Chef Mitchell preparing Thai Peanut Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during a trip to Thailand where I fell in love with the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. After perfecting the balance of peanut and spices, I knew I had a winner. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen ever since and is always a hit with family and friends. I love serving it on special occasions and weeknights alike."

With over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, I have developed a passion for creating authentic and approachable recipes. My love for dinner recipes has led me to explore various flavorful dishes from across Asia. I aim to make the diverse culinary traditions accessible to home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Thai Peanut Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Thai Peanut Chicken Delight Recipe Works

This recipe works because it balances the creamy richness of peanut butter with the savory notes of soy sauce and honey. The addition of fresh vegetables enhances the flavor and nutrition, making it a wholesome meal. The sauce is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter or spicier.

Using coconut milk adds a luxurious creaminess that pairs beautifully with the chicken. The cooking technique ensures the chicken remains tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors. This recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers impressive results, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken. Additionally, using fresh ingredients will elevate the dish's overall flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and add the sauce for a quick meal.

If you need a substitute for peanut butter, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but these alternatives will still provide a creamy texture.

The dish is done when the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The vegetables should be tender but still vibrant in color. The sauce should be thickened and coating the chicken and vegetables nicely.

Yes, you can freeze Thai Peanut Chicken Delight. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Thai Peanut Chicken Delight is best served over jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch and freshness.

In the refrigerator, Thai Peanut Chicken Delight will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and make the sauce in advance. Just store everything separately and combine them when you're ready to cook. This makes for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights.

The best way to reheat Thai Peanut Chicken Delight is on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken turns out dry and tough.

Solution: To prevent dry chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken lacks a crispy exterior.

Solution: For a crispier finish, try pan-searing the chicken first and then adding the sauce. You can also broil the dish briefly at the end to achieve a golden crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken becomes rubbery and overcooked.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, cook the chicken just until it reaches the right temperature. Remove it from the heat immediately after it’s done to maintain its tenderness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken is undercooked in the middle.

Recovery: If the chicken is undercooked, cover it and cook it for a few more minutes until it reaches the proper temperature. Always check multiple pieces to ensure they are all cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken or sauce burns on the bottom.

Prevention: To prevent burning, ensure your heat is not too high and stir frequently. Adding a little water or broth can help keep the sauce from burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to balance it out.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, add more coconut milk or sugar to mellow the flavor.

Bland: If the dish is bland, increase the soy sauce, add salt, or include more spices to enhance the overall flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Thai Peanut Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Thai Peanut Chicken Delight

Key ingredients for this dish include lean chicken breasts, which provide protein, and a creamy peanut butter that forms the base of the sauce. Fresh vegetables not only add flavor but also nutrients, creating a balanced meal.

Using high-quality peanut butter enhances the dish's flavor significantly. Look for natural options without added sugars or preservatives. Fresh produce will also elevate the overall taste of the meal.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture. Ensure the chicken is fresh and not frozen for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Peanut Butter: Opt for creamy peanut butter for smooth sauce consistency. Natural varieties without added sugar or hydrogenated oils will yield the best results.
  • Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates the creamiest sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk or even unsweetened almond milk as a substitute.
Cooking process for Thai Peanut Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Thai Peanut Chicken Delight is straightforward and requires minimal prep. You will start by preparing all ingredients and then sequentially cooking them to build flavor. This method ensures everything is cooked evenly and thoroughly.

Achieving perfect results comes down to timing and temperature. Keep an eye on the chicken and veggies, allowing them to cook just enough to retain their freshness while still being tender. The sauce should coat everything beautifully without being too thick or too runny.

Key Technique for Perfect Thai Peanut Chicken Delight

The secret to this dish lies in the sauce. By whisking the peanut butter with soy sauce, vinegar, and other ingredients, you create a balanced and flavorful base. Simmering the sauce with the chicken allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a creamy, rich sauce that enhances the entire dish.

Thai Peanut Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
    Smooth and creamy
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    For acidity
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    For flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
    Grated

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper
    Sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
    Fresh
  • 1 cup coconut milk
    For creaminess
  • 1/4 cup green onions
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
    Optional for spice
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
    For garnish
  • Cooked jasmine rice
    For serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

  2. Make the Sauce

    In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

  3. Cook the Chicken

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes.

  4. Add Vegetables

    Once the chicken is nearly cooked, add the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet.

  5. Combine with Sauce

    Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

  6. Simmer

    Reduce the heat to low and add coconut milk. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  7. Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add crushed red pepper flakes for added spice.

  8. Serve

    Serve the Thai Peanut Chicken Delight over cooked jasmine rice, garnished with green onions and cilantro.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Thai Peanut Chicken Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain freshness, reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of jasmine rice and a simple cucumber salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or fresh spring rolls.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as snap peas or carrots. You can also swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.