Chicken with Peanut Butter - Easy & Flavor-Packed Recipe

Chicken with peanut butter might sound unusual at first, but it’s an irresistible combination bursting with savory and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you're an adventurous foodie or an everyday home cook looking for a quick yet satisfying dish, this recipe will become your new favorite.

Inspired by classics like African and Southeast Asian peanut sauces, this dish is bold, creamy, and packed with comfort.

This blog will guide you through creating this easy and flavorful recipe right at home, with step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure the best results. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Why Make Chicken with Peanut Butter?

Chicken with peanut butter is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

• Bold Flavors: The creamy richness of peanut butter paired with tender chicken creates a unique depth in every bite. The balance of sweet, salty, and slightly tangy flavors keeps your taste buds wanting more.
• Easy to Prepare: This dish uses pantry staples and takes less than 45 minutes from prep to plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Nutrient-packed: Peanut butter adds a boost of protein and healthy fats, while chicken is a lean protein option. Together, they create a well-rounded meal.
• Pairing Potential: Serve it over rice, noodles, quinoa, or even pair it with vegetables for a wholesome and complete meal.

Ingredients for Chicken with Peanut Butter

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen staples. Many of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry.

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds of chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable, peanut, or coconut oil for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

For the Peanut Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup of peanut butter (creamy or chunky based on preference, natural works best)
• 1 cup of coconut milk (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free alternative)
• 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional, for a nutty aroma)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Crushed peanuts
• Sliced green onions
• Lime wedges

How to Make Chicken with Peanut Butter

This step-by-step guide ensures your dish comes out flavorful every time.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded (this helps achieve a nice sear).
3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Sauce

1. Using the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Over medium heat, sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant (around 1–2 minutes).
2. Stir in the peanut butter until it softens. Next, slowly pour in the coconut milk or chicken broth, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce.
3. Add soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and chili flakes (if using) and simmer for 3–5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding extra coconut milk or broth if it feels too thick. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings to your liking.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy peanut butter sauce.
2. Simmer everything together for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, or green onions.
2. Serve hot over your favorite base like steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Chicken

• Use Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter ensures no extra sugar or artificial ingredients affect the dish's flavor. If using sweetened peanut butter, reduce the honey or sugar in the recipe.
• Swap Protein: Try substituting chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for variety.
• Adjust Spice Levels: For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.
• Peanut Allergy Alternative: Swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture without triggering allergies.

What to Pair it With

The rich and creamy peanut butter chicken pairs beautifully with the following sides:

• Jasmine or Basmati Rice: A fragrant rice option to soak up all that luscious sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice or Quinoa: For a lighter, low-carb alternative.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or bok choy add crunch and color.
• Flatbread: Warm naan or roti makes a great pairing for scooping up the sauce!

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe

This chicken with peanut butter recipe is a culinary trip that brings bold flavors to your kitchen without the need for extensive experience or exotic ingredients. It strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, delivering a crowd-pleasing dish that’ll make its way into your regular meal rotation.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Chicken with peanut butter is one of those recipes that leaves a lasting impression. It’s simple, satisfying, and infinitely customizable to suit your taste. Whether you're crafting this for a quick weekday dinner or looking to impress dinner guests with something unique, this dish delivers every time.

Feel like taking your cooking skills to the next level? Bookmark this recipe now and explore our collection of globally inspired dishes for more culinary adventures. And if you try this recipe, we’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below or see your creations on social media. Happy cooking!