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+ servings
Sheila Browder

Satay Chicken with Peanut Dipping Sauce

If you’re on the hunt for tasty things to pair with satay chicken, you’re in for a treat. The flavor profile of satay chicken is rich and savory, so it’s best complemented with fresh, crisp sides. Think of a refreshing cucumber salad or jasmine rice to balance the dish's hearty notes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 15
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 600 g / 1.2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced into 2 cm chunks
  • 1 tablespoon mild curry spice blend
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons red curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon fine cooking salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
  • 3/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For Serving:
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped peanuts
  • Fresh lime wedges optional
  • Thinly sliced red chili optional

Equipment

  • Bowl, Grill

Method
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  1. Start by combining the diced chicken with the marinade ingredients in a bowl. The mix of curry blend, sugar, and lime juice will create a beautiful flavor base. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Cover it and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavors significantly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, red curry paste, sugar, soy sauce, salt, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well until combined, bringing it to a gentle boil.
  2. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Don’t forget to add the grated ginger for that extra kick. Once you get the desired consistency, set it aside. You can adjust the thickness by adding a bit of water if necessary.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
  1. Take small bamboo skewers (about 16 cm in length), and thread the marinated chicken chunks on them. Leave a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking. Sometimes I like to add pieces of bell pepper or onion on the skewers too, but that’s optional.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
  1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be captivating. Give yourself a pat on the back, because this is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Place them on a serving platter and drizzle with the peanut dipping sauce. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top and add lime wedges and sliced chilies if you like some heat. Serve immediately, and watch as your friends and family delight in the flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 18gFat: 16gSodium: 350mgFiber: 1g

Notes

Here are some nuggets of wisdom that will take your satay chicken to the next level:
  • Soak your skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning.
  • Don't rush the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer enhances flavor. If time permits, try leaving it overnight in the fridge.
  • Mix it up with different proteins: You can use this recipe for pork or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Add some crunch: Top your peanut sauce with crushed peanuts for texture. It elevates not just the flavor but also the presentation.
  • Customize your dipping sauce: The dipping sauce is versatile. Adjust sweetness or spiciness levels according to your preference.

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