What To Know
- This dish captures the essence of traditional satay, where tender chicken skewers are marinated in a rich peanut sauce and grilled to perfection, served alongside fluffy and fragrant coconut rice.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- The tender chicken skewers, marinated in a rich peanut sauce and grilled to perfection, paired with fluffy coconut rice, create a harmonious symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Embark on a culinary journey to Southeast Asia with this delectable chicken satay recipe with rice, a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. This dish captures the essence of traditional satay, where tender chicken skewers are marinated in a rich peanut sauce and grilled to perfection, served alongside fluffy and fragrant coconut rice. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this symphony of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Satay:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 12 wooden skewers
For the Coconut Rice:
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pandan leaf, tied into a knot (optional)
For Serving:
- Cucumber slices
- Red onion slices
- Lime wedges
- Peanut sauce (additional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Satay Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Make the Coconut Rice:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and pandan leaf (if using).
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
3. Grill the Chicken Satay:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the wooden skewers, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Assemble and Serve:
- Place a bed of fragrant coconut rice on a plate.
- Arrange the grilled chicken satay skewers on top of the rice.
- Garnish with cucumber slices, red onion slices, lime wedges, and additional peanut sauce, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay:
- Use high-quality peanut butter for a rich and creamy marinade.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
- Grill the chicken satay over medium-high heat to achieve a slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Serve the chicken satay immediately with a generous dollop of peanut sauce for an authentic Southeast Asian experience.
Variations and Substitutions:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
- Add a touch of heat by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or cashews, in the peanut sauce for a unique flavor twist.
- Use basmati rice instead of jasmine rice for a slightly different texture and aroma.
Health Benefits of Chicken Satay with Rice:
- Chicken is a lean protein source that provides essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium.
- Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber for a balanced meal.
- The spices used in the marinade, such as curry powder, cumin, and coriander, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
The Bottom Line:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Southeast Asia with this chicken satay recipe with rice. The tender chicken skewers, marinated in a rich peanut sauce and grilled to perfection, paired with fluffy coconut rice, create a harmonious symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Experiment with variations and substitutions to suit your preferences and dietary needs, and enjoy this dish as a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use store-bought peanut sauce instead of making my own?
- Yes, you can use store-bought peanut sauce as a convenient option. However, making your own peanut sauce allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.
2. What other vegetables can I add to the coconut rice?
- You can add various vegetables to the coconut rice for a more colorful and nutritious dish. Some popular options include chopped carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers.
3. How can I make the chicken satay skewers even more flavorful?
- To enhance the flavor of the chicken satay skewers, try adding a teaspoon of lemongrass paste or grated ginger to the marinade. You can also brush the skewers with a mixture of honey and soy sauce during grilling for a sweet and savory glaze.
