Thai Peanut Chicken Breast Recipe

A few years ago, I wanted to try something different for dinner, something with bold flavors that wasn’t complicated to make. I had some peanut butter in the pantry and a pack of chicken breasts in the fridge. That’s when I remembered a peanut sauce dish I once had at a Thai restaurant and decided to recreate it at home.

This Thai peanut chicken breast recipe has become one of my family’s favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and full of that signature sweet-and-savory flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without too much effort.

Servings	Total
4	30mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first got the idea for this recipe after trying Thai food for the first time. The peanut sauce was so delicious that I couldn’t stop thinking about it. After some experimenting in my kitchen, I came up with this version that’s simple and uses ingredients I usually have on hand.

Why Peanut Chicken Breast

Peanut chicken breast is a fantastic dish because it’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and feels like a restaurant-quality meal. The creamy peanut sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, and it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, noodles, or veggies.

What Is Peanut Chicken Breast Made Of?

This dish uses a mix of fresh and pantry ingredients:

• Chicken breasts
• Peanut butter (creamy or natural)
• Soy sauce
• Coconut milk or water
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Lime juice
• Honey or brown sugar
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

What to Have with Peanut Chicken Breast

Here are some great sides to serve with peanut chicken breast:

• Steamed rice: White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice soak up the peanut sauce beautifully.
• Noodles: Rice noodles or even spaghetti work well.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas add a fresh, crunchy element.
• Salad: A crisp cucumber salad with a light dressing complements the rich peanut sauce.

Is Peanut Chicken Breast Healthy?

This dish can be healthy, especially if you use natural peanut butter and control the amount of sweeteners and oils. Chicken breast is a lean protein, and you can add plenty of vegetables to the dish to make it more balanced.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ cup coconut milk (or water)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Sear the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Peanut Sauce:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, garlic, ginger, lime juice, honey, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
4. Cook the Sauce:
   • Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and let them simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   • Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Tips

• For a thicker sauce, simmer it longer or add a little more peanut butter.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and are often juicier. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them when reheating.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Thai peanut chicken breast is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy, rich sauce combined with tender chicken is always a hit at the dinner table. Pair it with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple and delicious it is!

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