How to Prepare Delicious Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Chicken satay, a beloved dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly popular during summer picnics and family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken chunks grilled over charcoal or skewered on sticks, paired with the rich peanut sauce, is truly a treat for the taste buds. This article will guide you through preparing this delightful meal at home. Not only is it delicious but also relatively simple to make.

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

500 grams chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamier texture)
1-2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (adjust according to taste)
4-6 bamboo skewers or wooden sticks
Green onions and peanuts for garnish

Cooking Time: 1 hour including marination time.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Marinating the Chicken

To start, combine all ingredients except for chicken and skewers in a large bowl. Stir until well blended to form a thick sauce. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Let it sit at room temperature for about 1-2 hours or refrigerate overnight if time permits.

Preparation

Step 1: Skewering Chicken:

Prepare bamboo skewers by soaking them in water to prevent burning when placed over the fire. This is a crucial step as it ensures your chicken doesn't stick and burns.
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers. To achieve even cooking, aim for 5-6 pieces per skewer.

Step 2: Grilling:

Select a grill or barbecue. Preheat it to medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the fire is well-lit and glowing red before placing chicken satay on the grate.
Place skewered chicken directly over the flame for approximately 10 minutes, turning frequently until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 75°C (165°F).

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Once the chicken is done grilling, let it rest briefly to retain moisture. Serve on a platter with a generous drizzle of peanut sauce. Garnish with finely chopped green onions and crushed peanuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Peanut Sauce: A Flavorful Companion

The peanut sauce adds depth and richness to the dish. It can be easily prepared in advance, making it ideal for last-minute meal planning. If desired, you may add coconut milk to enhance its creaminess or omit it entirely for a lighter option.

Enjoyment Tips:

Pair your Chicken Satay with steamed jasmine rice for an authentic experience.
For those looking to experiment, try adding cilantro leaves and slivers of cucumber alongside for added freshness.

In conclusion, preparing Chicken Satay is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. With its aromatic peanut sauce and perfectly grilled chicken pieces, this dish can serve as the centerpiece of any meal or party. Whether you're cooking it up on a weekend afternoon or hosting friends over, Chicken Satay remains a favorite among food enthusiasts.