If you love the rich, comforting flavors of Asian-inspired dishes with a nutty twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe. Imagine tender chicken thighs bathed in a creamy, luscious peanut sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, tang, and a hint of spice. This recipe brings together a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that meld into a satisfying, soul-warming meal perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises to be a new favorite in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component delivers a layer of flavor or texture that makes the dish irresistibly delicious, ensuring it’s both vibrant and deeply satisfying.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly tender and juicy, chicken thighs withstand braising beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For that golden sear that locks in flavor and creates a delicious crust.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Provides a fresh, zesty kick that balances richness.
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter: The star ingredient that brings creamy nuttiness and body to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup coconut milk: Adds luxurious creaminess with a hint of tropical sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings salty, umami depth and a gorgeous color.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens and balances the savory elements perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice: Adds bright acidity to lift the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional): For those who love a little heat in their satay.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water: Keeps the sauce smooth and saucy.
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish): Adds irresistible crunch and extra nutty goodness.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving: Bring freshness and vibrant color to every plate.
How to Make Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or braising pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor, then place them in the hot pan. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step not only locks in juices but creates that crave-worthy texture that’s so important in a great braised dish. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant, releasing a subtle sweetness that forms the foundation of the sauce. Then stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger, cooking for another minute to awaken those bright, aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Satay Sauce
Now comes the heart of this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe — the sauce. Add the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar or lime juice to the pan. For those who enjoy a little kick, stir in the chili garlic sauce or sriracha. Pour in the chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce slightly. Whisk all these ingredients together until the sauce is perfectly smooth, creamy, and ready to envelop the chicken in irresistible richness.
Step 4: Braise the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling each piece in the velvety satay sauce. Turn the chicken to coat it thoroughly in the sauce, then cover the pan. Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing it to cook through while soaking up all the nutty, complex flavors. If the sauce seems too thin at the end, remove the cover and simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up to your desired consistency.
How to Serve Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of garnish to elevate a dish! For this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe, sprinkle a handful of chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch and an extra punch of peanut flavor. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous freshness, and a squeeze of lime juice brightens the rich, creamy sauce beautifully right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when served alongside a fluffy bed of steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice that soaks up every drop of that luscious sauce. For a lighter alternative, try pairing with rice noodles or even a crunchy Asian-style slaw for textural contrast. These sides balance the richness of the chicken and make a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to impress, consider serving this Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe in individual bowls topped with crispy fried shallots or toasted sesame seeds for extra flair. You could also wrap the tender chicken and sauce in lettuce cups for a fun hand-held option. Experimenting with presentation can turn this everyday favorite into a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Braised Nutty Satay Chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful if not better. Be sure to cool the dish before storing to preserve texture and taste.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later. Just transfer cooled chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe over low heat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier during braising, chicken breasts can work if you watch them carefully to avoid drying out. Consider reducing cook time slightly and keep them moist by simmering gently in the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rich peanut sauce remains just as delicious.
What can I substitute for peanut butter?
If you want a different twist, almond or cashew butter are fantastic alternatives that offer a lovely nutty flavor while keeping that creamy texture essential for the sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is entirely up to you! The recipe suggests chili garlic sauce or sriracha, but you can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder version without compromising on flavor.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the satay sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just sear the chicken and simmer it in the pre-made sauce. It’s a great way to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe is truly a kitchen treasure that combines ease, bold flavors, and comforting textures into one unforgettable meal. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the way those simple ingredients transform into something spectacular. Once you do, I promise it will become a go-to recipe that brings joy to your table again and again.
Print
Braised Nutty Satay Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
Braised Nutty Satay Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, rich peanut sauce infused with ginger, garlic, and coconut milk. This Asian-inspired recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors, garnished with crunchy roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro, making it an incredible essential for any home cook seeking a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or braising pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger, cooking for an additional minute to release their fragrance.
- Make the satay sauce: Stir in the natural peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar or lime juice, and chili garlic sauce or sriracha if using. Add the chicken broth or water and whisk the mixture until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Braise the chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, turning them to coat thoroughly with the satay sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer over low heat for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Thicken the sauce: After the chicken is cooked through, uncover the pan and continue simmering for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the braised nutty satay chicken hot, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges. It pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or rice noodles.
Notes
- For variation, substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or rice noodles for a complete meal.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of chili garlic sauce or sriracha according to your preference.
- Ensure to simmer gently to keep the chicken tender and prevent the sauce from burning.
