These chicken satay skewers are marinated in a bold blend of Southeast Asian spices and grilled to juicy perfection. Paired with a rich, creamy peanut dipping sauce, this dish is bursting with sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Yields: Approximately 12-15 skewers
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Why You’ll Love This
✔ Restaurant-quality with authentic marinade
✔ Grill, bake, or air fryer options
✔ Meal-prep friendly (marinate overnight)
✔ 2 dipping sauces included
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- Vegetable oil, for brushing
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons hot water, or more to reach desired consistency
For Serving (optional):
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped peanuts
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, curry powder, turmeric powder, and ground cumin. Add the minced garlic and shallot. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Toss to ensure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the peanut sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (or brown sugar), sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), and fish sauce. Gradually add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency (it should be thick but pourable). Set aside.
Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Satay
- Preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with vegetable oil. Arrange the chicken skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Alternatively, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the cooked chicken satay skewers from the grill or pan. Serve immediately with the prepared peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped cilantro, chopped peanuts, and lime wedges, if desired.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 3 skewers)
- Calories 420
- Protein 38g
- Carbs 15g
- Iron 25% DV
💡 Pro Tips
✅ Extra tender: Add 1 tbsp baking soda to the marinade (rinse after 15 mins)
✅ Charred edges: Brush with coconut milk while grilling
✅ No lemongrass? Use ½ tsp ginger + 1 tsp lime zest
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Street Food Style
- Serve with sticky rice in banana leaves
- Appetizer Platter
- Add spring rolls and mango salad
- Low-Carb
- Pair with zucchini noodles
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Satay Skewers!
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