Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Name: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1/2 cup coconut milk; Cooked rice or noodles; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the bold flavors of Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances heat and sweetness.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T21:58:27.725Z

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The creamy peanut sauce combined with the spicy kick creates a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy peanut sauce with a spicy kick
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of peanut butter with the heat of chili powder and Sriracha. The creamy texture of the peanut sauce envelops the juicy chicken, creating a perfect marriage of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe showcases how contrasting tastes can harmonize beautifully, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a little spice in their meals.

The addition of honey in the peanut sauce balances the heat, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making this dish not only satisfying but also incredibly enjoyable. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable dining experience.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be challenging. That's what makes Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The quick marination process infuses the chicken with flavor, while the sauce comes together effortlessly in one skillet.

This recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing taste. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Simply marinate the chicken, cook it, and whip up the sauce for a delicious dinner that the entire family will love.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is not only delicious fresh but also makes for excellent leftovers. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy its bold flavors throughout the week. Simply store the chicken and peanut sauce in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner. Pair it with fresh rice or noodles, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Moreover, the flavors tend to deepen after sitting, making leftovers even more enjoyable than the first serving. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a versatile dish that keeps giving, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their weekly meal planning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Peanut Sauce

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup coconut milk

To Serve

Cooked rice or noodles
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds

Combine all chicken ingredients in a bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet.

Make the Peanut Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Sriracha, and coconut milk. Stir until smooth and heated through.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the peanut sauce. Serve over cooked rice or noodles, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken with a side of fresh vegetables!

Tips for the Best Results

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for longer than the recommended 30 minutes. If time permits, marinating it overnight will enhance the taste significantly. Additionally, feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of Sriracha or chili powder according to your preference.

Using fresh ingredients can also make a big difference in the final dish. Fresh garlic and ginger provide a more robust flavor compared to their powdered counterparts. Always taste your sauce as you prepare it; this way, you can tweak the sweetness or spiciness to perfectly suit your palate.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles, which help to soak up the rich peanut sauce. For a healthier alternative, consider serving it with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice. These options not only complement the flavors but also add a nutritious twist to your meal.

To elevate your dining experience, garnish the finished dish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.