Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
A delightful dish featuring tender grilled chicken paired with a rich, nutty peanut sauce, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Brings aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon turmeric Offers color and health benefits.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for serving Adds brightness and freshness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar Balances savory flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce Essential for umami flavor.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt Enhances chicken flavors.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders Perfect for skewering.
- 18 pieces metal or bamboo skewers Bamboo should be soaked 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (13.5-ounce) Makes the sauce creamy.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste Adjust to your heat preference.
- ¾ cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter Provides smooth richness.
- ½ tablespoon kosher salt Enhances sauce flavor.
- ¾ cup sugar Balances spiciness with sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider or white vinegar Adds acidity to brighten sauce.
For Serving
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts Adds a crunchy texture.
Instructions
Make the Chicken
- Combine the coconut milk, minced garlic, turmeric, cilantro, brown sugar, fish sauce, and salt in a small bowl. Pat the chicken dry and pound the tenders until very thin. Place the chicken in a single layer in a baking dish and pour the marinade over. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours or preferably overnight.
Make the Peanut Sauce
- In a small saucepan, mix together the coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, peanut butter, salt, sugar, vinegar, and ½ cup of water. Whisk until combined and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers and grill undisturbed for about 3-5 minutes per side, until done. Transfer to a serving platter.
Garnish
- Garnish the skewers with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts, and serve with the peanut sauce on the side.
Notes
Marinate overnight for maximum flavor. Use fresh ingredients, and feel free to experiment with herbs or add lime juice for a twist. If using bamboo skewers, soak them before grilling.