Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table. It’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken skewers marinated in aromatic spices and paired with a creamy, spicy peanut sauce makes this recipe irresistible.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
• For the Chicken Satay:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Prepare the Grill
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Pair with Jasmine Rice
• Fresh Cucumber Salad
• Pickled Vegetables
• Sliced Lime Wedges
• Grilled Pineapple
• Cold Beer or Iced Tea
• How to Perfect Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Dipping Sauce
• Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other proteins for satay?
• How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?
• What sides pair well with Thai Chicken Satay?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• What if I don’t have lemongrass?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the rich taste of Thai spices combined with the creamy texture of peanut butter.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even at a barbecue!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Both the peanut sauce and marinated chicken can be prepared in advance.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests at any gathering with its unique flavors and presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Blender or food processor
• Medium bowl
• Grill or grill pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: Essential for threading chicken pieces; they ensure even cooking on the grill.
• Blender or food processor: Makes it easy to create a smooth marinade and sauce without lumps.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing your peanut sauce ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup hot water
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Chicken Satay:

• 1 stalk lemongrass, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons freshly minced garlic (about 2 medium cloves)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced into ½-inch strips lengthwise
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the peanut butter and hot water until smooth.
2. Stir in red curry paste, palm sugar, Sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, garlic, red pepper flakes, and scallions.
3. Season with salt to taste. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a blender or food processor:
1. Combine lemongrass, vegetable oil, fish sauce, palm sugar, lime juice, soy sauce, turmeric, garlic, coriander, and Sriracha.
2. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Place chicken strips in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour in the marinade.
4. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours while turning occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

If using a charcoal grill:
1. Light one chimney full of charcoal.
2. Once covered with gray ash, pour it out and spread evenly over the coal grate.
3. Set the cooking grate in place and preheat for 5 minutes while cleaning and oiling it.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

On soaked bamboo skewers:
1. Thread marinated chicken strips onto skewers.
2. Grill for about 3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
3. Transfer skewers to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm chicken satay skewers alongside spicy peanut sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Serving Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is all about complementing the bold flavors of the dish. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Jasmine Rice

• Jasmine rice is a fragrant and fluffy option that balances the savory notes of the satay beautifully.

Fresh Cucumber Salad

• A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crunchy texture and cuts through the richness of the peanut sauce.

Pickled Vegetables

• Sweet and tangy pickled vegetables offer a delightful contrast to the savory chicken skewers.

Sliced Lime Wedges

• Serving lime wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their satay, adding brightness to each bite.

Grilled Pineapple

• Sweet, caramelized grilled pineapple adds a tropical twist and enhances the overall flavor combination of this dish.

Cold Beer or Iced Tea

• Pairing with a chilled beer or iced tea refreshes the palate and complements the spice in the peanut sauce.

How to Perfect Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Perfecting your Thai Chicken Satay involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just one hour.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the authenticity of your satay.
• Soak Skewers Properly: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Grill at High Heat: Ensure your grill is properly preheated for a nice sear and smoky flavor.
• Baste While Cooking: Brush some extra marinade on during grilling for added moisture and taste.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your chicken satay warm off the grill for optimal flavor and texture.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair perfectly with Thai Chicken Satay. Each side enhances the flavors while providing variety.

1. Thai Coconut Rice
   Creamy coconut rice adds subtle sweetness that complements the spicy peanut sauce perfectly.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a great crunch alongside your satay.
3. Thai Mango Salad
   This vibrant salad combines sweet mango, crunchy vegetables, and zesty dressing for a refreshing side.
4. Tom Yum Soup
   A hot and sour soup like Tom Yum brings warmth and depth that pairs wonderfully with chicken satay.
5. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy option that balances out richer flavors in your meal.
6. Rice Noodle Salad
   A cold noodle salad tossed in a light dressing adds texture and is an excellent way to enjoy more fresh ingredients.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with spicy dishes like chicken satay.
8. Chili Garlic Edamame
   These protein-packed pods are seasoned simply yet flavorful, making them an easy addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold marinade mistakes: Many people skip marinating the chicken long enough. For best flavor, let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
• Bold sauce consistency: If the peanut sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the chicken well. Adjust with more hot water until you reach a creamy texture.
• Bold skewer preparation: Not soaking bamboo skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Bold cooking time errors: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Grill only 3 minutes per side or until just cooked through.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using regular sugar instead of palm sugar can alter the flavor profile. Stick to palm sugar or light brown sugar for authenticity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Dipping Sauce

• Place chicken skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce.

Can I use other proteins for satay?

You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or tofu for a different flavor profile while keeping the same marinating and cooking method.

How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?

To reduce spice in the peanut sauce, simply decrease the amount of Sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

What sides pair well with Thai Chicken Satay?

Thai Chicken Satay goes well with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables. These sides complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the peanut sauce two weeks ahead of time for convenience.

What if I don’t have lemongrass?

If lemongrass is unavailable, you can use lemon zest as a substitute to impart some citrus flavor to your marinade.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a delightful mix of flavors that appeals to everyone. It’s versatile enough for gatherings or a light meal at home. Feel free to customize the marinade or dipping sauce according to your preferences!