If you are craving something deliciously creamy, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, nutty sauce that balances salty, sweet, tangy, and just a hint of heat, creating a harmony that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe promises vibrant flavors in every bite, making it an unforgettable comfort meal that feels both special and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building the luscious texture, the depth of flavor, or the bright accents that make the dish pop.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb the sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in chicken juices and adds a subtle richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The foundational seasonings that enhance every flavor.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy): The star ingredient delivering creaminess and that signature nutty taste.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds savory depth and umami brilliance.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness and heat.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a warm, toasty aroma.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): Provides a gentle kick of spice for those who like a bit of heat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds pungent, savory notes to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Adjusts the sauce consistency to silky perfection.
- Chopped green onions: For a crisp, fresh finish on top.
- Crushed peanuts: Adds delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor.
- Fresh cilantro: A bright herbaceous kick that awakens the palate.
- Lime wedges: A zesty squeeze to elevate every forkful.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the chicken and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 7 minutes until every piece is golden brown and cooked through. This step is crucial to build a flavorful foundation—the seared edges add texture and depth to the dish. Once done, set the chicken aside so you can focus on the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Sauce
While the chicken rests, combine your peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, optional sriracha, and minced garlic in a bowl. Use a whisk—it helps blend the sauce into a silky smooth consistency. Slowly add warm water a bit at a time to loosen the sauce to a pourable texture that will evenly coat the chicken later. This sauce is where the magic really happens: creamy, nutty, with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy notes.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the luscious peanut butter sauce on top. Stir gently to ensure every piece is generously covered. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly and allowing the flavors to mingle and develop. The gentle simmer helps the sauce cling to the chicken for unforgettable bites every time.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Your Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it straight from the pan over your choice of rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. For an added burst of freshness and texture, sprinkle chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, and fresh cilantro on top, then finish with a bright squeeze of lime juice. These garnishes will lift the aroma and add delightful contrasts to the rich, creamy sauce.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of fresh garnishes! Chopped green onions give a subtle crunch and mild onion flavor. Crushed peanuts complement the creamy peanut sauce with additional texture and nuttiness. Fresh cilantro adds herbal brightness that cuts through the richness, while lime wedges bring a zesty, citrusy finish that ties all the flavors together. These simple touches make your dish feel polished and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can also serve it alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for a refreshing balance. If you’re in a noodle mood, try it on rice noodles or soba noodles to give it a fun twist with extra bite and chew.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and inviting presentation, try serving this dish in individual bowls layered with rice and a handful of fresh greens like baby spinach or arugula. Drizzle any extra peanut sauce on top and finish with the garnishes we love so much. Alternatively, make lettuce wraps with peanut chicken for a light, hand-held option that’s great for sharing and impressing guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or dinner option later in the week without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is a fantastic way to keep this dish on hand. Just place cooled peanut butter chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat or in the microwave to avoid breaking the sauce’s creamy texture. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick after storage.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter alternatives in this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe?
Yes! If you’re allergic to peanuts, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter as substitutes. They offer a similar creamy, nutty flavor and a delicious twist to the sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes optional sriracha for spice, so you can adjust the heat level to your liking. Leaving it out results in a mild, nutty dish perfect for all palates.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving when cooking, while breasts make a leaner option. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and great sauce absorption.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free without compromising on that savory depth of flavor.
What are the best sides to serve with Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe?
Steamed jasmine rice or noodles are classic sides, but you can also go for stir-fried vegetables or even a crisp cucumber salad to balance the richness of the peanut sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its creamy sauce, perfect balance of flavors, and simplicity make it a standout on any weeknight table. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find yourself reaching for this beloved recipe time and again, sharing it with friends and family who will love it as much as you do.
Print
Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Peanut Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy, savory peanut sauce with a hint of spice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Peanut Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for spice)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup warm water (to adjust sauce consistency)
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Peanut Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and minced garlic. Gradually add warm water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth and creamy but pourable.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet over medium heat. Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken and stir to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the peanut butter chicken over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Adjust the sriracha amount based on your desired spice level or omit for no spice.
- The sauce consistency can be thinned or thickened by adjusting the amount of warm water.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
