Description
Braised Nutty Satay Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender boneless chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, aromatic peanut sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and spices. This comforting meal is perfect served over rice or noodles and garnished with crunchy chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Satay Sauce
- ½ cup peanut butter (smooth)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup coconut milk
Garnish and Serving
- Chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor and ensure a nice sear.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5 minutes per side until each side is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for approximately 1 minute until fragrant, releasing their flavors into the oil.
- Make the Satay Sauce: Stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, coconut milk, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and evenly combined.
- Braise the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, coating them well with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 30 minutes to allow the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavors.
- Check for Doneness: After the 30-minute braise, ensure the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. If desired, extend the simmering time slightly to deepen the flavor.
- Rest the Dish: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest, covered, for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro on top of the chicken to add a refreshing crunch and herbal brightness.
- Serve: Serve the braised nutty satay chicken over cooked rice or noodles, spooning extra sauce generously over the top to complete this hearty meal.
Notes
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Use smooth peanut butter for a creamier sauce; chunky can be used for texture.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
