Chicken Satay

Whenever I think of summer gatherings, the first dish that comes to mind is Chicken Satay. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that transports me back to those warm evenings spent with friends and family around the grill. The aroma of marinated chicken sizzling, combined with the sweet and savory notes of peanut sauce, makes my mouth water. I remember the first time I tried it at a small street market while traveling. The vendor’s passion for his craft, the vibrant colors of the ingredients, and the joy of sharing a meal made it unforgettable. This dish brings a taste of summer into any season, with its bold flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving something delicious, Chicken Satay is the perfect choice.

What’s In This Chicken Satay

The ingredients in Chicken Satay work together to create an explosion of flavor. Each component contributes to the dish’s depth, from the richness of coconut milk to the zesty lime juice. Marinating the chicken in this blend ensures that every bite is packed with taste.

• 2 pounds chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for marinating and grilling, providing a rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, balancing the spices beautifully.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Offers a salty umami flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: This brings in sweetness, helping to caramelize the chicken as it cooks.
• 1 Tablespoon minced ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, elevating the flavor profile.
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped: A must-have for that aromatic touch.
• 1 Tablespoon turmeric: Gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon curry powder: Adds complexity and a delightful twist.
• Juice of one lime: Brightens the dish with acidity, cutting through the richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
• 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped: For texture and crunch as a garnish.
• Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish: Fresh herbs and nuts add visual appeal and extra flavor.
• Homemade peanut sauce: The perfect accompaniment to serve with the chicken, rich and creamy.

Instructions for Chicken Satay

Making Chicken Satay is an enjoyable journey that starts with preparation and ends with a delicious meal. Let’s dive into the steps you’ll take to create this fantastic dish. Follow along closely and savor the process!

1. Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes them easy to skewer later. Set the pieces aside in a bowl, letting them rest while you whip up the marinade.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, chopped garlic, turmeric, and curry powder. The combination should be well-blended and smooth; this is where the flavor magic begins!
3. Add the juice of one lime to the marinade. This adds a zesty note that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
4. Now, generously season with salt and pepper, stirring everything together. Ensure the seasonings are well distributed, as they enhance each bite.
5. Introduce the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated. For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for three hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This step is incredibly important!
6. Once marinated, it’s time to prepare the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for a perfect sear.
7. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
8. Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about eight to ten minutes. Make sure to turn them once to achieve that beautiful char on all sides.
9. Check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees and no longer be pink inside. This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
10. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices.
11. Serve the Chicken Satay with a generous drizzle of homemade peanut sauce and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and cilantro for that fresh touch. Enjoy!

Variations to Try

There are so many ways to enjoy Chicken Satay. Here are some variations and tips to enhance your experience:

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Satay in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve Chicken Satay with jasmine rice, fresh cucumber salad, or spicy noodles for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or vegetables for a plant-based version.
• Peanut Sauce Variations: Experiment with your peanut sauce by adding a hint of sesame oil or a splash of lime for a twist.

Perfect Matches for Chicken Satay

When serving Chicken Satay, consider pairing it with complementary sides and beverages to enhance the dining experience:

• Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that soaks up the peanut sauce beautifully, making it a perfect base.
• Fresh Vegetable Salad: Crisp veggies like cucumber and carrots add a refreshing crunch and balance the dish.
• Spring Rolls: For an appetizer, serve with light and fresh spring rolls to kick off the meal.
• Cold Beverages: A chilled iced tea or coconut water can be a delightful accompaniment to cool you down on a hot day.
• Picnic or BBQ: Chicken Satay is ideal for outdoor gatherings; it’s easy to transport and share!

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Satay is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and culture. With its tender chicken, savory marinade, and delicious peanut sauce, it’s a recipe that brings joy to any table. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or just to satisfy your cravings at home. Once you do, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish worldwide!

Chicken Satay

The ultimate comfort food! Chicken Satay is a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner that will make your taste buds dance. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a delicious blend of spices and served with a creamy peanut sauce. Make it tonight for a delightful experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon minced ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 Tablespoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 juice of one lime
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
• chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
• homemade peanut sauce

Instructions

 

• Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes them easy to skewer later. Set the pieces aside in a bowl, letting them rest while you whip up the marinade.
• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, chopped garlic, turmeric, and curry powder. The combination should be well-blended and smooth; this is where the flavor magic begins!
• Add the juice of one lime to the marinade. This adds a zesty note that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
• Now, generously season with salt and pepper, stirring everything together. Ensure the seasonings are well distributed, as they enhance each bite.
• Introduce the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated. For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for three hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This step is incredibly important!
• Once marinated, it's time to prepare the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for a perfect sear.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
• Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about eight to ten minutes. Make sure to turn them once to achieve that beautiful char on all sides.
• Check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees and no longer be pink inside. This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
• Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices.
• Serve the Chicken Satay with a generous drizzle of homemade peanut sauce and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and cilantro for that fresh touch. Enjoy!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. For freezing, ensure the marinated chicken is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Keyword authentic chicken satay, chicken satay with peanut sauce, easy chicken satay recipe, grilled chicken satay

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!