If you’re craving a dish that melds creamy, nutty richness with tender, juicy chicken, you’re in for a treat with this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe. This comforting meal is perfect for busy days when you want something effortless yet indulgent. The slow cooker works its magic, infusing the chicken with the bold flavors of peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and a touch of spice, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and delightfully vibrant. Whether you’re making dinner after a hectic day or prepping for a cozy weekend meal, this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your trusted favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that are pantry-friendly and pack a punch in the flavor department. Each element plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and a little bit of heat that makes the dish irresistible.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Chicken thighs add extra juiciness, but breasts are lean and cook beautifully in the slow cooker.
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy): The soul of the dish, peanut butter brings creamy texture and nutty depth.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami richness essential for that authentic flavor.
- 1/4 cup honey: Sweetness that balances the salty soy and spicy notes perfectly.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar: Infuses a gentle tang that brightens the overall taste.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic gives a fragrant backbone that complements the peanut sauce wonderfully.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Warmth and spice elevate the complexity of the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who like it spicy, though you can adjust or skip as you prefer.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water: Helps to loosen the sauce just enough for saucy goodness.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a toasty aroma that enriches the finished dish.
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional): Brightens the flavors by adding a fresh citrus note.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season and round out all the flavors.
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional): Provides crunch and a burst of color to elevate the presentation.
How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
Start by mixing together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, sesame oil, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth. This rich peanut sauce will be the heart of the dish, coating the chicken with layers of flavor as it cooks slowly.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or thighs neatly at the bottom of your slow cooker. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. This lets the chicken absorb all the delicious sauce without being overwhelmed by saltiness.
Step 3: Pour Sauce and Cook
Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the chicken. Cover with the slow cooker lid and set it on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The slow cooker will tenderize the chicken while the sauce thickens and infuses into every bite.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, give the sauce a gentle stir to blend everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe that final flourish, sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro over the top. The peanuts add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, while the cilantro lends a pop of fresh herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or steamed brown rice to soak up every bit of that luscious peanut sauce. For a lighter option, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots provide both color and a fresh crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
To mix things up, try serving the peanut chicken as a flavorful filling for lettuce wraps or tacos, offering a playful and fresh dining experience. You can also toss the shredded chicken with cooked noodles or in a grain bowl to transform leftovers into an exciting new meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too, just cover and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice because they stay extra juicy and tender during slow cooking, adding richness to the dish. Breasts work great too but can dry out if overcooked, so keep an eye on timing.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since these proteins don’t require as long as chicken to soak up the flavors in the slow cooker.
How spicy is this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. This recipe calls for half a teaspoon, which provides a gentle background heat. Feel free to reduce or omit if you prefer a milder taste, or add more for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! One of the best things about slow cooker meals is their convenience. You can mix the sauce and cut the chicken the day before, then just assemble everything in the slow cooker and start cooking when you’re ready.
What are the best sides to serve with this meal?
Jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or even a crisp green salad all complement the rich peanut flavors perfectly. The rice soaks up the sauce, while vegetables bring freshness and balance.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe enough for anyone looking to combine ease and incredible flavor in one dish. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Give it a try—you just might find your new go-to slow cooker favorite.
Print
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy peanut sauce with savory soy, sweet honey, and zesty lime. This comforting recipe combines bold, nutty flavors with a hint of spice and brightness, making it perfect for a hands-off weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Peanut Sauce
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, chicken broth or water, sesame oil, and lime juice if using. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add to slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or slice as desired. Spoon the peanut sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro over the top if desired. Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier result.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on desired spice level.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Leftover peanut chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If the sauce is too thick at the end, thin it with a little water or chicken broth before serving.
