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Irresistible Thai Peanut Chicken for Any Occasion | Creamy & Flavorful

Few dishes strike the balance between rich, savory, and slightly sweet as beautifully as Thai Peanut Chicken. With its creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and subtle garlic flavor, this recipe is comforting yet bold, simple yet impressive. This dish is versatile enough for any occasion: quick enough for a weeknight dinner, elegant enough for a dinner party, and meal-prep friendly for busy schedules. The sauce—made with creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, and garlic—clings perfectly to juicy chicken, creating a luscious coating that pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Irresistible Thai Peanut Chicken will earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
  • ⅓ cup creamy natural peanut butter
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped peanuts fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board & sharp knife

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Cut into strips or cubes for faster cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in peanut butter, coconut milk, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  3. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
  1. Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in sauce.
  2. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  3. Garnish with cilantro, peanuts, or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen sauce.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Peanut Chicken: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or Thai red curry paste.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter if allergic to peanuts.
Grilled Version: Grill chicken separately, then drizzle with peanut sauce before serving.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs are juicier and work perfectly.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute tofu or tempeh for chicken.
3. Do I have to use coconut milk?
Coconut milk adds creaminess, but you can use cream or milk instead.
4. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but creamy peanut butter creates a smoother sauce.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
6. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance.
7. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then coat with sauce.
8. How spicy is it?
Mild by default—adjust spice by adding chili or hot sauce.
9. What sides go best with Thai Peanut Chicken?
Steamed rice, jasmine rice, noodles, or sautéed veggies.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook chicken in batches.
🏁 Conclusion
This Irresistible Thai Peanut Chicken is creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish that works for any occasion.
It’s versatile enough to be served with rice, noodles, or vegetables, and customizable with spice or garnishes to suit your taste. Quick, healthy, and delicious, this recipe will win hearts at the dinner table every time.