ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions for Chicken Sate with Peanut Seasoning:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes or thin strips for even cooking. If using chicken thighs, trim off any excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, turmeric, lime juice, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well to combine into a smooth marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce:
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), lime juice, coconut milk, sesame oil, ground ginger, and minced garlic.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the peanut butter has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a bit more coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce is well-combined and smooth, remove from heat and set aside. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce or lime juice if needed. For an added kick, sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you don’t have skewers, you can also grill the chicken directly on the grill grates or on a grill pan.
4. Grill the Chicken:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- As the chicken grills, you can baste it with a little bit of the leftover marinade to enhance the flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char, remove the skewers from the grill.
- Drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over the chicken or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little extra heat and color.
Serving Suggestions:
- Rice or Noodles: Serve the Chicken Sate with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or Asian-style noodles for a complete meal.
- Salad or Veggies: Pair it with a fresh, crunchy salad or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to balance out the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Side Dips: For extra flavor, serve the dish with side dips like pickled cucumbers, a tangy mango chutney, or a side of fresh chopped vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sate with Peanut Seasoning:
- Bursting with Flavor: The marinade for the chicken is packed with umami from soy sauce, depth from sesame oil, and warmth from ginger and turmeric. The peanut sauce brings an irresistible creaminess with a slightly sweet and tangy finish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or grilling outdoors, this dish is sure to impress.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spiciness, sweetness, or creaminess to suit your personal preferences. You can also switch up the proteins and use shrimp, pork, or tofu for different variations.
- Healthy and Satisfying: With lean chicken and a flavorful, protein-rich peanut sauce, this dish is not only tasty but also satisfying without being too heavy.
Tips for the Best Chicken Sate:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to great flavor lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh garlic, ginger, and lime juice will make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your dish.
- Grill for Extra Flavor: If possible, use a charcoal grill for that smoky, charred flavor. If you’re using a grill pan, make sure it’s well-heated to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, which allows the flavors to intensify and makes the grilling process quicker when you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion:
Chicken Sate with Peanut Seasoning is a vibrant, savory dish that offers the perfect combination of tender chicken and rich, creamy peanut sauce. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this flavorful treat and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
ADVERTISEMENT
