Description
There’s something magical about Thai flavors—rich, creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and that irresistible balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy. This Thai Peanut Chicken is one of those dishes that brings comfort in every bite. The creamy peanut sauce coats tender, juicy chicken, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to make at home.
If you love the bold flavors of Thai cuisine but want something simple enough for a weeknight dinner, this dish is perfect. It’s packed with protein, full of flavor, and comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside fresh veggies, this peanut chicken will become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Peanut Sauce:
- ½ cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper.
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be aromatic but not browned.
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sriracha, and sesame oil. This mixture will be thick at first, but once it heats up, it will turn into a smooth, luscious sauce.
Pour the peanut sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a splash of water or extra coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions on top. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- You can store leftover peanut chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.