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Plate of satay chicken skewers with peanut sauce and vegetables

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

A delightful and aromatic dish featuring juicy chicken tenders marinated in a creamy coconut mixture and grilled, served with a rich peanut sauce.
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk Provides a creamy base for marinade.
  • 4 cloves minced garlic Brings aromatic goodness.
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric Adds earthy depth.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro Enhances flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar Balances savory notes.
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce Adds umami flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders Absorbs the delicious marinade.
  • 18 pieces metal or bamboo skewers For holding the chicken.
For the Peanut Sauce
  • 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste Adjust according to spice preference.
  • ¾ cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter
  • ½ tablespoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider or white vinegar Adds tang to the sauce.
  • ½ cup water To adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Method
 

Make the Chicken
  1. In a small bowl, combine the coconut milk, minced garlic, turmeric, chopped cilantro, brown sugar, fish sauce, and kosher salt. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Pat the chicken tenders dry and pound them thin for even cooking.
  3. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, pour the marinade over, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Make the Peanut Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan, add the coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, peanut butter, kosher salt, sugar, vinegar, and water. Whisk until smooth.
  2. Bring to a simmer over low heat, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Reheat with water if too thick when cooling.
Grill the Chicken
  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Skewer the marinated chicken and place on the grill.
  3. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until fully cooked and with grill marks.
  4. Transfer to a serving platter to rest briefly.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish the skewers with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts.
  2. Serve with peanut sauce on the side.

Notes

Add lime juice for extra flavor; substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu. Soak bamboo skewers to prevent burning.