Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is one of my absolute favorite recipes with the most addicting Peanut Sauce ever!
Chicken Satay should be a staple in your kitchen with its juicy, marinated skewered chicken layered with flavor all dunked in creamy, intoxicating peanut satay sauce. Satay is a popular restaurant appetizer or dish – but NOW it can be favorite dish made in your kitchen! I’ve included recipe instructions for baking Chicken Satay or indoor/outdoor grilling (and pics of both) so you can make this Thai Chicken Satay recipe year-round – because you will want to devour it year-round! I am specifically posting this recipe RIGHT NOW, because these delectable chicken skewers make a show-stopping Christmas or New Year’s Eve holiday appetizer!
Watch: How to make Satay Chicken
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I crave this Chicken Satay Recipe ALL THE TIME
People often ask me what my favorite recipe is. That is virtually an impossible question as it changes depending on my mood, and even then there are too many ties for “favorites.”
But you know what I crave absolutely ALL the time? even if I have already made it twice in one week to perfect the recipe – This Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce! It is juicy, tangy chicken with a creamy dipping sauce exploding with multi-dimensional peanut flavor.
There are many variations of chicken satay recipes, which in essence, means chicken marinated in spices, skewered and grilled, but to me, it is all about the Peanut Sauce, this peanut sauce.
I can even back up my opinion: in 2017 CNN did a survey and satay came in 14th on the worlds best foods -of ALL the foods out there 14th! That’s pretty amazing in my book – and accurate.
I am absolutely obsessed with peanut sauce from my wraps to tacos to skillet chicken. And even though I have shared many other recipes with peanut sauce, I find this straightforward easy recipe with just marinated chicken + peanut sauce every bit as delicious.
So get ready for the tastiest, EASIEST Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce of your life!
What is Satay? Where does it come from?
Short answer – Heaven. Now for the long answer, Chicken Satay comes from Java Indonesia. The peanut sauce is also linked to Indo roots. I chuckled when I found out that even McDonald’s has done right by the Indonesian culture. They serve their ‘Burger sate’ with a peanut sauce, beef patty in a bun.
Javanese street vendors developed Satay as a variation of Indian kebabs. The introduction of satay based on meats such as goat and lamb, coincided with an increase of Indian and Arab traders and immigrants starting in the 18th century.
From Java, satay spread throughout the Malay Archipelago and, as a yummy result, numerous variations of the dish have been developed. By the late-19th century, satay had crossed the Strait of Malacca into neighboring Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Each Country and region has its own variation and added dipping sauces and marinades.
What does satay taste like?
Asking what Chicken Satay taste like is technically asking what marinated chicken taste like – which means, it tastes like all the amazing goodness it is marinated in!
This fabulous chicken satay marinade starts with a base of soy sauce and is infused with fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili paste and hand-picked seasoning of basil, coriander, ginger, garlic and turmeric.
It creates a salty, savory, tangy chicken with a kiss of sweet. It is far tangier than teriyaki chicken and boasts a far more complex flavor profile than any Chinese chickens – that is why I love it so much!
The Chicken Satay emerges unbelievably juicy and boasts a smoky undertone if cooked on the grill but is still delightful if baked instead.
What Does Peanut Satay Sauce Taste Like?
Technically, Chicken Satay is just the chicken, but I live for the marriage of chicken AND peanut sauce in every bite.
So what does the Peanut Satay Sauce taste like? Do not assume it tastes like your PB and J from grade school. Instead, this Peanut Sauce is everything perfect about peanut butter and all its nutty, luscious glory but infused with ginger, garlic and lime to name a few wonderful notes. It is creamy, tangy, salty, savory and as spicy as you like it. It is LIFE.
Chicken Satay Recipe ingredients
The ingredient list for this Chicken Satay and Peanut Sauce might seem long, but you are whisking everything together once (and add peanut butter later) and that’s ALL your prep for this ridiculously delicious satay recipe! Here is what you need:
- chicken: you can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs for this Chicken Satay recipe. I tend to use chicken breasts because they are leaner and emerge wonderfully juicy with this marinade but thighs are inherently more juicy so they also fabulous. Keep in mind that light meat will cook faster than dark meat so it isn’t a good idea to combine on one skewer.
- soy sauce: grounds the sauce and adds the salty, savory undertone. Please use low sodium soy sauce so your sauce isn’t too salty.
- fish sauce: fish sauce is a staple in Asian cooking and imparts a fabulous umami flavor. that cannot be achieved in any other way. I promise, it will not make your Satay taste fishy! Just don’t be tempted to smell it :).
- lime: you may use fresh or bottled lime juice. Fresh is always best. I will freeze lime juice in cubes so I always have some on hand.
- brown sugar: adds sweetness to balance the soy, fish sauce and lime juice.
- ginger: adds a warm spicy, almost pepper taste. I used ground ginger because you only need ½ teaspoon and because I want the peanut sauce to be silky smooth without bits of ginger or garlic.
- garlic: I also used garlic powder for the same reasons as the ginger. I don’t recommend raw garlic because we are doubling the marinade and making it part of our Peanut Satay Sauce.
- dried basil: basil is quintessential to Thai cuisine. It adds a layer of savory, peppery and slightly minty flavor.
- ground coriander: adds a toasty, lemony citrus flavor that I use to mimic lemongrass.
- turmeric: adds gingery, punchy, earthy undertones.
- Asian chili paste: adds a little heat and rounds out the flavors but will NOT make your Chicken Satay taste spicy at all. You can customize the spice level of your Peanut Satay Sauce by adding additional chili sauce to taste.
Chicken Satay Marinade ingredients
The Peanut Satay Sauce is made by simmering some of the reserved Chicken Satay marinade then whisking in peanut butter. So, it is made from soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, basil, coriander, turmeric, Asian chili paste and of course – PEANUT BUTTER!
Creamy peanut butter adds a nutty earthiness and creaminess that marries all the ingredients together. Natural peanut butter is 100% peanuts and has a stronger peanut flavor. Commercial peanut butter has sugar and other additives but both will work for the Peanut Satay Sauce.
Just be aware that commercial peanut butter is thinner, so you will need less water to thin and natural is thicker, so you will need to add more water to reach silky consistency.
You can substitute the peanut butter with 1 cup raw unsalted peanuts blitzed until smooth with ½ cup or so coconut milk.
Chicken Satay Recipe variations
You can customize the skewers and the Peanut Sauce to suit your personal tastes:
- Add vegetables: Make chicken satay veggie kabobs by adding your favorite veggies. Try bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, mushrooms, etc.
- Add pineapple: Try adding pineapple to the skewers like I do in my Pineapple Chicken Satay Recipe.
- Swap protein: This Chicken Satay recipe would also be delicious with steak or pork.
You can can make the Peanut Sauce spicier, sweeter, more savory, tangier, less tangy, etc. Here’s how:
- For sweeter: Add more brown sugar
- For saltier: Add more fish sauce or soy sauce
- For tangier: Add more lime juice
- For spicier: Add chili sauce
- For thinner: Add coconut milk or water
- For thicker: Add a cornstarch slurry
Do I have to use Chicken?
No! As Satay jumped over oceans and rivers, people adapted the recipe with what they had around them. Most any meat can be used, even cow intestines if you dare. Or keep it simple with chicken, pork, shrimp, and beef. Just be aware that different proteins have different cooking times. The last thing you want to do is ruin our satay by overcooking it!
How to Make Chicken Satay
This Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce comes together super quickly because the chicken marinade and the peanut satay are made with the SAME ingredients you whisk together once! As in, all your prep is literally done in minutes!
Once you stir together your mouthwatering concoction of soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, chili paste, ginger, garlic, basil, coriander and tumeric (drool!) your prep is almost done!
Part of the sauce becomes your marinade and the rest becomes the base of your Peanut Sauce. Now, all you do is simmer the reserved Sauce for a minute while your chicken is either baking or grilling then whisk in some peanut butter – done!
How to Grill Chicken Satay
The most important aspect of cooking chicken with any method is not to overcook it – no one wants dry chicken! I recommend investing in an instant-read thermometer so you know exactly when your chicken is done so you can pull it off the heat immediately. For this Chicken Satay recipe, just a few minutes on each side is plenty.
- Grease an indoor or outdoor grill and heat to high heat.
- Once hot, add chicken, reduce heat to medium and cover.
- Grill chicken approximately 4 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
How to make Chicken Satay on the stove
Yes! This Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is so good that I wanted it to be accessible year round, so I’ve included instructions for skillet or oven cooking. These pics are of both baked Chicken Satay (without the grill marks) and grilled satay.
I know stove top or baking satay might seem sacrilegious to some, but the chicken satay emerges incredibly juicy and ensures everyone, even those without an indoor grill, can taste the marinated spiced chicken and delectable, creamy, multi-dimensional peanut sauce at any time.
- Heat 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat.
- Working in batches, add skewers and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
To bake Chicken Satay:
Baking Chicken Satay is super simple because you can place the skewered chicken in your oven and forget about them for 15 minutes instead of babysitting the grill or stove. But whether you bake, grill or cook your easy Thai Chicken Satay on the stove, I know you are going love it!
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Line two baking sheets with foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Evenly divide chicken between baking sheets. Make sure there is room in between the chicken so your chicken bakes and doesn’t steam.
- Bake 15-20 minutes OR until chicken is cooked (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
Thai Chicken with Peanut Sauce tips
- Soak the wooden skewers before grilling them or else they will catch on fire. I start soaking before doing anything else, then they can be soaking while the chicken is marinating – and you don’t have to worry about it last minute. When ready to use, just thread the chicken on, no need to dry them first.
- I find it easiest to cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create chicken fillets, then slice into strips.
- The difference between great and FABULOUS results with this Chicken Satay recipe is the marinating time. I would not marinate the chicken less than 6 hours. Try and plan for the full 24 hours if possible because the longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and juicy it will become.
- Remove the chicken from refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. This helps the chicken to cook more evenly.
- The Peanut Satay Satay has a peanut butter range of 1/3-½ cup. I find this is necessary due to readers’ personal preference and which peanut butter is used. I personally like the full ½ cup peanut butter and thin with additional coconut milk, but it is up to you!
- You can use water or coconut milk in the Peanut Satay Sauce if you don’t want to crack open a can for ¼ cup, but the subtle coconut flavor is sensational.
- As mentioned, you need to adjust the consistency of the Peanut Sauce with either additional peanut butter or coconut milk/water. It should be thick but pourable.
- If you have extra peanut sauce, you can thin it out and toss it with noodles, or serve it over rice or with vegetables. You can also use it as a salad dressing!
- Looking for a fun presentation? Dress up the platter with chopped cilantro, basil leaves, crushed peanuts and a swirl of Sriracha in the dipping bowl.
Storing Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
To store: Remove the chicken from the skewers to an airtight container. Store the chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
To reheat: To warm in on the stove, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and heat over medium low heat. Add chicken and sauté to warm through. To heat in the microwave, reheat at 30-second intervals, taking care not to overcook. To reheat in the oven, cover chicken skewers with foil and reheat in the oven for 5-8 minutes at 350 degrees F or just until warmed through.
Thai Satay FAQs
Chicken is a lean, heart healthy protein so Chicken Satay itself is healthy. The Peanut Satay Sauce contains nutrient-packed ingredients but it is also also high in calories and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation. If you stick to small servings, your diet won’t be derailed.
It’s also important to think about what you’re eating with that peanut sauce. Skinless poultry or tofu and fresh vegetables won’t add many calories to the dish and will give you a healthy dose of protein, vitamins and minerals, but pouring the sauce onto a food that’s already high in fat, such as beef or sautéed noodles, could add hundreds more calories and a dozen or more fat grams.
If you’re watching your weight, keep serving sizes small and make sure your plate has balance with items from several different food groups.
You can also try no sugar peanut butter with sesame oil to make it lower in fat and sugar.
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is not gluten free as written due to the soy sauce. You can easily make it gluten free by substituting gluten free soy sauce. Also double check your peanut butter is gluten free.
Yes! My recipes both are dairy free.
The word “satay” is pronounced as “sa-tay.” The first syllable, “sa,” is pronounced like the word “saw” without the “w” sound. The second syllable, “tay,” rhymes with the English word “day.” Together, it’s pronounced “sa-tay.”
Satay is not spicy, but more on the salty, savory, tangy, sweet side with a rich peanut flavor. However, it does have a gentle kiss of heat thanks to the Asian chili sauce in the marinade. If you’d like it spicier, add additional chili sauce; for less spicy, add less chili sauce.
Chicken with Peanut Sauce storage
CAN I PREP CHICKEN SATAY AND PEANUT SAUCE In ADVANCE?
Yes! This Chicken Satay makes a fabulous make ahead dinner or appetizer because you can prepare everything up to 24 hours in advance then just grill the chicken when its “go” time.
- Marinade: whisk the marinade ingredients and store in an airtight container up to 5 days in advance. This chicken loves to marinate so you can have it bathe in the refrigerator for 24 hours before you cook it.
- Peanut Satay Sauce: The peanut sauce will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week stored in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the microwave or over low heat on the stove top. If the sauce gets too thick, whisk in water or coconut milk until the desired consistency is achieved.
Can I Freeze Chicken Satay, Marinade and Peanut sauce?
Yes, yes, and yes! To freeze:
- Satay Marinade: Whisk together, add to a freezer bag, label and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Chicken Satay: After you have cooked the Chicken Satay, you can remove the skewers or not, I prefer to remove them so I can get more Satay to a container. Let the chicken cool completely before storing in airtight freezer container. Can be frozen for 2 to 3 months.
- Peanut satay sauce: The peanut sauce freezes well, so I usually make a double or triple batch and freeze leftover sauce in 1-cup portions for use in making a fast meal in the future. The sauce can be defrosted by moving it from the freezer to the fridge the day before you need it.
How to serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Chicken Satay is fabulously flavorful served as skewers, or have some fun with the leftovers!
- Chicken Satay Rice Bowls: top jasmine rice, coconut rice, or cauliflower rice with Chicken Satay, stir fried vegetables, peanuts, chopped pineapple and a simple creamy sriracha sauce pineapple sriracha crema I used in these teriyaki bowls.
- Chicken Satay Tacos: I have a whole post dedicated to this idea! Use my Thai Chicken Tacos as a guide and add the Chicken Satay to tortillas and top with pineapple broccoli slaw, or pineapple salsa.
- Chicken Satay Quesadillas: Add to quesadillas along with Monterrey Jack cheese and pineapple.
- Chicken Satay Pizza: like the Thai pizza at CPK! Use this Thai Chicken Pizza recipe as a guide and top store-bought pizza dough, homemade pizza dough, flatbread or sliced French bread with peanut sauce, mozzarella cheese, red onions, matchstick carrots, sprouts, etc.
What is served with Thai Satay?
Chicken Satay is usually served with peanut sauce, but if peanuts are not your thing or you have an allergy – try these other Thai and Asian sauces:
- hoisin sauce
- blackberry hoisin sauce
- Asian sweet chili sauce
- pineapple sweet and sour sauce
- mango honey dip
- sriracha mango honey dip
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is typically served as an appetizer at restaurants but we usually make it a meal jasmine rice, pineapple, stir fried veggies and/or an Asian Salad.
If you want to create full Asian feast, you can serve Chicken Satay with Wontons, Pot stickers or Sweet and Sour Chicken Egg Rolls followed by any of the following:
- Red Curry Chicken
- Chicken Pad Thai
- Panang Curry
- Yellow Curry
- Thai Chicken Noodle Soup
- Tom Kha Gai
- Coconut Curry Chicken
- Peanut Pineapple Thai Chicken Satay
- Thai Coconut Chicken Rice Soup
Now, I hope you ring in the New Year with this baked or grilled Thai Chicken Satay with its deep and rich creamy, savory, Peanut Sauce and continue to love it year round. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs* sliced into 1 1/2″ wide strips by 3-5″ long
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup coconut milk plus more as needed (may sub water)
- 1/3-1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 12-15 skewers
Marinade/Sauce
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (like Sambal Oelek)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
Instructions
- Whisk together the Marinade/Sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Remove ⅓ cup to a freezer size bag and whisk in 3 tablespoons olive oil (for the marinade). Add chicken and toss to evenly coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 6 hours up to overnight. Refrigerate remaining marinade/sauce separately – this will become the base of your Peanut Sauce.
- When ready to cook, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, remove chicken from refrigerator to bring to room temperature. Thread chicken onto skewers and lightly dab excess marinade off with paper towels.
- OVEN: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Evenly divide chicken between baking sheets. Bake 15-20 minutes OR until chicken is cooked through being careful not to overcook or chicken will not be as tender (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
- GRILL: Grease an indoor or outdoor grill and heat to high heat. Once hot, add chicken, reduce heat to medium, cover and grill chicken 3-4 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
- SKILLET: Heat 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Working in batches, add skewers and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
- Add reserved Sauce to a small saucepan along with ¼ cup coconut milk OR 3 tablespoons water. Bring to a boil then simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat then stir in ⅓ cup peanut butter until completely combined then add additional peanut butter if desired for a thicker/more nutty sauce OR water or coconut milk 1 tablespoon at a time for a thinner sauce. Taste and add additional chili sauce if desired for a spicier sauce.
- Serve chicken warm with Peanut Sauce for an appetizer or also serve with rice/veggies for a main course.
Video
Notes
TIPS AND TRICKS
- *Chicken thighs will be juicier.Â
- Soak the wooden skewers before grilling them or else they will catch on fire. I start soaking before doing anything else, then they can be soaking while the chicken is marinating – and you don’t have to worry about it last minute. When ready to use, just thread the chicken on, no need to dry them first.
- I find it easiest to cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create chicken fillets, then slice into strips.
- The difference between great and FABULOUS results with this Chicken Satay recipe is the marinating time. I would not marinate the chicken less than 6 hours. Try and plan for the full 24 hours if possible because the longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and juicy it will become.
- Remove the chicken from refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. This helps the chicken to cook more evenly.
- The Peanut Satay Satay has a peanut butter range of 1/3-½ cup. I find this is necessary due to readers’ personal preference and which peanut butter is used. I personally like the full ½ cup peanut butter and thin with additional coconut milk, but it is up to you!
- You can use water or coconut milk in the Peanut Satay Sauce. It is only 2 tablespoons, plus more as needed, so it won’t have a huge impact on flavor.
- As mentioned, you need to adjust the consistency of the Peanut Sauce with either additional peanut butter or coconut milk/water. It should be thick but pourable.
- If you have extra peanut sauce, you can thin it out and toss it with noodles, or serve it over rice or with vegetables. You can also use it as a salad dressing!
- Looking for a fun presentation? Dress up the platter with chopped cilantro, basil leaves, crushed peanuts and a swirl of Sriracha in the dipping bowl.
HOW TO PREP IN ADVANCE
- Marinade: whisk the marinade ingredients and store in an airtight container up to 5 days in advance. This chicken loves to marinate so you can have satay bathing in the refrigerator for a 24 hours before you cook it.
- Peanut Satay Sauce: The peanut sauce will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week stored in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the microwave or over low heat on the stove top. If the sauce gets too thick, whisk in water or coconut milk until the desired consistency is achieved.
HOW TO FREEZE
- Marinade: Whisk together, add to a freezer bag, label and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Chicken Satay: After you have cooked the Satay you can remove the skewers or not, I prefer to remove them so I can get more Satay to a container. Let the chicken cool completely before storing in airtight freezer container. Can be frozen for 2 to 3 months.
- Peanut satay sauce: The peanut sauce freezes well, so I usually make a double or triple batch and freeze leftover sauce in 1-cup portions for use in making a fast meal in the future. The sauce can be defrosted by moving it from the freezer to the fridge the day before you need it.
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Shannon says
I’ve been looking for the perfect Christmas Eve appetizer and this is it! I am so happy you posted this today! Than you!
Jen says
you are so welcome Shannon! I am so excited you are going to make this for Christmas Eve, I think you are really going to love it! Merry Christmas!
Katie says
Hi Jen thanks for no doubt another winning recipe! Your Pineapple Peanut Chicken Satay is one of my favorite recipes but I only make it in the summer so I am excited to be able to make this one right now. I am going to make it for New Years and I know it is going to be a hit. Thanks for all your awesomeness!
Jen says
What a kind comment, thanks Katie! I am so happy you love the Pineapple Peanut Chicken Satay so much and I have a feeling you will love this one too! It will be the perfect New Year’s appetizer! Thanks for making my recipes! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Kara says
I can’t wait to try this chicken! Plan on making it for New Year’s Eve …and most likely before, I’m sure. 😉 I know in your post you discuss the “benefits” of baking the chicken (totally agree, by the way), but if you had to choose your favorite method, would it be grilling or baked? Thanks!!
Jen says
Hi Kara, on vacation for the holidays and just getting to comments! Baking and grilling are both delicious. This makes quite a few skewers so baking is definitely more convenient but I like the char from the grill more. So if convenience/time isn’t an issue then I would grill 🙂 Hope that helps! Happy New Year!
Bridget or Wagner says
Hi Jen! How do you defrost and reheat frozen chicken satay?
Jen says
I would thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat skewers by wrapping them in foil and baking at 325 for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through or removing the chicken from the skewers and reheating in a skillet. Hope this helps!
Charmaine says
Is the fish sauce absolutely necessary? I really hate the taste of it. Wondering if there is a substitute for it. Thanks!!
Jen says
Hi Charmaine, I promise it is perfect in this recipe and blends with all the other ingredients but you could substitute soy sauce 🙂
April says
I am so excited to try this recipe. Do you think I can make it without the fish sauce? I am sure it is in my head. It I can’t handle fish sauce. And if so should I replace it with anything (maybe chicken broth)?
Jen says
Hi April! I would substitute it with soy sauce – should still be delicious. Enjoy!
Siuyin says
Hi what type of dry basil do you used?
Jen says
I use the one by McCormick 🙂
Mark Novack says
I am cooking this for dinner tonight. I could not find the wooden skewers. Do they actually add anything to the meal, or are they just something used traditionally in Satay?
Jen says
Hi Mark! The skewers help them cook evenly but you definitely don’t need them! I would just flip the chicken once and you are good!
lynette hair says
Do you have a cookbook with all of these wonderful recipes ,I would love to get my hands on it if so, thank you!
Jen says
Thanks for our kind words Lynette! I don’t have plans for a cookbook but I’ll let you know if my plans change :).
Christina says
Omg this was so good! Didn’t change a thing! Measurements are spot on, flavor is perfect! Great recipe!!!
Jen says
Thank you so much Christina! I’m thrilled you found the chicken satay recipe perfect! xo
D says
I have to say, every single recipe I have tried of yours so far has been very very well received by everyone that has eaten it. My 5yo has even liked them all and she is the hardest one because she usually just wants everything plain to get more ketchup into her mouth!
Jen says
That is awesome, thank you so much! If my recipes are liked by your toughest critic, then that has to be the ultimate compliment!
Lauren says
Hi! My concern is that you only use 1/4 cup soya sauce in the recipe and then set aside 1/3 cup for the marinade? Am I not reading this right? Thanks
Jen says
Hi Lauren, the marinade quantity increases once you add thee rest of the ingredients. The 1/3 cup will be the majority and the small amount left behind is all you need for the base of the sauce because it’s very strong.
Tanya says
This was such a hit with the whole family! I’m making it again, twice in the same week! Lol. Your recipes have never let me down! You make meal planning, cooking, and just my life overall easier. Thank you so much 🙂
Lots of love
Jen says
YAY! I’m thrilled this chicken satay was such a hit you’re already making it again! Thank you for taking the time to comment and make my day- I’m honored my recipes are making your life easier!
Millican Pecan says
I’m so glad I happened upon this recipe when visiting your site! I order a chicken satay salad at my favorite Thai restaurant (called the “Bali Salad”)…they serve it over greens, sliced cucumbers, small julienned carrots, and peanuts. The sauce/dressing is on the side. Thanks to your recipe, I am inspired to make this at home!
Jen says
Awesome, I hope you love it as much as your restaurant version!
Darrell says
Thank you for sharing the chicken satay recipe. It is the real deal everyone absolutely loved it.
Jen says
Awesome Darell, thank you so much!
Kaaren says
I have to tell you, I enjoy your recipes so much I have a board on Pinterest called Carlsbad Cravings. I’m a seasoned cook but adore finding new “cooks” that have the same taste as my family. Check it out
pinterest.com/kaarena
Jen says
Thank you so much Kaarena, I am SO honored you have a Pinterest Board dedicated to my recipes! I know exactly what you mean about finding cooks with the same palate – we have great taste 😉 xoxo
Stacey says
Karen, I also have a Pinterest board called Carlsbad Cravings!
Jen says
Love it! So flattered!
Mary Ann says
I made this with boneless , skinless chicken thighs !! AMAZING ! Didn’t have the wooden skewers and did it
in the oven . Can’t wait to try it on the BBQ when weather is friendlier. Thank You again for another wonderful recipe.
THAT SAUCE IS TO DIE FOR :))
Jen says
Thank you SO much Mary Ann, I love hearing how much you loved it!
Amanda says
This recipe is absolutely amazing. I have made it several times and it is always wonderful. I have made it both on skewers on the grill and on the stove top as chicken strips and both ways are amazing. I always serve it with sautéed vegetables and couscous. I end up making the marinade twice so that I can pour part of the marinade over the veggies. Perfection!
Jen says
Thank you so much, Amanda! I am so happy this is a repeat favorite! I have been working my way through a backlog of comments and see yours somehow got lost in the mix! I appreciate you and hope you’re well!
Shelley says
The chicken peanut satay is perfect. The way you blend spices and sauces is so creative and delicious. You are my favorite recipe website.
Jen says
Thank you so much Shelley for your comment! I’m honored you’re enjoying my recipes so much, thank you!!!
Tammy Jaben says
This sounds amazing but my kiddos can’t have peanuts. Do you think sunflower seed butter would be an ok substitute? Thx!
Jen says
Hi Tammy, I think it would work just expect a prominent sunflower seed taste vs. peanut butter. Good luck!
Jennie says
Trying for the first time! Question, when you say take 1/3 cup out of the marinade and whisk in the olive oil, is this added to the cup you take out? Or to what’s left in the bowl? And which do you add the chicken to?
Jen says
Hi Jennie! “Remove 1/3 cup to a freezer size bag and whisk in 3 tablespoons olive oil” means to whisk the 1/3 cup with the 3 tablespoons olive oil – this is what you add the chicken to as you want olive oil in the marinade, not the sauce. enjoy!
Julia says
These skewers look amazing. I’ve been looking for new grilling ideas so thanks for the recipe!
Jen says
You’r so welcome! I hope you love them as much as us!
ann says
does the oil go in the marinade or the sauce?
Jen says
The marinade (you can watch the video for clarification). Enjoy!
Rhonda says
This is by far the most informative Satay recipe I have found and love ! I am usually very impatient to get to the recipe and scroll thru what I call the “blah,blah,blah” ! Well folks this is the most informative, educational and enjoyable “blah, blah, blah” you will ever read…..right down to why ground ginger and not fresh. It was a true education leaving me with not only confidence in the recipe but an uptick in my culinary skills !
Jen says
Thank you Rhonda, you made my day! I’m so pleased you found the post informative, helpful and interesting!
Paula says
Just made this tonight. I really liked it but my husband LOVED it. He poured the peanut sauce on the rice, the veggies, the chicken, he practically drank it! I think next time, just to see, I’ll cut the peanut butter some in the sauce. I think peanut butter is very pronounced anyway so I’ll see if it could take just a bit less to allow the other flavors to pop a bit more.
Jen says
Thanks Paula, I’m so happy your husband loved it so much! Hopefully next time you can make it perfect for you too! good luck!
Kathy says
I’m concerned about marinating chicken in fresh lime juice…..Would that cook the chicken and make it mushy?
BTW, I love your recipes(I use several of them) and your educational articles.
Jen says
Thanks for your kind words Kathy! It is a small amount of lime juice so it doesn’t make it mushy, promise!
Susan says
Hi Jen and Happy New Year!!
I would love to make this delicious-looking recipe but I have a dumb question: is the coconut milk the thick one used in drinks or just coconut milk? I want to make sure I get the correct one.
Many thanks!
I love all your recipes and especially the blah, blah, blahs 🙂 !
Susan
Jen says
Happy New Year Susan! No dumb questions! The coconut milk is not cream of coconut used in drinks but the one in the can like this one HERE.
Amanda says
Made this for the 3rd time….fabulous!! My kids love this! Taste better than a restaurant! I didn’t marinade long..maybe 3.5 hrs still delicious. Had jasmine rice and spinach as sides. The peanut sauce delicious on all of it.
Jen says
Thank you so much Amanda, I love hearing this has become a repeat favorite! I’m obsessed with the peanut sauce too!
CJ says
I’ve always loved chicken peanut satay and this recipe is a real winner. We always have these ingredients on hand, so this is going “into rotation” at our house!
Jen says
Thanks Carol, I’m so pleased it’s a new repeat favorite!
Kim says
Best peanut sauce I’ve ever made!
Jen says
I’m so happy to hear that, thanks Kim!
Erica says
This recipe is in our permanent rotation. I skip the skewers (ain’t nobody got time for that, haha!) and just use boneless, skinless thighs and it’s terrific! All 6 kiddos will happily eat it up. Can’t ask for better than that!
Jen says
I’m so glad it’s a family favorite! Love that you just skip the skewers!
Jill says
Delicious big hit and was told I could make this recipe again.
Jen says
That’s what we like to hear, thanks Jill!
AMI says
THIS WAS AMAZING! I used coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and I was out of coriander, so I used garam masala that had it as the first ingredient. I let the chicken marinade for 24 hours and then we grilled them. SO SO good! Thanks for a great recipe!
Jen says
You are so welcome, I’m thrilled you loved it so much!
Kirsten Ferguson says
Wow! So glad I found your website! I now have a long list of your recipes I cannot wait to try. I made this recipe for three generations of mothers at our Mother’s Day Brunch buffet. The family was surprised and delighted with the flavors and a diversion from my traditional brunch menu. I marinated the chicken overnight and grilled the skewers on my indoor smokeless grill. I forgot to pick up coriander at the store so did not include that ingredient. I used Ottogi Bibim Sauce as the chili paste which worked well and was not too spicy. Thanks for the all the tips and info, they are incredible. I made the sauce with more peanut butter and thinned it with more coconut milk and it was perfect. I also made your Peanut Noodles (without the chicken) to accompany the Satay. It was all amazing! I will be making many more of your recipes!
Jen says
I am so glad you found my website and the recipes did not disappoint! Thank you so much for the glowing review, Kirsten, I hope you and your family had a wonderful Mother’s Day!
Katherine says
So you didn’t specify any cooking instructions???
Jen says
Yes I do. They are at the bottom of every post. Scroll down, or hold down the “jump to recipe” button at the top of the page to skip to the recipe card.
Maria says
This was absolutely out of this world! I’m really glad that I chose to make it with chicken thighs instead of breast meat. It was so tender and juicy. I’m loving your recipes!!
Jen says
I am so happy you are loving my recipes! Thank you so much, Maria, I am thrilled this was a hit!
Melissa D. says
Sooooo good! Definitely recommend grilling, as those charred bits gives it something extra. Thank you for such a great recipe! I will definitely make this again!
Jen says
Thank you so much, Melissa! I am so happy this will be a repeat recipe!
Rachel S says
I made this recipe last night using the baking method. Although it wasn’t nearly as pretty without that good char from the grill, it was cooked to perfection in just 15 minutes. I find it so easy to over bake chicken breast but because it was sliced in strips it cooked quickly and stayed moist without becoming too dry. But best of all, this was kid and husband approved! I will definitely be adding this to our regular rotation!
Jen says
Yay! I’m so glad that it was a winner!