When it comes to satisfying meals that make your taste buds dance, Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken takes the cake—or should I say the bowl? Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, creamy peanut sauce that wraps around every morsel like a warm hug. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table and dig in.

This dish is perfect for those nights when you want to impress without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even just a cozy night in with your favorite Netflix series. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple you can’t resist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can set it and forget it until dinner time
- Rich, nutty flavors combined with tender chicken create an unforgettable meal
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring a feast for both the eyes and stomach
- Its versatility allows for endless variations based on what you have on hand
I remember the first time I served Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken at a family gathering. My aunt’s eyebrows shot up as she took her first bite, followed by an approving nod that said it all.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on your crowd size.
Peanut Butter: Choose creamy or crunchy based on your texture preference; both give fantastic flavor.
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and balances out the flavors beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness and enhance depth.
Honey: A touch of sweetness brings harmony to the savory elements; feel free to adjust based on taste.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced for maximum flavor impact; nothing beats fresh ingredients!
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a kick! Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First off, let’s prepare our main star.
Prep Your Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat off your chicken breasts—nobody likes chewing on rubbery bits. Pat them dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth. This will smell divine!
Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour that luscious peanut sauce over them like you’re drenching them in liquid gold.
Set It and Forget It!: Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just walk away; let that slow cooker work its magic while you binge-watch something hilarious.
Shred and Serve!: Once cooked through (the chicken should shred easily), pull it out with two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles; don’t forget those garnishes!
Garnish for Glory!: Finish off with chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts on top for added flavor and crunch—because who doesn’t love crunch?
Now you’ve got yourself a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also makes you feel like a culinary genius! Enjoy every creamy bite of this Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken!
You Must Know
- Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken is a game changer for busy weeknights
- The rich, nutty aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks, and the tender chicken melts in your mouth
- Serve it over rice or veggies for a satisfying meal that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then mix ingredients in the slow cooker before cooking on low for six to eight hours.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out peanut butter for almond butter or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing the chicken first enhances flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful dish
- Always taste before serving; sometimes a pinch of salt makes all the difference
- For added creaminess, stir in coconut milk just before serving!
I still remember the first time I made Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken; my friends raved about it at dinner! Their requests for seconds made me feel like a culinary rockstar.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken?
Yes, but thawing it first gives better results and ensures even cooking.
What can I serve with Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes or sriracha to bring some heat and excitement to your meal.

Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken
Slow-Cooker Peanut Butter Chicken is a deliciously creamy dish that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich peanut sauce, creating a comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen and entice everyone to gather around the table. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this easy recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. Serve over rice or noodles, and enjoy every satisfying bite!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over it.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix back into the sauce.
- Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg