Here’s a flavorful and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Satay, complete with a rich peanut sauce:
Slow Cooker Chicken Satay
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
For Serving:
- Cooked jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Steamed or roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, coriander, and chili powder.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and sriracha.
- Heat gently until smooth and creamy, adding water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Shred or Slice the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. You can shred it with two forks or slice it into chunks, depending on your preference.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the chicken over jasmine rice or coconut rice.
- Drizzle with the peanut sauce and garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Add steamed or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a grilled flavor: After cooking, broil the chicken in the oven for 3–5 minutes to add a slightly charred texture.
- Make it lighter: Use light coconut milk or swap for almond milk in the sauce.
- Vegetarian option: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken, and reduce the cooking time to 2–3 hours on low.
- Leftovers: The chicken and sauce freeze well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
This slow cooker chicken satay is rich, creamy, and perfect for a flavorful dinner with minimal effort!