Chicken Satay Skewers are a culinary delight that brings together the rich flavors of Southeast Asia in a dish that’s both simple to prepare and immensely satisfying. Grilled to perfection, these skewers are a fusion of tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, paired with a luscious peanut sauce that offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. This dish holds a special place in my heart and kitchen, as it has become a family favorite. The first time I made chicken satay skewers, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone to the dining table. The kids couldn’t get enough of them, and the adults appreciated the complex yet comforting flavors that the peanut sauce added to the dish. It’s a recipe that has since become a staple at our family gatherings, always garnering requests for seconds and sometimes even thirds.
Ingredients
To make these delightful chicken satay skewers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- Skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- For the peanut sauce:
- ½ cup of creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of chili paste (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup of coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons of fish sauce
Instructions
Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, vegetable oil, brown sugar, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the peanut sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chili paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce. Stir the mixture over low heat until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more chili paste. Once the sauce is ready, set it aside to cool.
When you are ready to cook the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken satay skewers hot, accompanied by the peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 400 calories. It’s a nutritious meal that offers a good balance of protein, healthy fats from the peanut sauce, and a moderate amount of carbohydrates to keep you energized.
Preparation Time
The total preparation time for chicken satay skewers is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marination. The marination process takes 1 hour, while the remaining 30 minutes are spent preparing the peanut sauce and grilling the chicken skewers. This makes it a great recipe to prepare ahead of time, especially if you have a busy schedule. Simply marinate the chicken the night before, and you’ll have a quick and delicious meal ready in no time the next day.
How to Serve
Chicken satay skewers can be served in various ways to suit your preferences and occasion:
- As an appetizer: Serve the skewers as a starter at a dinner party, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors before the main course.
- With rice: Pair the skewers with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a complete meal that captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine.
- In a wrap: Use the chicken satay as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, adding fresh vegetables and herbs for a refreshing twist.
- On a salad: Top a green salad with sliced chicken satay for a healthy and flavorful lunch option.
- As part of a buffet: Include the skewers in a buffet spread, allowing guests to serve themselves at their leisure.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the most of this recipe:
- Choose the right cut of chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they remain moist and tender when grilled.
- Don’t skip the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour is crucial for infusing it with flavor.
- Keep the skewers soaked: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Adjust the spice level: Tailor the spiciness of the peanut sauce to your taste by varying the amount of chili paste used.
- Experiment with garnishes: Enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish by adding garnishes such as chopped peanuts or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful when grilled.
- How can I make the peanut sauce nut-free?
To make a nut-free version of the sauce, you can substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini for peanut butter.
- What can I use instead of fish sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and lime juice for a similar taste.
- Can I cook the skewers in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same marination and grilling steps.
In conclusion, Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce is a versatile dish that brings the taste of Southeast Asia to your table. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger spread, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its delectable flavors and satisfying texture. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.