peanut chicken recipe with peanut butter
The Best peanut chicken recipe with peanut butter
I’ve been making this peanut chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that never gets old. The creamy peanut butter sauce is rich but not heavy, and it clings perfectly to the tender chicken, giving every bite a little sweetness and a nutty depth. My kids absolutely love it—even the picky one who usually turns his nose up at anything with sauce will ask for seconds. It’s one of those meals that feels special but is simple enough to throw together on a weeknight, which is why it’s a regular in our dinner rotation.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how balanced it is. Peanut butter brings protein and healthy fats, while the chicken adds lean protein, and the veggies I toss in (usually bell peppers and carrots) round it out with fiber and vitamins. It’s filling without being greasy, and the flavors are bold enough that you don’t feel like you’re eating something “healthy”—it just tastes good. I’ve served it over rice for a hearty family dinner, in lettuce wraps for a lighter option, or even as a topping for noodles when I’m craving something a little more indulgent. It’s versatile, quick, and always a hit, which is why it’s one of my go-to recipes.
Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken
A rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy peanut butter sauce. This recipe combines savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes for a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
👨🍳Directions
-
1 In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and set aside.
-
2 In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, ginger, garlic, and coconut milk until smooth. Set aside.
-
3 Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and nearly cooked through.
-
4 Reduce heat to medium and pour the peanut sauce over the chicken. Stir well to combine and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked.
-
5 Stir in lime juice and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce, honey, or sriracha if needed.
-
6 Garnish with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles and lime wedges on the side.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken Works
This peanut chicken with peanut butter is one of those recipes that just works every time—simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for company. The creamy, nutty sauce brings everything together in a way that kids and adults both love, and it’s always a hit at potlucks or family dinners. I keep it in my regular rotation because it’s easy, flavorful, and never fails to please a crowd.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for the peanut chicken recipe?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your sauce. However, smooth peanut butter will give you a creamier and more uniform sauce. If you opt for crunchy, you may want to blend it slightly to help it incorporate better into the sauce.
2. What can I substitute if I don’t have soy sauce for the peanut chicken recipe?
If you don’t have soy sauce, you can use tamari (a gluten-free alternative), coconut aminos, or even a mix of Worcestershire sauce and a little salt. Keep in mind that coconut aminos are slightly sweeter, so you may want to adjust the sugar or honey in the recipe accordingly.
3. How do I prevent the peanut sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy?
To avoid a thick or clumpy peanut sauce, whisk the peanut butter with warm liquid (like broth, coconut milk, or water) before adding it to the pan. Start with a small amount of liquid and gradually thin it out to your desired consistency. If the sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply add a splash more liquid and stir well.
4. Can I make this peanut chicken recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken when chilled. Gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
5. What sides pair well with peanut chicken?
Peanut chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed jasmine or basmati rice, quinoa, or noodles (like rice noodles or soba). For a fresh contrast, serve it with a side of cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or stir-fried vegetables. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro on top adds extra flavor and crunch.
