When life gets hectic and dinner time sneaks up on you, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of tender chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy sauce. This easy Peanut Butter Chicken delivers just that: a melding of rich, nutty flavors with a zingy touch of lime and warmth from chili powder and cumin. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner to cozy up with after a long day, and it doubles beautifully as a satisfying lunch the next day. With succulent chicken pieces soaking up every drop of that velvety sauce, each bite invites you into a world of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy goodness—all in one skillet.
As a busy home cook, I love how this dish comes together in just under an hour. Preparation Time: 15 minutes, Cooking Time: 30 minutes, Rest Time: 5 minutes. With only beginner-level techniques required, you’ll be dishing out restaurant-worthy flavors without the fuss. At around 450 calories per serving, it’s hearty enough to fill you up and light enough to leave room for dessert. Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired comfort or looking to impress friends at a casual dinner, this Peanut Butter Chicken delivers soul-warming satisfaction. Pull out your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into a meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PEANUT BUTTER CHICKEN
Before you start cooking, let’s get acquainted with the soul of this dish: the ingredients that make it sing. Each element plays its part, from the hearty protein to the lively spices that wake up your taste buds. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need and how each item contributes to the final masterpiece.
- Chicken thighs or breasts
This is the heart of the dish—bite-sized pieces of tender, juicy chicken that absorb the rich peanut sauce beautifully. Thighs offer extra juiciness, while breasts keep it lean.
- Vegetable oil
A neutral oil for browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics without overpowering the delicate peanut flavors.
- Onion
When finely chopped and sautéed until translucent, onions add natural sweetness and a soft texture that becomes the flavor base.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the sauce with pungent depth; a staple in savory cooking that brings that familiar, comforting aroma.
- Fresh ginger
Grated ginger gives a bright, peppery lift that cuts through the richness of peanut butter and coconut milk.
- Creamy peanut butter
The star ingredient—smooth, nutty, and luscious, it thickens the sauce and delivers that signature flavor in every spoonful.
- Coconut milk
Blended in for creaminess, it balances the peanut butter and creates a silky, velvety texture perfect for coating each piece of chicken.
- Soy sauce
Adds umami depth and a hint of saltiness that ties all the flavors together.
- Brown sugar
A touch of sweetness that rounds out the savory and tangy notes in the sauce.
- Lime juice
Fresh acidity that brightens the sauce, preventing it from feeling too heavy and adding a citrusy zing.
- Chili powder
Brings gentle heat and a smoky dimension to complement the nutty and sweet elements.
- Ground cumin
Earthy and warm, cumin layers in a subtle spice that marries beautifully with chili powder.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings to taste—highlighting and balancing all the flavors in the sauce.
- Fresh cilantro
Chopped at the end for a burst of herbal freshness and color contrast.
- Roasted peanuts
A crunchy garnish that echoes the peanut butter foundation and adds texture.
HOW TO MAKE PEANUT BUTTER CHICKEN
Let’s dive right into the cooking process. This recipe moves from searing to saucing, allowing you to build layers of flavor in a single skillet. Follow these steps to achieve tender chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy, aromatic peanut sauce.
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they develop a golden-brown crust on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about one more minute until the mixture releases its fragrant aroma.
3. Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the creamy peanut butter, using a spoon or spatula to melt it gently into the onions, garlic, and ginger. Keep stirring until it forms a smooth, cohesive paste.
4. Pour in the coconut milk slowly, stirring continuously so the peanut butter fully incorporates without clumping. You should end up with a glossy, creamy sauce that coats the back of your spoon.
5. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir well, ensuring all the spices meld together to create a rich, balanced sauce.
6. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each piece in the peanut sauce. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
7. Serve the Peanut Butter Chicken straight from the skillet, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts for that final crunch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PEANUT BUTTER CHICKEN
A dish this vibrant deserves equally thoughtful pairings and presentation. Whether you’re serving a cozy family meal or entertaining guests, these ideas will help you showcase your Peanut Butter Chicken in style. With complementary textures, colors, and contrasting flavors, you’ll elevate every spoonful into a memorable dining experience.
- Steamed jasmine rice
Fluffy and aromatic, jasmine rice is the classic companion for soaking up every drop of the creamy peanut sauce. Spoon the chicken and sauce over a mound of rice for a picture-perfect plate.
- Fresh vegetable medley
Brighten your meal with steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. These crisp veggies add color, nutrition, and crunch—plus they balance out the richness.
- Warm flatbreads or naan
Tearable breads make for fun, interactive dining. Use them to scoop up the sauce and chicken, giving a delightful hand-held element to the meal.
- Crisp side salad
A simple green salad dressed with lime juice, a hint of oil, and a pinch of salt offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, nutty sauce, keeping the meal light and balanced.
HOW TO STORE PEANUT BUTTER CHICKEN
After enjoying your first serving, you’ll be happy to know this dish stores beautifully. Proper storage methods help preserve the creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and tender chicken for future meals. Whether you plan to enjoy leftovers for lunch or freeze portions for busy nights ahead, follow these tips to maintain peak freshness.
- Refrigeration
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing
For longer-term storage, portion the cooled Peanut Butter Chicken into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve the texture.
- Separate garnishes
To keep the chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts fresh and crispy, store them in a small, separate sealed container. Add these toppings just before serving to maintain their bright color and crunch.
- Label and date
Whether you refrigerate or freeze, always label your containers with the date you cooked the dish. This simple step ensures you enjoy your leftovers at their best quality and don’t lose track of storage time.
CONCLUSION
From its first flavorful sizzle in the skillet to the last delightful spoonful of creamy sauce, this Peanut Butter Chicken recipe brings warmth and excitement to any meal. We’ve walked through the key ingredients, from creamy peanut butter and coconut milk to fragrant ginger, garlic, and spices. You’ve seen how easy it is to transform simple pantry staples and bite-sized chicken into a soul-satisfying dinner that’s as quick for weeknight cooking as it is impressive for weekend gatherings. With just one pan, you get layers of texture and flavor, plus the freedom to customize heat levels or swap in colorful veggies for extra nutrition.
Once you’ve mastered this dish, don’t forget to print out the instructions and save them in your recipe binder or digital folder for future reference. You can also find a FAQ below to help troubleshoot any questions as you cook. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner exploring new flavors, this Peanut Butter Chicken has everything you need to make a memorable meal. If you try this recipe or have any questions about technique, timing, or ingredient swaps, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment, share your experience, or let me know how you personalized the dish—your feedback and stories make this cooking journey even more delicious. Happy cooking!
Peanut Butter Chicken
Description
This Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful blend of succulent chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and spices, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s full of flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Lower the heat to medium and stir in the peanut butter, ensuring it melts and combines smoothly with the onions, garlic, and ginger.
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Pour in the coconut milk, stirring continuously until the peanut butter is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors, creating a rich sauce.
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Return the browned chicken back into the skillet, making sure each piece is coated with the peanut butter sauce. Simmer the chicken in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
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Serve the peanut butter chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and roasted peanuts.
Note
- Peanut Butter Chicken pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice or a bed of quinoa.
- For an extra touch of heat, you can add a chopped chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking.
- This dish can be made a day ahead as the flavors deepen further overnight.
- Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty flavor if preferred.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
