Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a beloved Southeast Asian dish that brings together tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a bold, creamy peanut sauce. Bursting with savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, this recipe makes a perfect appetizer, party snack, or main course when paired with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, aromatic flavors
• Grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and full of spice
• The peanut dipping sauce is creamy, spicy, and irresistible
• Great for entertaining or as a weeknight dinner
• Easy to make ahead for parties or meal prep
• Naturally gluten-free (with gluten-free soy sauce)
• Customizable spice level
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• Works well with a variety of sides
• Delicious hot or at room temperature

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Satay:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Lime juice
• Brown sugar or honey
• Ground turmeric
• Ground coriander
• Ground cumin
• Coconut milk
• Skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For the Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce:

• Peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar or lime juice
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
• Honey or brown sugar
• Coconut milk or warm water (to thin)

directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix garlic, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and coconut milk.
2. Marinate the chicken: Slice chicken into thin strips. Add to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
3. Make the peanut sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, vinegar or lime juice, garlic, ginger, sriracha, honey, and coconut milk or water until smooth. Adjust seasoning and spice level to taste.
4. Thread the chicken: Skewer marinated chicken strips onto soaked skewers.
5. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Arrange skewers on a platter with the spicy peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour (or more)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegan version: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and a plant-based milk for the sauce.
• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for the sauce.
• No grill? Cook the skewers in a grill pan or broil them in the oven.
• Extra spicy: Add more chili paste or crushed red pepper to the sauce.
• Herb boost: Add chopped cilantro or Thai basil to the marinade.
• Add veggies: Serve with cucumber salad or grilled peppers for a fresh side.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken satay in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The peanut sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for 4–5 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave. Thin the peanut sauce with a little warm water if it thickens in the fridge.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for satay?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts also work well.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made several days in advance and stored in the fridge.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour, but up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this dish spicy?

The chicken is mildly spiced, and the heat in the sauce can be adjusted to your preference.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, freeze the chicken in the marinade and thaw in the fridge before grilling.

What should I serve with chicken satay?

Steamed jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or rice noodles are great accompaniments.

Is peanut sauce gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, it adds extra texture to the sauce.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is hot and lightly oiled before cooking.

Conclusion

Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that combines tender grilled chicken with an irresistible creamy peanut sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this Southeast Asian favorite is always a hit. With its versatility and bold flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

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