Satay Chicken with Restaurant Style Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Indonesian and Balinese cuisine. The aroma of grilled marinated chicken skewers paired with a rich and creamy peanut sauce is simply irresistible. This dish not only evokes culinary nostalgia but also creates a comforting experience for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It’s easy to prepare and provides a unique, flavor-packed meal that everyone will enjoy. In this step-by-step recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of crafting these delicious skewers and their accompanying peanut sauce.
Ingredients
To make Satay Chicken with Restaurant Style Peanut Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb / 500g chicken thigh fillets: Tender and juicy, skinless and boneless for ease of cooking.
- 2 1/2 tbsp kecap manis: This thick sweet soy sauce adds depth and sweetness, essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Melted for brush-on flavor, enhancing the chicken’s richness.
- 12 – 14 small bamboo skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- 1 tbsp cooking oil: Choose peanut, canola, or vegetable oil for grilling.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced to provide aromatic depth.
- 1 small or 1/2 large onion: Diced, adding sweetness and texture.
- 3 birds eye chillis: Sliced, or substitute with hot sauce for heat.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Smooth or crunchy, for that creamy base in the sauce.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Full fat preferred for creaminess, though light works.
- 2 1/2 tbsp kecap manis: Adds an additional layer of flavor to the sauce.
- 1/2 tbsp soy sauce: A touch for umami flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: To balance flavors.
- 1/4 cup crushed unsalted roasted peanuts: For an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 – 2 tbsp fresh lime juice: Brightens the dish with acidity.
- Crushed peanuts: For garnish.
- Lime wedges: To serve alongside.
- Sliced shallots/scallions: For an oniony crunch.
This combination of ingredients guarantees a mouth-watering experience with every bite: aromatic chicken skewers dipped in creamy, rich peanut sauce.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken thigh fillets into 1.5cm (0.5") cubes. Thread approximately 4 to 5 pieces onto each soaked bamboo skewer, making sure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the kecap manis and melted butter. Brush this mixture generously onto the skewered chicken to ensure every piece is coated and absorbing the flavors.
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Cook the Skewers: You can grill the skewers on a hot BBQ or an outdoor grill. Alternatively, use a large non-stick frying pan on the stove with a splash of cooking oil. Ensure that the skewers fit comfortably in the pan. Cook the skewers, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through—this should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced chillis, cooking for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
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Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium, then add the peanut butter, coconut milk, 2 1/2 tbsp kecap manis, soy sauce, and salt to the saucepan. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally to combine well.
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Blend the Sauce: Using a handheld stick blender, carefully puree the sauce to ensure the onion and chiles blend thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth consistency. Stir in crushed peanuts and lime juice, and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
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Serve: Allow the sauce to cool slight before serving; it will thicken as it cools. Present the grilled skewers garnished with crushed peanuts and sliced shallots or scallions, accompanied by lime wedges and a bowl of peanut sauce for dipping.
Tips & Tricks
- Soaking the bamboo skewers not only prevents burning but also ensures they become pliant, making handling easier.
- To add more complexity to your sauce, consider tossing in additional spices like coriander or cumin for aromatic depth.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, adjust the number of chillis or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken marinade.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Satay Chicken makes a versatile dish perfect for various occasions. Serve it at a summer BBQ, family dinner, or even a cozy night in. Pair it with fragrant coconut rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Additionally, it works wonderfully as an appetizer at gatherings, served with extra peanut sauce and lime wedges.
Nutritional Information
This dish offers a generous serving of protein packed into tender chicken, enriched with healthy fats from peanut butter and peanuts. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 400-500 (varies with portion sizes)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fats: 30-35g
Incorporate this dish into a balanced diet while enjoying the richness of flavors without compromising health.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store leftovers, allow cooked skewers and peanut sauce to cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers. They can be refrigerated up to 3 days. For longer preservation, freeze the skewers and sauce for up to 3 months. When reheating, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently in a microwave or stovetop.
Variations of this recipe could include substituting chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist or adding different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
I highly encourage you to try making Satay Chicken with Restaurant Style Peanut Sauce at home. This recipe is not only simple but also rewarding, allowing you to create an exotic dish that transports your taste buds to the streets of Bali. Don’t forget to share your experiences and adaptations; it’s always wonderful to see how everyone adds their unique flair to this beloved dish!
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, they might be less juicy. Be cautious not to overcook them. -
Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Marinate them similarly and grill for a delicious vegetarian alternative. -
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. Use fewer chillis or remove the seeds for milder flavors. -
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken skewers in advance and store them in the fridge. However, cook them right before serving for the best flavor and texture. -
What can I serve with satay chicken?
Coconut rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad work wonderfully as sides. Enjoy them alongside cold beverages for a refreshing meal.
Satay Chicken with Restaurant Style Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the chicken thigh fillets into 1.5cm (0.5″) cubes and thread approximately 4 to 5 pieces onto each soaked bamboo skewer.
- In a small bowl, mix together the kecap manis and melted butter. Brush this mixture generously onto the skewered chicken.
- Grill the skewers on a hot BBQ or outdoor grill, or use a large non-stick frying pan with cooking oil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced chillis, cooking for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Reduce heat to medium, add peanut butter, coconut milk, kecap manis, soy sauce, and salt. Let simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally.
- Using a handheld stick blender, carefully puree the sauce until smooth. Stir in crushed peanuts and lime juice, and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve the grilled skewers garnished with crushed peanuts and sliced shallots, accompanied by lime wedges and a bowl of peanut sauce.
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