wide, and add to the marinade. Turn chicken to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or longer.
Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and whisk well.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook for about 5 minutes until smooth, stirring constantly. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
Prepare grill to high heat and thread marinated chicken onto soaked bamboo skewers. Place on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Serve with lime wedges and peanut sauce and garnish with cilantro and peanuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 359.06kcal
Fat: 20.67g
Saturated Fat: 6.32g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.18g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.23g
Carbohydrates: 9.58g
Fiber: 1.36g
Sugar: 5.66g
Protein: 33.29g
Cholesterol: 90.96mg
Sodium: 617.76mg
Calcium: 37.16mg
Potassium: 467.57mg
Iron: 1.91mg
Vitamin A: 38.93µg
Vitamin C: 3.47mg

Crucial Technique Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Satay

For an extra depth of flavor, toast the peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant before chopping and using them as a garnish. This will enhance the nutty taste and add a delightful crunch to your grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Grilled Chicken Satay Recipe

Marinate overnight: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-make peanut sauce: Make the peanut sauce in advance and store it in the fridge to cut down on prep time.

Use pre-cut chicken: Buy pre-cut chicken cutlets to skip the slicing step.

Soak skewers early: Soak the bamboo skewers ahead of time to ensure they are ready when you need them.

Organize ingredients: Lay out all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe

light coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar creamy texture with a lighter flavor, suitable for those avoiding coconut.
asian fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce offers a similar umami flavor without the fishy taste, making it a good vegetarian option.
red curry paste - Substitute with yellow curry paste: Yellow curry paste has a milder flavor but still provides the necessary spice and complexity.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, which complements the other flavors in the dish.
chopped cilantro - Substitute with chopped parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor without the soapy taste some people associate with cilantro.
ground turmeric - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin offers a warm, earthy flavor that can mimic the depth turmeric adds to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it an easy swap.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, often used in Asian cuisine.
chicken cutlets - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great vegetarian alternative that absorbs the marinade well and grills nicely.
bamboo skewers - Substitute with metal skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and provide the same function without the need for soaking.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges offer a similar acidic brightness to finish the dish.
chopped cilantro - Substitute with chopped basil: Basil provides a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
chopped peanuts - Substitute with chopped cashews: Cashews offer a similar crunch and mild nutty flavor, suitable for those with peanut allergies.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good vegetarian option that still adds depth to the sauce.
better’n peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, suitable for those avoiding peanuts.
reduced sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.
sriracha chili sauce - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce offers a similar heat with an added garlic flavor.
freshly grated ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger provides a similar spicy warmth, though it's less pungent than fresh.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder offers a similar flavor, though it's less intense than fresh garlic.

Presenting Grilled Chicken Satay for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the grilled chicken satay in elegant, bite-sized portions. Slice the chicken cutlets into uniform, thin strips to ensure even cooking and a refined appearance.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped cilantro and peanuts. Arrange them artistically around the chicken satay to add color and texture.
Create a dipping station: Serve the spicy peanut sauce in a small, elegant dipping bowl. Place it centrally on the plate to invite interaction and enhance the dining experience.
Add a citrus element: Include a few lime wedges on the side. The bright green color will contrast beautifully with the golden chicken satay and provide a fresh, zesty flavor.
Use a minimalist approach: Keep the plate clean and uncluttered. Focus on the quality and presentation of each element, ensuring that the chicken satay and peanut sauce are the stars of the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a small mound of finely chopped peanuts on the side for an extra crunch. This will provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and creamy peanut sauce.
Highlight the marinade: Ensure that the marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, with visible grill marks that showcase the flavors of the coconut milk, fish sauce, and red curry paste.
Balance the flavors: Make sure the spicy peanut sauce has a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. The honey, sriracha chili sauce, and soy sauce should be well-balanced to complement the grilled chicken satay.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, from the chicken cutlets to the cilantro and peanuts, are fresh and of the highest quality to elevate the dish.
Pay attention to detail: Every element on the plate should be meticulously arranged. The chicken satay should be evenly spaced, the peanut sauce should be smooth and glossy, and the garnishes should be finely chopped and evenly distributed.

Essential Tools for Making Grilled Chicken Satay

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the marinade ingredients and mix them well before adding the chicken.
Whisk: Essential for blending the marinade and the peanut sauce ingredients smoothly.
Knife: Needed to slice the chicken into long, thin strips.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the chicken.
Small saucepan: Used to cook the peanut sauce until it is smooth.
Stove: Necessary for heating the peanut sauce to a boil and then simmering it.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken skewers on the grill.
Grill: Where the marinated chicken skewers will be cooked to perfection.
Bamboo skewers: Soak these in water before threading the marinated chicken onto them for grilling.
Measuring cups: Required for accurately measuring the coconut milk, chicken broth, and other liquid ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like fish sauce, curry paste, and honey.
Lime wedges: Serve these alongside the grilled chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving platter: To present the grilled chicken satay with the peanut sauce, garnished with cilantro and peanuts.

Storing and Freezing Grilled Chicken Satay for Later

Let the chicken satay cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover satay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled satay skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).
Once frozen, transfer the skewers to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the bag or container with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen chicken satay can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the skewers in the refrigerator overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the thawed skewers on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the skewers on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Store the peanut sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray, leaving some space for expansion.
Thaw frozen peanut sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chicken Satay

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken satay on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the skewers with a little coconut milk or water to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the edges start to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken satay on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the chicken tough and rubbery.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the chicken satay skewers directly over medium-high heat. Brush the skewers with a little oil to prevent sticking and grill for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the chicken is heated through and has nice grill marks.
For the peanut sauce, reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warm and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with a little chicken broth or water.
If you want to keep the chicken satay and peanut sauce separate, you can reheat the chicken using any of the above methods and serve the peanut sauce at room temperature or slightly warmed.
To add some freshness and crunch to your reheated chicken satay, serve it with a side of cucumber and carrot sticks, or a simple green salad dressed with lime juice and fish sauce.

Interesting Facts About Grilled Chicken Satay

A random fact about this recipe is that satay is a popular dish in Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It typically consists of grilled meat served with a flavorful peanut sauce.

Is Making Grilled Chicken Satay at Home Cost-Effective?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce recipe, it scores an 8 out of 10. The ingredients like chicken cutlets, coconut milk, and peanut butter are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of cilantro, lime wedges, and spices adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet flavorful option.

Is Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Healthy?

This grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it uses lean chicken cutlets as the main protein source, which are low in fat and high in protein. The marinade includes healthful ingredients like light coconut milk, cilantro, and turmeric, which offer beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. The peanut sauce is made with better'n peanut butter, a lower-fat alternative to regular peanut butter, and includes ginger and garlic, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components. The marinade and peanut sauce both include added sugars (brown sugar and honey), which can contribute to excess calorie intake. The peanut sauce also contains sriracha chili sauce, which may be high in sodium. Additionally, the recipe doesn't include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the marinade or replace it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Swap the honey in the peanut sauce for a sugar-free alternative or reduce the quantity
Use low-sodium soy sauce in the peanut sauce to decrease the overall sodium content
Serve the chicken satay alongside a generous portion of grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
Opt for whole grain or vegetable-based sides, like brown rice or a fresh salad, to complement the dish and provide additional nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce

This grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The marinade, with its coconut milk and red curry paste, imparts a rich, aromatic taste to the chicken. The peanut sauce, with its balance of sweetness from honey and heat from sriracha, complements the savory skewers perfectly. The use of fresh ginger and garlic adds depth, while the cilantro and peanuts provide a fresh, crunchy finish. This dish is both visually appealing and delicious, making it an excellent choice for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner party.

Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Imagine a vibrant salad bursting with the sweetness of mango and the creamy texture of avocado. This refreshing side dish will perfectly balance the savory notes of your grilled chicken satay.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness and rich aroma of coconut milk will complement the spicy peanut sauce and add a delightful contrast to the chicken satay.

Thai Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this cucumber salad is infused with the tangy flavors of rice vinegar and a hint of chili. It's the perfect palate cleanser to accompany your main course.

Sweet Potato Fries: Add a touch of sweetness and crunch with sweet potato fries. These golden delights, seasoned with a hint of paprika, will provide a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken satay.

Pineapple Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with pineapple fried rice. The juicy chunks of pineapple and the savory notes of soy sauce create a harmonious blend that pairs beautifully with the spicy peanut sauce.

Delicious Alternatives to Grilled Chicken Satay

Thai Basil Chicken: Dive into the aromatic world of Thai cuisine with this delightful dish. Juicy chicken pieces are stir-fried with fresh basil leaves, garlic, and chilies, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Bangkok. Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken: Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this zesty and fragrant dish. Marinated in a blend of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce, the chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a tantalizing combination of savory and citrusy notes. Pair with a side of pickled vegetables for an authentic touch.

Indonesian Chicken Satay: Take a culinary journey to Indonesia with this classic street food favorite. Skewered chicken is marinated in a rich mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices, then grilled to a smoky finish. Serve with a creamy peanut sauce and a side of cucumber salad for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Malaysian Chicken Rendang: Indulge in the complex and aromatic flavors of Malaysian cuisine with this slow-cooked chicken dish. Simmered in a rich coconut milk and spice blend, the chicken becomes tender and infused with the deep, earthy flavors of galangal, lemongrass, and turmeric. Serve with steamed rice or roti for a satisfying meal.

Spicy Korean Chicken Skewers: Get ready for a burst of Korean flavors with these fiery and flavorful skewers. Marinated in a spicy blend of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil, the chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a perfect balance of heat and umami. Serve with a side of kimchi and steamed rice for a complete Korean feast.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Grilled Chicken Satay

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to kick off any meal. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is enhanced with a touch of parmesan and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crispy top. These bite-sized delights are baked to golden perfection, offering a creamy and crunchy texture in every bite. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly!

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an aromatic base. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for entertaining.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that will leave your guests in awe. This dessert features a warm, gooey center that oozes out as you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the slightly crisp exterior. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your dinner guests with a show-stopping finale.

Mango Sticky Rice: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with mango sticky rice, a classic Thai dessert that combines sweet, ripe mangoes with creamy coconut-infused sticky rice. The rice is cooked to perfection, absorbing the rich coconut milk, and then paired with slices of juicy mango. Drizzle a bit of extra coconut sauce on top and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for added texture. This dessert is not only visually stunning but also a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave your guests craving more.

Why trust this Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe:

This recipe for grilled chicken satay with spicy peanut sauce is a must-try for any food enthusiast. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors from coconut milk, red curry paste, and fish sauce. The peanut sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, thanks to honey, sriracha, and freshly grated ginger. This recipe has been meticulously crafted and tested to ensure a delightful culinary experience. Trust in the combination of authentic ingredients and detailed instructions to deliver a dish that will impress any palate.

Want to share your own twist on this Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how you made this dish your own!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight will really let those flavors soak in.

Can I use regular peanut butter instead of Better’n Peanut Butter?

Absolutely! Regular peanut butter works just fine. Just keep in mind that it might make the sauce a bit richer and thicker.

Do I need to soak the bamboo skewers?

Yes, soaking the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the peanut sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

What can I serve with the grilled chicken satay?

I love serving it with some jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad. The lime wedges and extra cilantro and peanuts for garnish really bring everything together.