Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce

If you’re craving something that bursts with bold flavors and juicy tenderness, these Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce will absolutely steal your heart. Perfectly charred, with a marinade that packs a punch of aromatic spices and creamy coconut, this dish delivers a mouthwatering balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re grilling indoors or hosting an outdoor gathering, these skewers bring vibrant Thai flair to your table in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce lies in their simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a vital role. From the fragrant spices that infuse the chicken with classic Thai flair to the luscious peanut sauce that ties the whole dish together, getting these basics right ensures you’re set for an unforgettable meal.

• Chicken breast or thigh (1.2 lbs / 1 kg): Thigh adds juiciness, breast is leaner – both work great sliced into strips.
• Coconut milk (¼ cup for marinade, ½ cup for sauce): Creamy and subtly sweet, it creates a silky texture and tenderizes the chicken.
• Light soy sauce (2 tbsp for marinade, 2 tbsp for sauce): Adds salty umami without overpowering the flavors.
• Brown sugar (or white sugar): Balances savory notes with a hint of caramel sweetness.
• Lime juice (from 1 lime): Brings a fresh, zesty punch that brightens the dish beautifully.
• Fish sauce (1 tbsp for marinade, 1 tbsp for sauce): Essential for authentic Thai depth and savory complexity.
• Coriander, garlic, ginger, turmeric powders: These spices layer the marinade with warmth, earthiness, and subtle heat.
• Chili paste (optional): For those who love a little bit of kick!
• Natural peanut butter (1 cup): The star of the sauce, delivering rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency.
• Water (1 cup): Helps achieve the perfect pourable peanut sauce texture.
• Extras like crushed peanuts, fresh coriander, lime wedges, steamed rice, sliced cucumber: Perfect for garnishing and serving.

How to Make Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken into neat strips – this helps them cook quickly and soak up the marinade fully. Mix all the marinade ingredients: coconut milk, light soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, and the aromatic spices together in a bowl. Toss the chicken strips in this luscious mixture, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. Marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can let it sit overnight, the chicken will turn irresistibly tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once your chicken has absorbed all those bold flavors, thread about 4 to 5 pieces onto each skewer. Be mindful not to overcrowd them so the heat can evenly cook each strip. The size of your skewer and chicken pieces will affect cooking time, with thicker chunks needing a little extra patience.

Step 3: Cook the Skewers

Heat a tablespoon of peanut or vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers in batches, turning every 3 to 4 minutes to get that gorgeous golden char while ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic!

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

While the chicken cooks, combine coconut milk, water, natural peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and optional curry powder in a saucepan. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring until it simmers and thickens into a silky, creamy sauce. If it gets too thick, simply add a splash of water until it reaches your ideal consistency—perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce are ready to impress! Plate them up with a generous drizzle of that luscious peanut sauce, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, and a handful of fresh coriander. Add lime wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating—that burst of tang is heavenly.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

Crushed roasted peanuts bring an irresistible crunch and extra nutty goodness that complements the sauce perfectly. Fresh coriander adds a vibrant herbal lift, while lime wedges provide the zesty acidity that balances the richness of the peanut butter. These simple touches elevate your presentation and flavor tremendously.

Side Dishes

Fluffy steamed jasmine rice is a classic companion, soaking up any extra peanut sauce with ease. For a lighter option, try a crisp cucumber salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to refresh your palate. The contrast between warm skewers and cool salad is a delight on warmer days.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party vibe, serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of peanut sauce and garnishes nearby for guests to customize their bites. Alternatively, layer skewers over a bed of greens or rice bowls topped with sliced cucumbers and chili flakes. The visual pop of colors and textures makes this dish as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, these chicken satay skewers stay juicy and flavorful stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep the peanut sauce separate to maintain its perfect texture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked skewers arranged in a single layer on a tray until firm, then wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn—for up to two months. This makes for a quick meal anytime! Thaw thoroughly in the fridge overnight before cooking. Cooked skewers also freeze well but may lose some of their fresh texture.

Reheating

Reheat cooked Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce gently in a skillet or oven to maintain their juiciness and the vibrant char. Microwave reheating is possible but can dry the chicken out; cover loosely with a damp paper towel for best results. Warm the peanut sauce separately to drizzle over after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually preferred because they stay juicy and tender even when cooked over high heat, but chicken breasts work just fine if you prefer leaner meat.

Is it necessary to use natural peanut butter for the sauce?

Yes, natural peanut butter without added salt or sugar gives the most authentic taste and creamy texture. Regular peanut butter often contains additives that can affect both flavor and consistency.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

While 2 hours is sufficient to infuse flavor, marinating overnight is ideal. This extra time allows the spices and coconut milk to deeply tenderize the chicken, making every bite more delicious.

Can I grill these skewers outdoors instead of cooking them on a skillet?

Definitely! These skewers shine on the grill, giving that extra smoky char. Just keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary, and always ensure the chicken is cooked through.

What can I serve if I want a vegetarian or vegan version?

You can swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the same blend. The peanut sauce is naturally vegan if you replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari, making it a perfect plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making and sharing Thai Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce—the combination of juicy marinated chicken, smoky char, and luscious peanut sauce is simply unbeatable. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers bring warmth and joy to the table. Don’t hesitate to try them out and discover why this recipe has become a beloved favorite—it might just be your new go-to for crowd-pleasing deliciousness!