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Peanut Butter Chicken

Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken

This Thai-inspired creamy peanut butter chicken is savory, nutty, slightly sweet, and bursting with flavor. Tender seared chicken thighs simmer in a rich coconut-peanut sauce balanced with soy sauce, lime juice, chili sauce, and fresh basil. Better than takeout and ready in just 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: Asian, Thai-Inspired
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 tsp chili garlic sauce or Sriracha
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Optional: chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, ground ginger, turmeric, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce, and chili garlic sauce to the skillet. Whisk until smooth and combined, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh basil and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with cilantro or chopped peanuts if desired.

Notes

Use creamy processed peanut butter for the smoothest sauce—natural peanut butter may separate unless whisked with extra water. Full-fat coconut milk gives the richest texture. Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts. Add basil and lime at the end to brighten the dish.

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