Name: Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut milk; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/4 cup warm water

Facebook

Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun weeknight meal, Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce is the answer. The tender, juicy chicken skewers paired with a creamy, savory-sweet peanut dipping sauce are always a hit—whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or just craving bold flavors. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to put it on repeat. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

Quick & simple prep—ready in just 30 minutes start to finish.

Packed with bold, aromatic flavors that delight your taste buds.
Perfect for grilling or using an indoor grill pan year-round.
The creamy peanut sauce is so good you’ll want to dip everything in it.

Great for meal prep, parties, or family dinners alike.

Ingredients for Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

For the Chicken Satay:

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon curry powder

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water 30 minutes beforehand)

For the Easy Peanut Sauce:

½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ cup warm water (plus more as needed for thinning)

Directions: How to Make Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, curry powder, garlic, coriander, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken strips, toss well to coat, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Easy Peanut Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sriracha, ginger, garlic, and warm water in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy, adding more water as needed to reach your desired dipping consistency. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken strips onto the soaked skewers, weaving them so they’re secure but not too tight (this helps with even cooking).

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Satay

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grates. Grill the skewers for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown with charred edges and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C). Total cook time: 6–8 minutes.

Step 5: Serve with Peanut Sauce

Transfer hot chicken satay skewers to a platter, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and chopped peanuts if desired, and serve immediately with generous bowls of your easy peanut sauce.

Notes: Tips for the Best Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

For the juiciest skewers, use chicken thighs, but breasts work well too.

Don’t skip soaking wooden skewers—this prevents burning on the grill. Learn more about safe grilling techniques from Serious Eats.
You can prep the peanut sauce up to 4 days in advance and refrigerate—it actually gets even more flavorful!

Variations: Tasty Twists on Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

Spicy Satay: Amp up the heat with extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes in both the marinade and the sauce.

Vegetarian Satay: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh cubes, marinate, and grill just as you would the chicken.
Coconut Satay: Add 1/4 cup coconut milk to the marinade for a creamy, tropical flavor boost.

Required Equipment for Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

Mixing bowls

Whisk
Grill or grill pan
Tongs

Skewers (wooden or metal)
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions for Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

Store leftover chicken satay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Peanut sauce can be refrigerated separately for up to 4 days; just stir before serving. To reheat, microwave chicken gently or warm in a low oven (300°F/150°C) until heated through. See more about safe storage.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve chicken satay skewers with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or fresh vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.
Pair with a crisp lager, iced tea, or a refreshing lime soda for a cooling sip.
For a party platter, add shrimp chips, spring rolls, or a simple green salad on the side.

Pro Tips for Chicken Satay with an Easy Peanut Sauce

For extra tender chicken, marinate overnight (just cover tightly in the fridge).
Let the chicken come to room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling—this ensures juicy, even cooking.
If the peanut sauce thickens in the fridge, add a splash of warm water and whisk until smooth again. For more peanut sauce inspiration, check out this guide from Bon Appétit.