Classic Chicken Satay
A fragrant and flavour-packed chicken satay, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy peanut sauce. This dish is perfect for a BBQ or a casual family dinner!
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 30 minutes marinating)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Satay:
- 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 8 bamboo skewers, soaked in water
For the Peanut Sauce:
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of ½ a lime
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon chilli flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Additions:
- A sprinkle of crushed peanuts for garnish
- Fresh coriander leaves, for extra freshness
- A squeeze of lime juice for added zing
Method:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, brown sugar, olive oil, and coconut milk.
- Add the chicken pieces, toss to coat evenly, then cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavour).
Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, fish sauce, coconut milk, garlic, lime juice, and brown sugar.
- Stir continuously until smooth and heated through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it. Set aside.
Grill the Chicken:
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
- Heat a BBQ or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
Serve:
- Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle with peanut sauce.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts, fresh coriander, and lime wedges if desired.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or warm roti for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For a smoky, authentic flavour, cook the skewers over charcoal.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Make a double batch of peanut sauce—it’s great for dipping veggies or drizzling over salads!