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Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken: A Bold, Flavorful Dish That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken! Tender chicken is coated in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce with a touch of lime and herbs, giving it a deliciously tangy and savory finish. Served over rice or noodles, it’s a perfect fusion of Thai flavors that brings heat, creaminess, and zest to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken works best for this recipe. Chicken breast will be leaner, while thighs will provide a juicier, more flavorful result.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For cooking the chicken. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: To add flavor to the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger: For a warm, slightly spicy flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste.

For the Peanut Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter: Use creamy or crunchy peanut butter, depending on your preference.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: For a salty umami flavor. Use tamari or coconut aminos if you need a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar: To add sweetness and balance the heat.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: For acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness and a hint of citrus.
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha: To add heat and spice to the sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk: For creaminess and to thin out the sauce. You can also use water if you prefer a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil: For a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a fresh zing that complements the peanut butter.

For Serving:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine): Serve the chicken over rice for a complete meal. You can also use noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts: For garnish and extra crunch.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro: Chopped, for a burst of fresh flavor.
  • 1/2 lime: Cut into wedges for serving, for a fresh citrus kick.
  • 1 small cucumber: Thinly sliced, for crunch and freshness (optional).
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions: For added flavor and crunch.

Instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips. Season the chicken with garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Depending on the size of the pieces, the cooking time may vary, but the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  3. Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave any juices in the pan, as they’ll help to flavor the sauce.

Second Step: MAKE THE PEANUT SAUCE

  1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, lime juice, sriracha, coconut milk, sesame oil, and grated fresh ginger.
  2. Whisk Together: Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. The sauce should have a creamy consistency, but if it’s too thick, you can add a little more coconut milk or water to thin it out. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning—add more sriracha for heat, honey for sweetness, or lime for acidity.
  3. Heat the Sauce: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, pour the peanut sauce over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Third Step: COMBINE THE CHICKEN AND SAUCE

  1. Add the Chicken to the Sauce: Once the peanut sauce is heated, add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Toss the chicken in the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce and absorb the flavors.
  2. Simmer and Coat: Continue to cook the chicken in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Fourth Step: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

  1. Prepare the Base: While the chicken is simmering, cook your rice (if you haven’t already) and prepare any additional garnishes. Serve the rice in individual bowls.
  2. Top with Chicken: Spoon the peanut chicken over the rice, making sure to drizzle any extra sauce over the top.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.
  4. Optional Additions: For extra freshness, you can add cucumber slices or a handful of shredded carrots to the bowl. These vegetables provide a nice contrast to the rich peanut sauce.
  5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken while it’s hot. The dish is packed with flavor and makes a satisfying meal on its own.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 35g

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Find it online: https://foodmacronutrient.com/spicy-thai-peanut-chicken-a-bold-flavorful-dish-that-will-wow-your-taste-buds/