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Delicious Balinese chicken satay skewers with rich peanut sauce

Satay Chicken with Restaurant Style Peanut Sauce

A delightful Indonesian dish featuring grilled marinated chicken skewers served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Balinese, Indonesian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Skewers
  • 1 lb chicken thigh fillets Tender and juicy, skinless and boneless.
  • 2.5 tbsp kecap manis Thick sweet soy sauce for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter Melted for brush-on flavor.
  • 12-14 pieces small bamboo skewers Soaked in water for 30 minutes.
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil Peanut, canola, or vegetable oil for grilling.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic depth.
  • 1 small or 1/2 large onion Diced, adding sweetness and texture.
  • 3 pieces birds eye chillis Sliced, or substitute with hot sauce.
For the Peanut Sauce
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter Smooth or crunchy for the creamy base.
  • 1 cup coconut milk Full fat preferred for creaminess.
  • 2.5 tbsp kecap manis For extra flavor in 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 added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice Brightens the dish with acidity.
For Serving
  • Crushed peanuts For garnish.
  • Lime wedges To serve alongside.
  • Sliced shallots/scallions For an oniony crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken thigh fillets into 1.5cm (0.5") cubes and thread approximately 4 to 5 pieces onto each soaked bamboo skewer.
Marination
  1. In a small bowl, mix together the kecap manis and melted butter. Brush this mixture generously onto the skewered chicken.
Cooking
  1. 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.
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
  1. 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.
  2. Reduce heat to medium, add peanut butter, coconut milk, kecap manis, soy sauce, and salt. Let simmer for about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally.
  3. 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.
Serving
  1. Serve the grilled skewers garnished with crushed peanuts and sliced shallots, accompanied by lime wedges and a bowl of peanut sauce.

Notes

Soak bamboo skewers to prevent burning and make handling easier. Feel free to add spices like coriander or cumin for added complexity.