Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring freshness and depth without complicating the process. I always opt for quality peanut butter — creamy is my go-to for that smooth sauce texture. Fresh garlic and ginger add a bright kick, while lime juice brings the perfect zesty balance. When it comes to chicken, boneless skinless thighs work beautifully for juiciness, but breasts are a fine substitute if you prefer leaner meat. I also like adding crunchy veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to brighten the dish and sneak in some extra nutrients for my kids.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1/2 cup snap peas or green beans (optional)
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and water or chicken broth. Mix well to create a smooth sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and snap peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for that extra pop of texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Thai Peanut Chicken, recipe, cooking, food
