Easy Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

These chicken satay skewers are made with tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a coconut milk-based marinade and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Paired with a creamy, savory peanut sauce, this easy recipe brings the delicious flavors of Southeast Asia right to your kitchen. Simply marinate the chicken, thread it onto skewers, and let the air fryer do the rest. This easy chicken satay with peanut sauce is an easy, flavorful, and nourishing meal that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The chicken is marinated in a savory, aromatic blend that makes every bite delicious.
• Creamy peanut sauce: The rich dipping sauce adds the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
• Meal-prep friendly: The chicken can be marinated ahead of time, making it easy to prepare when you are ready to cook.

Origin

Chicken satay is a popular dish throughout Southeast Asia. Satay is especially popular in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, with each country adding its own seasonings and cooking styles.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
  • Juicy and tender protein
• 1 tsp paprika
  • Adds subtle smokiness
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • Brings an earthy flavor
• 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Adds a warm and aromatic flavor
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • Adds umami
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
  • Adds a blend of aromatic spices
• ¼ cup coconut milk
  • Helps tenderize the chicken and create a creamy sauce

For the Peanut Sauce

• ½ cup smooth peanut butter
  • Creamy nutty base
• 1 cup coconut milk
  • Loosens the peanut butter and adds richness to the sauce
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
  • Adds a blend of aromatic spices
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • Touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness
• Chopped peanuts, for garnish
  • Crunchy finish

Click on the images for the direct link to the ingredients/tools I used:

Instructions

Add the paprika, turmeric, cumin, fish sauce, red curry paste, and coconut milk to a bowl. Whisk until the marinade is well combined and smooth.

Add the chicken thighs and toss until they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the chicken skewers in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

While the chicken cooks, add the peanut butter, coconut milk, red curry paste, brown sugar, and chopped peanuts to a saucepan. Warm over low heat, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not let it boil.

Transfer the chicken satay to a plate and drizzle with the warm peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional chopped peanuts.

Enjoy!

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Easy Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Tips

Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so it cooks evenly in the air fryer.

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.

If the peanut sauce is too thick, add a little water to thin it to your desired consistency.

Storage Tips

Fridge: Store chicken satay and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers. Store chicken for up to 3-4 days and the peanut sauce for up to 5 days.

Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350F for 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast works well, but be careful not to overcook it.

Can I freeze chicken satay?

Yes. Freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months.

Ingredient Substitution

Chicken thighs → Chicken breast
Coconut milk → Half-and-half or regular milk
Brown sugar → Honey

What to Serve With Chicken Satay

Jasmine rice → A simple, fluffy side that soaks up the peanut sauce.

Cucumber salad → A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the chicken.

Coconut rice → Adds subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spicy peanut sauce.

Spring rolls → A fun appetizer or side that complements the Southeast Asian flavors.

Common Mistakes

Cutting the chicken unevenly → Different-sized pieces can cook at different rates.

Skipping the marinade → Marinating helps the chicken absorb more flavor and stay juicy.

Overcrowding the air fryer → Too many pieces at once can prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if needed.

Making the peanut sauce too thick → Add a little water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.

If you enjoyed this easy chicken satay with peanut sauce, you might also like my air fryer char siu chicken or my Vietnamese caramelized chicken and eggs.

Vietnamese Caramelized Chicken and Eggs Recipe

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