Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken

Introduction

If you’re a fan of bold, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors, then Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken is the perfect dish for you! This meal brings together tender, juicy chicken, a rich and nutty peanut sauce, and fragrant Thai spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy—just set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also highly versatile. You can serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, as the flavors deepen and improve overnight.

Now, let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for browning)

For the Thai Peanut Sauce:

• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk (full-fat for best flavor)
• ½ cup (120g) peanut butter (creamy or chunky, based on preference)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

For Garnish and Serving:

• ½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving
• Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles

this RECIPE

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper to enhance its flavor. If you have time, let it sit for 15 minutes.
2. Optional: Sear the chicken in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side. This step isn’t necessary but adds extra depth to the flavor.

Step 2: Make the Thai Peanut Sauce

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

4. Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker.
5. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.

Step 4: Shred and Finish the Sauce

7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add a little coconut milk or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

9. Serve the Thai peanut chicken over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles.
10. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, red chili, and lime wedges for extra flavor.

Helpful Tips for Making Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken

To ensure your Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken turns out perfect every time, follow these expert tips:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Chicken

• Best option: Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender after hours of slow cooking.
• Alternative: Chicken breasts work but can dry out. Reduce the cooking time slightly if using them.

2. Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor

• Browning the chicken in a skillet before slow cooking adds depth and richness to the final dish.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the extra caramelization is worth it!

3. Blend the Sauce for a Smoother Texture

• If you prefer a completely smooth sauce, blend the peanut butter, coconut milk, and other ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• This prevents any clumps and ensures even distribution of flavors.

4. Adjust the Spice to Your Preference

• Love heat? Add extra red pepper flakes, chili paste, or fresh Thai chilies.
• Prefer mild flavors? Reduce the spice or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.

5. Control the Sauce Consistency

• If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra coconut milk or broth.
• If the sauce is too thin, let the dish cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

6. Let the Flavors Develop

• This dish tastes even better the next day because the flavors meld together. Consider making it ahead for meal prep.

Variations

This Thai peanut chicken is highly customizable! Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetarian Option

Swap out the chicken for cubed tofu or chickpeas. Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or baby corn for extra texture.

Nut-Free Alternative

Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini to create a nut-free version of the dish.

Extra Veggies

Stir in spinach, bok choy, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a boost of color and nutrients.

Creamier Sauce

For an ultra-creamy sauce, mix in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Meal Prep

You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and cook when ready.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional Pairings

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a classic Thai experience.
• Pair with rice noodles or quinoa for a fun twist.
• Enjoy with naan or roti to scoop up the rich sauce.

Low-Carb Options

• Serve in lettuce cups for a fresh and healthy alternative.
• Pair with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Side Dishes

• Thai Cucumber Salad – A refreshing, tangy salad balances the creamy sauce.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Such as broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots.
• Spring Rolls – A light and crunchy side to complement the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply follow these steps:

• Sauté the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat until browned.
• Add the sauce ingredients, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once the chicken is tender, shred it and mix it back into the sauce before serving.

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture and extra peanut flavor. Just be sure to mix it well into the sauce.

3. How do I make this dish nut-free?

Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.

4. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes! Try these options:

• Tofu or tempeh – For a vegetarian version, cube firm tofu and add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Shrimp – Cook separately and toss in at the end, as shrimp cook quickly.
• Beef or pork – Use thinly sliced cuts and increase the cooking time if needed.

5. What if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can substitute with:

• Heavy cream – This will make the dish extra creamy.
• Cashew milk or almond milk – These work well but might make the sauce slightly thinner.
• Chicken broth + a little cream – A good alternative if you prefer a lighter sauce.

6. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier!

7. Can I freeze Thai Peanut Chicken?

Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

8. How do I reheat this dish without drying it out?

• On the stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth to keep it moist.
• In the microwave: Reheat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Add extra sauce if needed.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Definitely! If your slow cooker is large enough, you can easily double the ingredients. Just ensure everything is evenly coated with sauce.

10. What can I serve with Thai Peanut Chicken?

It pairs perfectly with:

Steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy

Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice

Rice noodles or quinoa

Fresh lettuce wraps for a low-carb option

Conclusion

Slow-Cooked Thai Peanut Chicken is a dish that brings together the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Thanks to the slow cooker, it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.

With its easy preparation, ability to store well, and multiple variations, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even special occasions. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Thai cuisine right from your kitchen!

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