Chicken Satay is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Southeast Asia right to your dinner table. With its tender chicken marinated in a rich, peanut-based sauce and then grilled to perfection, this recipe is not just easy to make but also perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Let’s explore how to prepare this crowd-pleaser guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 14 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Chicken Satay
Chicken Satay is a fantastic dish for several reasons. Not only is it packed with flavor thanks to the savory and slightly sweet marinade, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a part of a buffet at parties. The aroma of grilled chicken combined with the nutty scent of peanut sauce fills your kitchen, making it inviting and warm. Plus, it’s something different to serve at your next cookout, sure to impress family and friends.
How to Make Chicken Satay
Making Chicken Satay is straightforward, and with the right ingredients, you’ll have irresistible skewers on your table in no time. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and lime juice to create a marinade.
Step 2: Marinating
Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, marinate up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Cooking
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Step 4: Finishing
Serve the skewers hot with extra peanut sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Chicken Satay
Serve Chicken Satay with a side of jasmine rice, fresh cucumber salad, or a spicy Thai peanut sauce for added flavor. This dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a casual dinner. You can even add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Store Chicken Satay
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken skewers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay
- Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
- Marinade Time: For the most flavorful chicken, don’t rush the marinating step. Longer marinating deepens the flavor.
- Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Peanut Sauce: You can easily whip up a quick peanut sauce by mixing peanut butter, soy sauce, and a dash of lime juice for extra serving options.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Different Proteins: Try making satay with shrimp or beef for different flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they might dry out more easily, so ensure not to overcook. - How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes up to 24 hours for full flavor. - What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
A simple peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce complements Chicken Satay beautifully. - Is Chicken Satay gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. - Can I grill the chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can broil the skewers in the oven if you don’t have a grill. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Conclusion
Chicken Satay is not only a joy to eat but is also a fun dish to prepare. With its fragrant marinade and smoky grilled flavors, it’s bound to be a hit among your family and friends. Whether enjoyed at home or at a gathering, this recipe will make you feel like a culinary expert. So grab your skewers and try your hand at making this delicious Chicken Satay—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Chicken Satay
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
A delightful and flavorful Chicken Satay dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a rich peanut sauce and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and lime juice to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, marinate up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve the skewers hot with extra peanut sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
