Irresistible Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe for Quick Dinners

Name: Thai Peanut Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 2 tsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish); ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

July 16, 2025

Updated:

July 16, 2025

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The first time I tried Thai peanut chicken, I was instantly transported to a bustling street market in Bangkok, where the air buzzed with tantalizing aromas. The rich, creamy peanut sauce danced with hints of lime and garlic, coating succulent chicken pieces that practically begged to be devoured.

Cooking this dish at home is like inviting a slice of Thailand into your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this Thai peanut chicken promises to impress and satisfy every craving for flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Thai peanut chicken is quick and simple, making it perfect for busy nights

The explosion of flavors from the creamy sauce will leave you wanting more
Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat

It’s versatile enough for meal prep or serving at gatherings

One memorable night, I whipped up this dish for a casual dinner party. My friends couldn’t stop raving about the flavor—especially when they found out how easy it was to make!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work great; adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact in your sauce.
Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.

Coconut Milk: This adds richness and balances the flavors beautifully; opt for full-fat for creaminess.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish and provides a zesty kick.

Sriracha Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, this adds a delightful spicy edge.
Green Onions: These bring freshness and crunch; slice them thinly for garnish.
Cilantro: Chopped cilantro makes a fragrant finish that complements the dish perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by preparing your chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all that delicious sauce.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and let it warm until shimmering—a sure sign it’s ready for cooking.

Once hot, toss in your chicken pieces. Cook them until golden brown and they no longer pink inside—about 6-8 minutes should do the trick.

While the chicken cooks, grab another bowl and mix together your sauce ingredients: peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Stir until smooth; you’ll want it to be velvety!

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything bubble together for about 5 minutes.

Finally, serve your Thai peanut chicken over fluffy rice or noodles. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro—this adds color as well as fresh flavor!

Enjoy each bite of this comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!

You Must Know

This delicious Thai peanut chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
The creamy peanut sauce complements the tender chicken, making it a family favorite
Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it an impressive dish for any dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor, then cook it until golden brown before adding the sauce for optimal taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, add veggies like bell peppers, or spice things up with red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Thai peanut chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best flavor, use freshly crushed peanuts as a garnish
Always taste your peanut sauce before serving, adjusting sweetness or saltiness as needed

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking; this ensures even browning and proper cooking

Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of my friends’ compliments when I whipped this dish up at our potluck. It became an instant hit and was devoured within minutes!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Thai peanut chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; store it in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Thai peanut chicken?

Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference; feel free to omit chili flakes.

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