If you’re searching for the best chicken satay recipe, you’re in the right place. Juicy marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, rich peanut dipping sauce—this Southeast Asian classic is now a favorite in U.S. kitchens. Whether you’re making it for dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a party appetizer, this authentic chicken satay recipe is simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress.
What Is Chicken Satay?
Chicken Satay is a popular dish that originated in Indonesia and spread across Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand and Malaysia. Traditionally, it’s made with marinated skewered meat grilled over charcoal and served with peanut sauce. In the U.S., chicken is the most popular version because it’s affordable, easy to find, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Satay Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs (or breast), cut into strips
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1 tbsp curry powder or turmeric
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Peanut Sauce
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red curry paste (or chili garlic sauce)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ cup coconut milk
- Warm water (to thin, if needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Add chicken strips, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
2. Make the Peanut Sauce
- In a saucepan, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, red curry paste, lime juice, and coconut milk.
- Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add warm water as needed to adjust thickness.
3. Grill the Skewers
- Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Cook skewers 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Arrange skewers on a platter, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts.
- Serve hot with peanut sauce, jasmine rice, or cucumber salad.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Satay
- Use chicken thighs for juicier satay.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor (overnight works wonders).
- Grill over charcoal for that smoky, authentic taste.
What to Serve with Chicken Satay
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Fresh cucumber salad with vinegar dressing
- Thai slaw or grilled vegetables
- For dessert: mango sticky rice or fresh tropical fruit
