As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow in my kitchen, I found myself yearning for a splash of excitement in my dinner routine. That’s when the vibrant ingredients for my Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken caught my eye. A simple glance at the creamy peanut butter and fragrant lemongrass ignited a mixture of nostalgia and curiosity, reminding me of a street food vendor I stumbled upon during my travels.
This dish not only brings the warmth of Asia into your home but also offers an effortless escape from the same old weeknight meals. With just a handful of spices and fresh vegetables dancing in harmony, it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day yet impressive enough to share with friends.
Join me as we transform everyday chicken into a flavor-packed feast that celebrates the balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch. Trust me—this Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken is destined to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire!
Why is Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish on the table in 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy peanut butter, tangy lime, and spicy chilies creates a taste that’s utterly unforgettable.
Colorful Dish: Fresh bell peppers and herbs not only add vibrant colors but also a multitude of textures.
Comforting and Nourishing: Serve it over rice for a filling meal that’ll warm your soul and impress your loved ones.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this recipe for a delightful escape from fast food!
Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast – This tender protein absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch – Helps create a crisp exterior for the chicken when cooked.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
For the Vegetables
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor to the dish.
• 2 red bell peppers, cored + thinly sliced – Their sweetness and crunch brighten the meal visually and flavor-wise.
• 2-inch piece lemongrass – Gives an aromatic citrus note that’s essential for a Thai flavor profile.
• 1 red fresno chile pepper, thinly sliced – Offers just the right amount of heat for this Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the dish with a robust savory flavor.
• 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger – Adds a warm, zesty kick that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes – Provides additional heat, adjust to taste for a spicy finish.
For the Sauce
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter – The star of the dish, delivering rich creaminess and depth.
• 1 (13.5 fl oz) can coconut milk – Makes the sauce luscious and adds a hint of sweetness.
• ¾ cup chicken stock – Adds flavor and helps balance the creaminess of the peanut butter.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – Provides umami and saltiness to enhance overall flavor.
• 1 tbsp fish sauce – A key element in Thai cooking that adds depth; use sparingly for an extra punch.
• 1 tbsp honey – Balances the savory and spicy elements with a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 lime, juiced – Brightens up the dish with its fresh acidity, perfect for balancing the richness.
For Serving
• Rice – Serves as the perfect base to absorb the flavors of the peanut chicken.
• ½ cup toasted peanuts, chopped – Adds a delightful crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced – Provides a fresh, crisp bite to contrast the warm flavors.
• 1 small handful cilantro leaves – Offers a fresh garnish that enhances the aromatic experience.
• Extra red pepper flakes – For those who like it hot—add more on top before serving.
Now you have everything you need to create this delightful dish of Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken! Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and bring a burst of flavor into your kitchen!
How to Make Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into approximately 1” pieces. In a bowl, toss well with the cornstarch and a generous pinch of kosher salt for maximum flavor.
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Heat the Skillet: Heat a 12” cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to just coat the bottom of the skillet. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear each piece for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced shallots and red peppers, along with a little more oil. Season with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the veggies are browned and tender, stirring occasionally.
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Add Aromatics: Bruise the lemongrass with the back of your knife and add it to the skillet. Toss in the fresno chile, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Create the Sauce: Stir in the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, and chicken stock. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the browned chicken back to the skillet. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
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Finish the Dish: Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, and lime juice. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary for a perfect balance of flavors.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve the Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken over fluffy rice. Top with the chopped peanuts, sliced scallions, and cilantro leaves. Feel free to sprinkle with extra red pepper flakes for added spiciness. Serve with lime wedges for that extra zing!
Optional: Drizzle with extra honey for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the chicken into pieces and toss it with cornstarch and salt up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to lock in freshness. Additionally, the sliced shallots and red bell peppers can be prepped and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure all ingredients are kept in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply sauté the vegetables with your prepped chicken, complete the sauce as directed, and simmer until heated through. You’ll have a comforting meal ready to impress with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken
Perfect Chicken Texture: Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.
Balanced Flavors: Taste and adjust the sauce as you go, adding more lime juice or honey according to your preference, ensuring a delightful layer of flavors in your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken.
Chop Wisely: When prepping vegetables, aim for similar thickness for even sautéing. This prevents any pieces from becoming overcooked while others remain crunchy.
Avoid Burning Garlic: Add minced garlic just a minute before you finish cooking the aromatics; this helps prevent the garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
Simmering Secrets: After adding the chicken back to the sauce, simmer at low heat gently. This keeps the chicken moist while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
What to Serve with Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken?
Transform your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken into a complete meal with these delicious pairings that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that absorbs the rich peanut sauce, elevating each bite.
- Crisp Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, it balances the spicy flavors with a tangy dressing for a delightful contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant green pop and complements the dish with its subtle earthiness and texture.
- Thai Spring Rolls: These light and crispy appetizers are perfect for dipping and provide a fun interactive element to your meal.
- Coconut Sticky Rice: A perfect sweet counterpart that echoes the creamy coconut in the dish, offering a lovely blend of flavors.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet, zesty, and colorful—this fruity topping adds brightness while harmonizing with the spicy elements.
- Sweet Red Pepper Chutney: A sweet addition that perfectly complements the dish with a burst of flavor and a hint of heat.
- Iced Green Tea: This refreshing drink will cleanse the palate and enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.
- Coconut Cream Dessert: A luscious way to round off your meal, it echoes the dish’s creamy notes while satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Lychee Martini: For a fun and fruity cocktail that perfectly aligns with the flavors of Thailand, this drink is a perfect match for the occasion.
Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these creative twists that elevate your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken to new heights of deliciousness!
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Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, pressed and cubed. This plant-based protein absorbs the sauce beautifully, giving you that luscious texture.
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Noodle Bowl: Instead of rice, serve the peanut chicken over cooked rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter, fresh twist.
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Extra Crunch: Add a variety of vegetables such as snap peas or water chestnuts during the sautéing step for a delightful crunch and more color.
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Herb Variations: Substitute cilantro with Thai basil for an aromatic touch that’s more traditional in Thai cuisine, enhancing the dish’s authenticity.
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Peanut Butter Alternatives: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative for a different nutty flavor, perfect for nut allergies.
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Sweet Heat: Incorporate sriracha or a diced chili pepper into the sauce for an extra kick, bringing a bold warmth that spice lovers will appreciate.
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Coconut Milk Substitute: For a lighter option, use low-fat coconut milk or swap with unsweetened almond milk for a different taste without losing creaminess.
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Advanced Seasoning: Add a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts as a final garnish to amp up that nutty profile and deepen the overall flavor experience.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken
Fridge: Store your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the chicken into airtight freezer bags or containers. It can last for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or chicken stock to keep it creamy.
Serving: Once reheated, serve it over fresh rice and garnish as desired to revitalize the dish!
Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select bell peppers that are firm and brightly colored. They should have smooth skin without dark spots or wrinkles. When picking lemongrass, look for stalks that are pale green and fragrant at the base—this indicates freshness!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure it cools completely before sealing. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again to revive all those delightful flavors!
Can I freeze Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the chicken into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
Why is my chicken tough?
If your chicken is tough, it might have been cooked at too high a temperature or for too long. To ensure tender pieces, cook the chicken at medium-high heat just until browned and cooked through (about 6 minutes total), then reduce the heat for the simmering phase. Keeping an eye on your cooking times is key here!
Is this recipe suitable for people with specific dietary needs?
Yes, this Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken can be adjusted for dietary restrictions! For instance, if you have nut allergies, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for similar creaminess. Also, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and fish sauce if gluten is a concern. Always read ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs!
What is the best way to reheat the chicken?
To reheat your Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of coconut milk or chicken stock to maintain its creamy texture while preventing it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through for the best results!
Irresistible Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into approximately 1” pieces. In a bowl, toss well with the cornstarch and a generous pinch of kosher salt for maximum flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a 12” cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to just coat the bottom of the skillet. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear each piece for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced shallots and red peppers, along with a little more oil. Season with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the veggies are browned and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add Aromatics: Bruise the lemongrass with the back of your knife and add it to the skillet. Toss in the fresno chile, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, and chicken stock. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the browned chicken back to the skillet. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, and lime juice. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken over fluffy rice. Top with the chopped peanuts, sliced scallions, and cilantro leaves. Feel free to sprinkle with extra red pepper flakes for added spiciness.