Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a delightful appetizer that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or any gathering, this dish features tender marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy spicy peanut sauce. The combination of savory and sweet with a hint of spice will leave your guests wanting more.

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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
• With Jasmine Rice
• With Cucumber Salad
• As Part of a Platter
• With Pickled Vegetables
• 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 Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different meats for Thai Chicken Satay?
• How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?
• What else can I serve with Thai Chicken Satay?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Flavorful Experience: The marinated chicken is bursting with bold flavors that excite the palate.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal; enjoy it any time!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The peanut sauce can be made in advance, saving you time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: They help hold the chicken while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
• Blender or food processor: These tools make creating the marinade quick and easy by blending all ingredients smoothly.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the perfect char and flavor to the satay.

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

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How to Make Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce

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

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

If using a charcoal grill, light one chimney full of charcoal. Once it’s covered with gray ash, pour it out and spread evenly over the coal grate. Set the cooking grate in place and preheat for about 5 minutes. Clean and oil the grilling grate to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked bamboo skewers. Grill for about 3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Transfer them to a platter and let rest for around 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your delicious chicken satay skewers warm alongside the spicy peanut sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Serving Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its bold flavors.

With Jasmine Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice complements the savory chicken satay beautifully and balances the spiciness of the peanut sauce.

With Cucumber Salad

• Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad with lime juice and a sprinkle of salt adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the satay.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Serve the chicken satay on a platter with other Thai appetizers, like spring rolls or dumplings, for a delightful variety.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy Pickled Vegetables: Pairing the satay with sweet and tangy pickled vegetables can brighten up the meal and provide a refreshing crunch.

How to Perfect Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Perfecting your Thai Chicken Satay requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate longer than recommended enhances the flavors even more. Aim for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemongrass and garlic will add more aromatic depth to your marinade compared to dried versions.
• Control Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated properly. A medium-high heat ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
• Soak Skewers Properly: Soaking bamboo skewers before grilling helps prevent them from burning, ensuring they hold up during cooking.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Thai Chicken Satay can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Thai Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice made with vegetables and a hint of soy sauce complements the satay perfectly.
2. Mango Sticky Rice: This traditional Thai dessert provides a sweet contrast to the savory satay, making it an ideal ending to your meal.
3. Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum): The tangy and spicy salad offers a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
4. Thai Coconut Soup (Tom Kha): The creamy coconut milk base brings richness that balances out the spices in the chicken satay.
5. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a crunchy, satisfying side that goes well with dipping sauces.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor that harmonizes nicely with the bold spices of the satay.
7. Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed green veggies provide color and nutrients while complementing the dish’s flavors beautifully.
8. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in peanut sauce create a delicious pairing that echoes flavors from both dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind. Avoiding these will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Marination: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour for maximum taste.
• Not Soaking Skewers: Using dry bamboo skewers can result in burning. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Grilling the chicken too long may make it tough and dry. Aim for about 3 minutes per side for juicy results.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not seasoning your peanut sauce to taste can make it too bland or overly spicy. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap sauces or old spices can ruin the dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Thai Chicken Satay and peanut sauce in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

• Place cooked chicken satay in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. The peanut sauce can also be frozen separately.

Reheating Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place satay on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different meats for Thai Chicken Satay?

You can definitely use different meats! Beef, pork, or even tofu work well in this recipe, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make the peanut sauce less spicy?

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

What else can I serve with Thai Chicken Satay?

Pair your satay with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables for a complete meal experience that enhances the flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the peanut sauce up to two weeks in advance for convenience.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is not only flavorful but also versatile as an appetizer or light meal. You can easily customize it by adjusting spices or adding more veggies. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!