Name: Savory Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe Ready in 25 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter; 1 can full-fat coconut milk; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil); to taste salt; to taste pepper

As the aroma of garlic fills your kitchen, you might find yourself transported to a bustling street market in Bangkok, where the air is rich with the scent of sizzling spices. Welcome to my Easy Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe, where everyday ingredients transform into a delightful culinary escape in under 30 minutes. This dish isn’t just quick; it’s a crowd-pleaser that provides comfort and a taste of adventure, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive gathering with friends. With a creamy peanut sauce that wraps around tender chicken, this meal is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to bring a taste of Thailand into your home? Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Thai Peanut Chicken Special?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for busy people, allowing you to whip up a flavorful meal in just 25 minutes.

Luscious Sauce: The rich, creamy peanut sauce is a game-changer, transforming simple chicken into a gourmet dish.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein—shrimp or tofu are great alternatives!

Healthy Comfort Food: With wholesome ingredients and gluten-free options, it’s a feel-good choice that satisfies without the guilt.

Impressive Presentation: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will delight guests and leave them asking for seconds!

Pair it with jasmine rice or explore other favorites like Spicy Peanut Chicken for more culinary adventures!

Thai Peanut Chicken Ingredients

• The following ingredients will help you create a mouthwatering Thai Peanut Chicken experience!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Provides protein and structure; opt for boneless, skinless for easy prep.

For the Sauce

Fresh Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; always choose fresh over powdered for the best flavor.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Contributes savoriness; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Creamy Natural Peanut Butter – Creates a smooth, rich sauce; natural blends better with coconut milk.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Offers creaminess to the sauce; substitute with heavy cream, but note the flavor change.

For Cooking

Vegetable Oil – Ideal for cooking; any neutral oil like canola works well.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; essential for seasoning.

This easy Thai Peanut Chicken recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying—let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to mingle. Let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the seasoning, creating a flavorful base for your Easy Thai Peanut Chicken.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more vegetable oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. This step infuses your Easy Thai Peanut Chicken with delightful aromas, preparing the foundation for the sauce.

Step 4: Make Sauce
Pour the low-sodium soy sauce into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits to enhance the flavor. Stir in the creamy natural peanut butter until it melts and combines with the soy sauce. Gradually pour in the full-fat coconut milk while continuously stirring to achieve a smooth consistency, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat the pieces in the luscious sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors meld together and ensuring the chicken is heated through. The sauce should be warm and inviting, ready to be served.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the Easy Thai Peanut Chicken to plates or bowls. Serve immediately over jasmine rice or noodles, and feel free to garnish with chopped green onions or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor. This dish is sure to impress anyone at your table!

How to Store and Freeze Thai Peanut Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of coconut milk to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: This Thai Peanut Chicken freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, cool completely before sealing, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce components up to 2 days in advance, making meal prep a breeze! Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What to Serve with Easy Thai Peanut Chicken?

Elevate your homemade dining experience by pairing delightful flavors and textures to complement this creamy, delicious dish.

Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that absorbs the rich peanut sauce beautifully, creating a perfect balance with every bite.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp and colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas add freshness and crunch, enhancing the meal’s vitality and taste.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers a cool contrast to the spicy peanut flavors, cleansing the palate with each delicious bite.
Peanut Noodles: These noodles, tossed with a light peanut sauce, echo the main dish’s flavors, making a satisfying and cohesive meal experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic Thai treat features sweet mango and creamy coconut rice, leaving a touch of sweetness to end the meal on a high note.
Thai Iced Tea: A delightful drink that balances the richness of the peanut sauce while providing a touch of sweetness and spice. Enjoy the soothing flavors that make your dinner feel complete!

Thai Peanut Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Thai Peanut Chicken your own with these delightful twists and easy swaps!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for an exciting heat. This flavorful twist might just awaken your taste buds and transport you to a Thai street food stall.
Veggie Power: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to boost nutrition and color. These vibrant veggies add a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef in place of chicken for different textures and flavors. Each protein has its own charm; shrimp offers a delicate sweetness while tofu absorbs all the fabulous sauce.
Nut-Free Options: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but still deliciously creamy!
Coconut Creaminess: For a dairy-free delight, you can substitute heavy cream with more coconut milk or use almond milk, keeping it smooth and silky without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Infusion: Add fresh ginger or lemongrass for an aromatic boost that will brighten the overall dish. These ingredients bring a vibrant zing that can elevate your meal to new heights.
Noodle Variety: Instead of rice, serve your Thai Peanut Chicken over zucchini noodles or rice noodles for a gluten-free option that adds an extra layer of fun to the meal. They’ll soak up all that luscious sauce beautifully!
Herb Enhancements: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil to infuse a fresh herbal note. The fresh herbs will not only enhance the aroma but also add a burst of refreshing flavor.

Looking for more delightful options? Don’t miss out on trying the Chicken Satay Peanut or the vibrant flavors of Tandoori Chicken for a culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Easy Thai Peanut Chicken in advance is a wonderful way to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce—combining the garlic, soy sauce, peanut butter, and coconut milk—up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the chicken and season it, keeping it ready to go for up to 24 hours before cooking. To ensure the best quality, refrigerate everything until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply heat the sauce and cook the chicken as directed, resulting in a delicious meal that’s just as flavorful with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Thai Peanut Chicken

Browning Chicken: Ensure the chicken is browned properly to develop rich flavors. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this prevents even cooking.
Stirring Sauce: To achieve a smooth and creamy peanut sauce, always stir continuously when adding coconut milk to prevent separation.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your peanut butter and coconut milk come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a silkier texture in your sauce.
Taste as You Go: As each ingredient varies in saltiness, be sure to taste throughout the cooking process. Adjust the seasonings for your Thai Peanut Chicken to suit your preference.
Add Heat: For those who love a spicy kick, feel free to mix in red pepper flakes or sriracha to the peanut sauce. This will elevate your dish to the next level!

Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation. They cook quickly and remain tender in the rich, creamy sauce. If you’re looking for variety, feel free to substitute with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef!

How should I store leftover Thai Peanut Chicken?
Store any leftover Thai Peanut Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove and consider adding a splash of coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Thai Peanut Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure it’s completely cool before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of coconut milk if necessary.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The pieces should be golden brown on the outside. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to confirm doneness while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make the Thai Peanut Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari. Always check labels on your peanut butter and other sauces to ensure they are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten as a stabilizer.

What can I add to this dish for extra flavor or nutrition?
Feel free to customize your Thai Peanut Chicken by adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. They not only enhance the dish’s nutritional value but also add vibrant colors and textures. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha is a fantastic way to amp up the flavor!