Easy Thai Chicken Satay & Peanut Sauce

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Tender, juicy grilled chicken skewers kissed with Thai spices and served alongside a creamy, rich peanut dipping sauce — this Easy Thai Chicken Satay is a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard dinner or cooking indoors on a stovetop grill pan, this dish brings irresistible street food flavors straight to your kitchen.

With a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and nutty notes, these satay skewers are deeply marinated for flavor in every bite. Pair them with a crunchy cucumber salad and some jasmine rice for a full meal, or serve them up as an appetizer that’ll steal the show at your next gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Thai Chicken Satay

• The marinade is packed with flavor thanks to Thai curry paste, coconut milk, and spices.
• It grills up quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers.
• The creamy peanut sauce is a game-changer. You’ll want to dip everything in it.
• It’s versatile: serve as a starter, main dish, or party snack.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Satay?

For the juiciest result, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are your best bet. They stay tender and flavorful even with high-heat grilling. However, if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast can be used — just be careful not to overcook it.

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Ingredients for the Easy Thai Chicken Satay & Peanut Sauce

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the bold, rich flavors of this Thai classic. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.

• Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for skewering and grilling.
• Coconut milk – Adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with mild sweetness.
• Thai red curry paste – Packs a punch of authentic Thai flavor and spice.
• Soy sauce – Brings in a salty umami element that balances the sweetness.
• Brown sugar – Just a touch for a caramelized finish and balance of flavors.
• Garlic & ginger – Essential aromatics that create a savory foundation.
• Turmeric & coriander – For that signature golden hue and earthy depth.
• Peanut butter – The base of the satay sauce, rich and nutty.
• Lime juice – Cuts through the richness and adds brightness.
• Fish sauce – A little goes a long way to deliver deep umami.
• Chili flakes (optional) – Add heat if you like it spicy.

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How To Make the Easy Thai Chicken Satay & Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and coriander. Mix well. Add sliced chicken thighs, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Step 2: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, fish sauce, and a pinch of chili flakes. Stir until smooth and warmed through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Skewer and Grill

Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill skewers 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with nice char marks.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with peanut sauce on the side and fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.

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Serving and Storing Thai Chicken Satay

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it ideal for a small family dinner or a party appetizer spread. Each skewer is packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a fresh veggie side.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers. The chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best texture. The peanut sauce can be refrigerated for 4-5 days and even frozen if needed.

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What to Serve With Thai Chicken Satay?

Jasmine Rice

A light and fluffy base to soak up all the flavorful peanut sauce.

Cucumber Salad

Fresh, crisp, and slightly tangy, it offers a cooling contrast to the savory skewers.

Thai Sticky Rice

For something more traditional, this glutinous rice makes a satisfying partner.

Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add smoky depth and variety.

Thai Iced Tea

Cool down the spice and complete the experience with this sweet, creamy drink.

Spring Rolls

Light and crunchy, they make a nice appetizer before diving into the satay.

Lettuce Wraps

Use the grilled chicken in crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, low-carb twist.

Pickled Veggies

Add a bit of tang and crunch to balance the richness of the peanut sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes! You can bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway. Finish under the broiler for a slight char if desired.

Is there a substitute for peanut butter?
If you’re allergic or just not a fan, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter. The flavor will vary slightly but still be delicious.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken and make the peanut sauce a day in advance. Skewer and grill when ready to serve.

How spicy is this recipe?
The base recipe is mild, but you can easily turn up the heat with extra chili flakes or a spicier curry paste.

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Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you grill it or bake it? Did you add extra spice or keep it mild?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more delicious and approachable food ideas, check out my daily recipes on Meals We Share By Sally Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Easy Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is surprisingly simple to pull off. With a flavorful marinade, tender grilled meat, and an irresistible dipping sauce, it checks all the boxes for a go-to meal.

Whether you’re hosting, meal-prepping, or just craving bold flavor, this recipe delivers on every level.

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