What To Know
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, tamarind paste, peanut butter, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add an extra teaspoon of red chili powder to the marinade and peanut sauce for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different sauces, such as a spicy peanut sauce, a sweet and sour sauce, or a creamy coconut sauce.
Embark on a culinary journey to Southeast Asia with this delectable chicken satay recipe. Chicken satay is a popular dish that originated in Indonesia and has captivated taste buds worldwide. These succulent chicken skewers, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and grilled to perfection, are sure to tantalize your senses. The accompanying peanut sauce adds a creamy and nutty richness, making this dish an irresistible treat. Get ready to indulge in this easy and quick chicken satay recipe that promises an explosion of flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Satay:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken Satay:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, tamarind paste, peanut butter, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Skewer the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Grill the Satay: Place the skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Making the Peanut Sauce:
1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, tamarind paste, rice vinegar, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
2. Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
3. Season to Taste: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and adjust the seasonings as desired. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
1. Presentation: Arrange the grilled chicken satay skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the peanut sauce generously over the satay. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
2. Accompaniments: Serve the chicken satay with a side of steamed jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or pickled vegetables. These accompaniments will complement the flavors of the satay perfectly.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender and juicy satay.
- Marinate the Chicken Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to infuse it with flavors.
- Use Quality Peanut Butter: Choose a creamy and smooth peanut butter for a rich and flavorful peanut sauce.
- Grill the Satay to Perfection: Cook the satay over medium-high heat to achieve a slightly charred exterior while keeping the chicken tender and moist.
Variations:
1. Vegetarian Satay: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken to create a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
2. Spicy Satay: Add an extra teaspoon of red chili powder to the marinade and peanut sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Satay with Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces, such as a spicy peanut sauce, a sweet and sour sauce, or a creamy coconut sauce.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Storing: Leftover chicken satay can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat the satay, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through.
“Chicken Satay: A Culinary Delight” – Conclusion:
This chicken satay recipe is a culinary gem that combines the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia with the convenience of a quick and easy meal. The tender chicken, marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, pairs perfectly with the creamy and nutty peanut sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary adventure with this delectable chicken satay recipe.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the best way to marinate the chicken for satay?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Be sure to use a flavorful marinade that includes aromatic spices and a touch of acidity, such as tamarind paste or lemon juice.
2. How do I achieve a slightly charred exterior on the satay?
To achieve a slightly charred exterior while keeping the chicken tender and moist, cook the satay over medium-high heat. Make sure to turn the skewers frequently to ensure even cooking.
3. Can I substitute other ingredients in the peanut sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the peanut sauce to your liking. Try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different types of nuts, such as almond butter or cashew butter, for a unique flavor profile.
