Peanut Butter Chicken

Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion dish that brings together creamy, nutty peanut butter with savory, aromatic spices. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed over rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps. Packed with protein and rich flavors, this dish is a perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chicken

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (~750 kcal)
2 tbsp olive oil (~240 kcal)
1 tsp salt (0 kcal)
½ tsp black pepper (~3 kcal)
½ tsp smoked paprika (~3 kcal)

For the Peanut Butter Sauce:

¾ cup (190 g) creamy peanut butter (~1140 kcal)
1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk (full-fat or light, as preferred) (~445 kcal for full-fat)
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) (~20 kcal)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness) (~64 kcal)
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (~1 kcal)
1 tsp grated fresh ginger (~2 kcal)
2 garlic cloves, minced (~9 kcal)
1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat) (~6 kcal)
¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth or water, to adjust consistency (~4 kcal)

Garnish:

¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (~210 kcal)
Fresh cilantro leaves (~1 kcal)
Sliced green onions (~5 kcal)

Serving Suggestions:

Steamed jasmine rice (~200 kcal per ½ cup)
Stir-fried vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) (~50–70 kcal per serving)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce. If you have more time, marinate for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes until smooth. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your taste.
If the mixture is too thick, add chicken broth or water gradually until it reaches a pourable consistency.

3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4: Simmer the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour the prepared peanut butter sauce into the same skillet.
Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Peanut Butter Chicken to a serving dish.
Sprinkle with roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for added texture and freshness.
Serve hot over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (with sauce only, excluding rice or vegetables):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Sugars: 4 g
Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 820 mg

Ingredient Breakdown:

Chicken (1.5 lbs): ~750 kcal
Peanut Butter (¾ cup): ~1140 kcal
Coconut Milk (1 cup): ~445 kcal (full-fat)
Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): ~20 kcal
Honey (1 tbsp): ~64 kcal
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): ~240 kcal
Garnishes (optional): ~50 kcal

This detailed breakdown provides insight into the calorie content, allowing you to adjust portion sizes or ingredients as needed.

Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Chicken

Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils. This enhances the flavor without unnecessary additives.
Balance the Flavors: If the sauce feels too rich, add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar for acidity.
Adjust the Spice Level: For a spicier dish, increase the chili flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha.
Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken with tofu, shrimp, or tempeh for a different take.
Make it Low-Calorie: Use powdered peanut butter mixed with water instead of regular peanut butter to reduce fat content.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peanut butter sauce and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken and combine it with the sauce just before serving.

2. How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Peanut Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients, like peanut butter, are certified gluten-free.

4. Can I freeze Peanut Butter Chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are excellent base options. For vegetables, consider stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the sauce.

This Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Its creamy, savory flavor profile is sure to impress, while the ease of preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions. By following this guide, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced and satisfying. Enjoy the journey of cooking and savoring this flavorful masterpiece!