Thai Peanut Chicken Flavorful and Simple Recipe

January 5, 2026April 25, 2025 by Chef Jamie

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow)

– 1 medium onion, sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 carrot, julienned

– 1 cup snap peas

– ½ cup creamy peanut butter

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey

– 1 tablespoon lime juice

– 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh cilantro

– Chopped peanuts

Cooking Essentials

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

I love using chicken breast in this dish. It cooks fast and stays juicy. Choose a bell pepper, any color works great. The onion adds a sweet taste, while garlic and ginger give a nice kick. Broccoli, carrots, and snap peas add crunch and color.

Peanut butter is the star of the sauce. It gives creaminess and richness. Soy sauce adds saltiness, and honey brings a touch of sweetness. Lime juice adds brightness, while chili paste gives it some heat.

For garnishes, fresh cilantro adds a fresh flavor. Chopped peanuts add a nice crunch. You can mix and match veggies, too. Just make sure you enjoy what you put in your dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken

Start with 500g of chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry it for about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now, it’s time for the veggies. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell pepper. Toss in 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. Sauté these for 2 to 3 minutes until they are slightly tender. Then, add 1 cup of broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and 1 cup of snap peas. Stir-fry for another 3 to 4 minutes. This helps keep the veggies vibrant and crisp-tender.

Making the Peanut Sauce

While the vegetables cook, let’s make the peanut sauce. In a bowl, mix ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of chili paste. Whisk these together until smooth. If you like it spicier, add more chili paste to taste.

Combining Ingredients

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over everything. Stir it all together until well coated. Heat it for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything is warm and flavors blend nicely. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more soy sauce or chili paste to make it just right.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Use vegetable oil for frying. It has a high smoke point.

– Avoid olive oil, as it can burn easily.

– Keep your heat medium-high. This helps cook the chicken fast.

– Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed.

– For crisp veggies, cook them just until tender.

– Sauté them in the right order. Start with onions, then add peppers.

Perfecting the Peanut Sauce

– For a thicker sauce, add more peanut butter.

– To thin it out, add water or more lime juice.

– Taste as you mix. This helps you adjust the flavor.

– Want more heat? Add extra chili paste.

– For a sweeter sauce, increase the honey amount.

– Try adding a splash of coconut milk for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

– For a fresh touch, add cucumber slices on the side.

– Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for crunch.

– Use a colorful plate to make your dish pop.

– Arrange the chicken and veggies in a circle.

– Drizzle extra sauce on top for a beautiful finish.

Variations

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you need gluten-free options, try tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Tamari is a great choice. It tastes similar but has no gluten. For those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both options soak up the peanut sauce well and add protein.

Flavor Variations

To give your Thai peanut chicken a kick, add more chili paste. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for extra heat. If you prefer sweetness, add a bit more honey. Feel free to mix in different vegetables too! Zucchini, bell peppers, or bok choy can all work well. Just make sure to cook them until they are crisp-tender.

Serving Options

You can serve Thai peanut chicken over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Both options soak up the sauce nicely. If you want something lighter, try it in wraps or lettuce cups. This makes for a fun, fresh way to enjoy the dish. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing!

Storage Info

Refrigeration and Reheating

Store leftover Thai peanut chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Let it cool before sealing to avoid steam buildup. In the fridge, it lasts up to three days.

When you want to reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. This helps keep the chicken and veggies tender. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Stir until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Freezing Thai Peanut Chicken

You can freeze Thai peanut chicken for up to three months. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can to avoid freezer burn.

To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. For a quick method, use the microwave on the defrost setting. Once thawed, reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, Thai peanut chicken lasts about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

FAQs

What is Thai Peanut Chicken?

Thai Peanut Chicken is a tasty dish that features chicken and vegetables. It has a creamy peanut sauce that is both sweet and savory. You’ll enjoy flavors from garlic, ginger, and a hint of lime. The dish is colorful, easy to make, and great for family meals.

Can I use different meats?

Yes, you can! This recipe works well with pork, shrimp, or tofu. Each meat brings its own taste. Just adjust the cooking time. For shrimp, cook until pink. For tofu, choose firm or extra-firm and sauté until golden.

Is Thai Peanut Chicken spicy?

The spice level can vary. This dish gets heat from chili paste. If you prefer less spice, use less chili paste. You can always add more later. Taste the sauce before serving to find your perfect heat.

What can I serve with Thai Peanut Chicken?

You can serve it with rice or noodles. Steamed jasmine rice goes well with it. You might also enjoy it with a fresh salad or spring rolls. These sides balance the rich flavors of the chicken.

How can I make it healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use less peanut butter or choose a natural version. Swap regular soy sauce for low-sodium soy sauce. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, for extra nutrients.

This article covers how to make Thai Peanut Chicken from scratch. We discussed essential ingredients, how to prep chicken, sauté vegetables, and create a smooth peanut sauce. You also learned tips for storing leftovers and meal variations.

In conclusion, this dish is both fun and easy to make. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients to match your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in every bite of your Thai Peanut Chicke