Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience a delightful blend of creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken with this Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken recipe. Packed with aromatic flavors and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
This dish combines the nutty flavor of peanuts with tender chicken, creating a satisfying meal perfect for the whole family.
A Flavorful Journey
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, and this Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken encapsulates that wonderfully. The creamy peanut sauce is the star of the show, providing a rich and satisfying base that complements the tender chicken perfectly. Every bite bursts with a balance of sweet, salty, and savory undertones that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the delicious peanut sauce, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful. This method not only enhances the taste but also makes meal prep a breeze. You can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax or tackle other tasks around the house.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also perfect for meal prepping. Making a large batch in the slow cooker means you can enjoy it all week long. Portion it out into containers for quick lunches or dinners; just heat it up and serve over rice or noodles. It’s a great way to ensure you have wholesome, homemade meals ready to go, saving time and money in the long run.
Additionally, the ingredients are simple and affordable, making this recipe an accessible option for families and individuals alike. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes, catering to the preferences of your family members. This versatility makes it a great dish for gatherings, as it can easily suit different palates.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delightful dish with steamed jasmine rice or tender noodles for a complete meal. The rice will absorb the sauce, providing a perfect canvas for the rich flavors of the chicken. You can also serve it with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to add some crunch and freshness to your plate.
For a bit of added texture and presentation, garnish the finished dish with chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, or a sprinkle of cilantro. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten up the entire meal, enhancing the authentic Thai flavors and adding an extra layer of freshness.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken:
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine. Serve over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your meal with fresh herbs and lime wedges!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts? Absolutely! While the chicken thighs provide a rich flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can be used as a lighter option. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they may cook faster.
How can I make this dish Vegan? To create a vegan version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu and replace honey with maple syrup. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the tofu absorbs all the delicious sauce.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
If you want to keep this dish for a longer period, consider freezing it. Once cool, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may dry out faster than thighs.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Experience a delightful blend of creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken with this Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken recipe. Packed with aromatic flavors and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine. Serve over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 25g