If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of savory richness, then this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is going to be your new kitchen favorite. Combining tender chicken with a luscious peanut butter-based sauce, enhanced by the sweetness of Hoisin and the umami of soy sauce, this recipe is both simple and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or eager to impress guests with something a little different, this dish hits all the right notes in just fifteen minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and success of this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breast that forms the base, to the savory and creamy sauce that makes every bite memorable. These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Chicken breast (1 1/2 pounds, chopped): Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast for tender and juicy bites.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons) or almond flour: Helps create a light coating that crisps slightly when cooked.
- Peanut butter (1/4 cup): The star of the show, adding creamy richness and a nutty depth.
- Hoisin sauce (1/4 cup) or keto teriyaki sauce: Offers a sweet and slightly tangy kick to the sauce.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Brings salty umami that balances the peanut butter’s creaminess.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Delivers a toasty aroma that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds a punch of fresh flavor and warmth.
- Water (1/2 cup): Thins out the sauce to just the right consistency for coating.
- Oil (2 tablespoons, for frying): Essential for cooking the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by tossing the chopped chicken breast in cornstarch or almond flour until each piece is lightly coated. This simple step ensures the chicken cooks up with a slight crisp on the outside, locking in juices so every bite is tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, Hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and water. Whisking these ingredients creates a smooth, addictive sauce that perfectly balances salty, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers with warmth, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook them for about five minutes until they turn golden and are no longer pink inside. This step is key to achieving tender chicken with a satisfyingly crisp exterior.
Step 4: Add and Thicken the Sauce
Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken in the pan. Stir well to coat every piece before letting it simmer for five minutes. This simmering thickens the sauce to cling beautifully to the chicken, intensifying the dish’s rich, creamy flavor.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the dish. These garnishes add a delightful crunch and fresh pop of flavor, making each bite even more delicious.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sesame seeds and green onions are perfect garnishes for this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe, adding contrasting textures and subtle bursts of flavor. For an extra touch, a squeeze of lime or a handful of chopped cilantro can brighten the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the creamy peanut sauce superbly. You might also enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables, sautéed bok choy, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a playful twist, try serving the Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe in lettuce wraps, allowing guests to build their own bites. Another fun idea is pairing it with noodles or spiralized vegetables tossed in light sesame oil for a vibrant, noodle bowl-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover peanut butter chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before storing to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, freeze the cooked chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter alternatives?
Absolutely! While traditional peanut butter gives the best flavor, almond or cashew butter can be great substitutes if you want a different nutty twist or need a peanut-free option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari and using gluten-free Hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe can be enjoyed gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the sauce mixture will give the dish a nice, spicy kick that complements the creamy peanut flavor beautifully.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Use almond flour instead of cornstarch and opt for keto-friendly Hoisin or teriyaki sauces. This keeps the dish low in carbs while still delivering rich flavor.
What can I substitute for Hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have Hoisin sauce, a mix of soy sauce and a small amount of honey or molasses can mimic its sweet-savory qualities in this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is a true keeper in any home cook’s repertoire. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Once you try it, you’ll find it’s easy to make again and again, perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor one of the most delicious dishes you’ll make all year!
Print
Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breast pieces coated in cornstarch and cooked in a creamy, savory peanut butter and hoisin sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that blends rich Asian-inspired flavors with a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons corn starch (or almond flour)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup Hoisin sauce (or keto teriyaki sauce)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup water
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons oil (to fry)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Coat the chicken: In a small bowl, add the chopped chicken breast and cornstarch. Toss well until all pieces are evenly coated, which will help create a slightly crispy texture when cooked.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and water until smooth and well combined.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the chicken.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken for added flavor and a fresh garnish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use almond flour instead of cornstarch.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for a healthier option.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
