Peanut Butter Chicken

“Discover the perfect blend of creamy, savory flavors with this easy Peanut Butter Chicken recipe! Made with tender chicken thighs and a rich peanut butter sauce, this dish is packed with delicious spices, a hint of sweetness, and a touch of lime. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner option the whole family will love. Serve it with rice, garnish with cilantro, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal. This peanut butter chicken recipe is perfect for weeknights or meal prep, and can be customized to suit your taste!”

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Sauce

• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons lime juice

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

To Serve

• Cooked rice
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, coconut milk, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Set the sauce aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and brown it for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
   • Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Peanut Butter Sauce:
   • Slowly pour the prepared peanut butter sauce into the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
   • Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the peanut butter chicken over cooked rice, spooning extra sauce over the chicken.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional red pepper flakes for extra flavor, if desired.

---

Tips

• Adjusting Spice Level: You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes in both the sauce and as a garnish.
• Using Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute boneless, skinless breasts for thighs. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Simmering the Sauce: Letting the sauce simmer will help deepen the flavors and ensure that the chicken absorbs the delicious peanut butter sauce.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute Peanut Butter: If you’re allergic to peanuts, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
• Coconut Milk Substitution: If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use heavy cream or even a little chicken broth as a substitute.

---

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

What can I serve this with besides rice?
While rice is a great pairing, this dish also works well with quinoa, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Rice Options: Serve this peanut butter chicken over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, or green onions for a burst of freshness.
• Pair with Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers complement the rich and creamy sauce.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The peanut butter sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from the soy sauce, coconut milk, and a hint of lime.
• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful weekend dinner.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adjusting the spice level or switching up the protein, making it a family-friendly favorite.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and fragrant rice makes for a comforting, satisfying meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!