Chicken Satay Recipe: Authentic & Easy Grilled Skewers

Craving a Taste of the Exotic? You NEED This Chicken Satay Recipe!

Imagine tender, juicy chicken skewers, perfectly marinated and grilled to golden perfection, then dipped in a rich, creamy peanut sauce. Sound like a dream? Well, this Chicken Satay recipe is your ticket to that delicious reality! It’s surprisingly easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love It

• The marinade is a flavor bomb – sweet, savory, and a little spicy all in one!
• The chicken stays incredibly juicy and tender thanks to the overnight marinade.
• It’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and impressive weekend gatherings.
• The creamy peanut sauce is the perfect complement to the grilled chicken.
• It’s highly customizable – you can adjust the spice level and sauce consistency to your liking.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike some Chicken Satay recipes that rely on pre-made sauces, this one focuses on creating a vibrant, fresh marinade from scratch. The use of lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric powder gives the chicken an authentic flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. We also use a unique technique of soaking the wooden skewers to prevent burning, ensuring that your satay sticks will cook evenly and beautifully.

Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
• Marinade:
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (adds depth of umami)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Peanut Sauce:
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or other hot sauce, to taste)
• 1/4 cup water (or more, to reach desired consistency)
• For serving:
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, minced lemongrass, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together all the peanut sauce ingredients: peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sriracha, and water. Add more water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
4. Thread the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the soaked wooden skewers. Don’t overcrowd the skewers.
5. Grill the Satay: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken satay hot, with the peanut sauce for dipping.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Get creative with your satay! Here are some ideas to try:

• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the satay for added flavor and crunch.
• Chopped peanuts: Add some texture by scattering chopped peanuts over the finished dish.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up the flavors.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges for extra tang.

Expert Tips

• Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to really penetrate, resulting in a more flavorful and tender satay.
• Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill. Cook in batches for even cooking.
• Watch the chicken closely while grilling to avoid overcooking and drying out.
• Adjust the spice level of both the marinade and the peanut sauce to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can use chicken breast. However, be careful not to overcook it as it can become dry.
• Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time? Yes, the peanut sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk it well before serving.
• Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill? Absolutely! A grill pan or indoor grill will work just fine. Just make sure to heat it well before adding the skewers.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover chicken satay and peanut sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken skewers before grilling. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicier Satay: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the marinade and peanut sauce for extra heat.
• Sweet & Tangy Satay: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for extra sweetness, and use rice vinegar instead of lime juice for added tang.
• Coconut Chicken Satay: Add a tablespoon of coconut milk to the marinade for a subtle coconut flavor.
• Satay with different proteins: Substitute chicken with beef or pork. Make sure to adjust the marinating time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Satay is incredibly versatile. Serve it as an appetizer with a side of fresh veggies, or as a main course with coconut rice and a side salad. It’s also fantastic as part of a party platter or as a snack at your next barbecue. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

This Chicken Satay recipe is a surefire way to bring a taste of Southeast Asia to your kitchen. It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed by the results! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on social media. We’d love to see your Chicken Satay masterpieces! And while you’re here, why not subscribe to our newsletter for more tasty recipes and cooking tips?