What makes chicken satay skewers different from regular grilled chicken?

Chicken satay skewers are marinated in a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and warm spices like turmeric and coriander that create complex, aromatic flavors throughout the meat. They're served with a rich peanut sauce that adds creamy, nutty depth. Unlike basic grilled chicken with simple seasonings, satay involves a two-part flavor system - the spiced marinade and the complementary peanut sauce, creating a more sophisticated, restaurant-quality taste experience.

Can I make chicken satay skewers without a grill?

Absolutely! Chicken satay skewers work beautifully indoors using a grill pan over medium-high heat, or under the broiler on the top oven rack. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You can also use an air fryer at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through. The key is achieving that golden caramelization from the marinade, which happens with any high-heat cooking method.

How long should I marinate chicken satay skewers?

For best results, marinate chicken satay skewers for at least 2 hours, but overnight (8-12 hours) creates the most tender, flavorful results. The acids and enzymes in the marinade need time to break down the proteins and infuse the chicken with spices. You can marinate up to 24 hours, but beyond that, the chicken may become too soft. If you're short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will add some flavor.

What's the best peanut butter for satay sauce?

Use creamy, natural peanut butter without added sugar for the best satay sauce. Brands like Jif or Skippy work well, but avoid chunky peanut butter unless you want texture in your sauce. Natural peanut butters with just peanuts and salt create the most authentic flavor, while no-stir varieties blend more easily. Avoid low-fat peanut butter as the fat content is essential for the sauce's creamy texture and rich taste.

Perfect Chicken Satay Skewers with Creamy Peanut Sauce (Kid-Approved!)

Name: Chicken Satay Skewers with Creamy Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch strips; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for sauce); 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for sauce); 1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for sauce); 2-3 tablespoons warm water; Wooden skewers, soaked 30 minutes; Cucumber slices, red onion, cilantro, lime wedges for serving; Steamed jasmine rice

Description

These chicken satay skewers feature tender marinated chicken grilled to perfection with a creamy homemade peanut sauce. Kid-friendly spice levels with restaurant-quality flavors that work on any grill or stovetop!

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce (for sauce)
2 tablespoons brown sugar (for sauce)
1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for sauce)
2–3 tablespoons warm water
Wooden skewers, soaked 30 minutes
Cucumber slices, red onion, cilantro, lime wedges for serving
Steamed jasmine rice

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Instructions

1. Make marinade: In large bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, vegetable oil, 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, coriander, turmeric, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
2. Marinate chicken: Add chicken strips to marinade, coat well. Cover and refrigerate 2+ hours or overnight.
3. Make peanut sauce: Whisk peanut butter, coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp lime juice, rice vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add warm water gradually until smooth and pourable.
4. Prepare skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces.
5. Preheat grill: Heat to medium-high (400°F). Clean and oil grates.
6. Grill skewers: Cook 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Rest and serve: Let rest 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with peanut sauce, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, lime wedges, and rice.

Notes

Overnight marinating creates best flavor. Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts. Peanut sauce keeps 5 days refrigerated. Can cook indoors using grill pan, broiler, or air fryer. Start with less red pepper flakes for sensitive palates.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3-4 skewers with sauce and rice
Calories: 445 Calories
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 85mg