Juicy, flame-grilled chicken skewers marinated in Southeast Asian spices and served with a rich, creamy, spicy peanut sauce—this dish brings bold, authentic flavor to your table. Whether served as an appetizer, party platter, or a flavorful main course, this grilled chicken satay is a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken satay recipe is packed with bold flavors from a well-balanced marinade that infuses the chicken with tang, sweetness, and spice. The creamy peanut sauce offers the perfect contrast—nutty, rich, and with just the right amount of heat. Easy to prepare and grill, these skewers are perfect for gatherings, summer cookouts, or a fun weeknight dinner. They’re also highly versatile, pairing beautifully with rice, noodles, or fresh salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)

For the peanut sauce:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce or sriracha
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/3 cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)

Garnish:

• Chopped roasted peanuts
• Fresh chopped cilantro

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the skewers.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
6. While the chicken cooks, whisk together all the peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl. Gradually add warm water until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
7. Serve the grilled chicken skewers hot with peanut sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Vegetarian Satay: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Marinate and grill as directed.
• Baked Option: Bake skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
• Spicy Version: Increase chili garlic sauce or add crushed red pepper to both the marinade and sauce.
• Coconut Infusion: Add 1–2 tablespoons of coconut milk to the peanut sauce for a creamier flavor.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Serve with lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftover chicken satay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store the peanut sauce separately in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or gently warm in a skillet.
• Reheat peanut sauce over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of water if needed to loosen.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs are preferred for their juicier texture and better flavor retention on the grill.

What does satay mean?

Satay refers to skewered and grilled meat, typically served with a flavorful dipping sauce, popular in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Can I make the marinade in advance?

Yes, the marinade can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from chili garlic sauce and chili flakes. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the sauce?

Yes, but creamy peanut butter provides a smoother texture. Crunchy may alter the consistency.

What side dishes go well with chicken satay?

Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, steamed vegetables, or rice noodles.

Can I freeze marinated chicken?

Yes, marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before grilling.

Can I serve the peanut sauce cold?

Yes, the sauce can be served cold or at room temperature. Stir before serving if it thickens.

Is hoisin sauce necessary?

Hoisin sauce adds depth, but it can be substituted with extra soy sauce and a touch of maple syrup or brown sugar.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s simple enough for everyday meals yet special enough for entertaining. With its tender, well-marinated chicken and bold, creamy peanut sauce, this recipe brings the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia to your kitchen in an approachable and delicious way.

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