Easy

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Name: Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 900 g boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 2.5cm strips); 200 ml coconut milk; 2 tbsp finely minced lemongrass (tender inner part only); 1 tbsp ground turmeric; 2 tsp ground cumin; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp salt; 150 g natural peanut butter (smooth); 125 ml coconut milk (for sauce); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp Sambal Oelek chili paste

37 min6340 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|April 1, 2024

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is the appetizer that disappears first at every party. Chicken skewers marinated in coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, and cumin, grilled until caramelized. The peanut sauce—natural peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime, Sambal Oelek—is the reason people come back for more.

chicken-appetizersquébécois

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Lemongrass‑Infused Marinade

“Finely mince the lemongrass and let it sit in the coconut milk for 15 minutes before adding turmeric, cumin, and sugar. The brief infusion releases citrus aromatics that cut through the richness of the peanut sauce and keep the chicken bright.”

About This Recipe

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a beloved appetizer that never fails to impress at gatherings. The marinated chicken, infused with rich coconut milk, fragrant lemongrass, and a hint of turmeric and cumin, creates a delightful balance of flavors. Grilling the skewers until they caramelize adds a beautiful depth that is simply irresistible. Canadian home cooks adore this dish not only for its delicious taste but also for its ability to transport you to a sunny patio, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues or cozy indoor parties during the colder months.

Tips for the Best Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

To ensure your chicken satay is perfectly cooked and juicy, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop, but for even better results, let it sit overnight in the fridge. When grilling, keep a close eye on the skewers to avoid overcooking; the goal is a beautifully charred exterior while retaining moist, tender meat inside.

What to Serve With It

Serve your Chicken Satay with a side of vibrant cucumber salad and warm jasmine rice for a refreshing contrast to the rich peanut sauce. For a Canadian twist, consider pairing it with a light, citrusy craft beer or a refreshing iced tea. This combination not only complements the dish's flavors but also enhances the overall experience for your guests.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Chicken Satay can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the skewers in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out. If you need to freeze them, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it should keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Nutrition Per Serving

340

Calories

34g

Protein

26g

Fat

19g

Carbs

Fiber4g

Sugar5g

Sodium692mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?+

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more moisture and flavor, chicken breasts can work well too. Just be cautious about not overcooking them, as they can become dry.

What can I substitute for coconut milk in the marinade?+

If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use plain yogurt or sour cream for a tangy alternative. However, this will change the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make the peanut sauce spicier?+

To amp up the heat, you can add extra Sambal Oelek or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut sauce. Taste and adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I grill these skewers indoors?+

Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, using a stovetop grill pan is a great option. Just ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated while grilling.

What vegetables can I use for skewering?+

Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions all work wonderfully. They not only add color but also complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

25 min

Cook:

12 min

Total:

37 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Use chicken thighs instead of breasts—they stay juicy on the grill and have better flavor
2Mince the lemongrass very finely or it will be tough and stringy in the marinade
3Natural peanut butter (the kind you have to stir) makes a better sauce than processed brands—it's less sweet and more authentic
4Make extra peanut sauce—it's delicious on grilled vegetables, rice, or as a salad dressing

Variations

Swap chicken for beef sirloin strips or large shrimp for different satay styles
Add 1 tbsp fish sauce to the marinade for deeper umami flavor
Make the sauce spicier by doubling the Sambal Oelek or adding sriracha

Chicken Appetizers & Party Food

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

The secret to the best Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce? It is easier than you think.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

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Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience