Savory Chicken Satay Skewers

Name: Savory Chicken Satay Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional); Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes

These Savory Chicken Satay Skewers are a delightful blend of juicy chicken marinated in fragrant spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy peanut sauce.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-04T08:06:29.052Z

Chicken satay is a popular dish in Southeast Asia, known for its unique combination of spices and irresistible peanut sauce. This recipe brings the authentic taste of satay right to your kitchen, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken infused with aromatic spices
Creamy peanut sauce that adds richness
Perfect for grilling season or any gathering

      

The Perfect Marination

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in creating flavorful satay skewers. The combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and delicious. By allowing the chicken to soak in these aromatic spices for at least 30 minutes, you're infusing it with flavors that will shine through once grilled.

For best results, consider marinating the chicken strips overnight. This extended marination time allows the spices to penetrate deeper, resulting in a richer flavor. Remember to keep the marinated chicken refrigerated until you're ready to skewer and grill, as this helps maintain its freshness and quality.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling is an art, and achieving the perfect char on your chicken satay skewers requires attention. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a delicious golden crust. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.

While grilling, resist the urge to constantly flip the skewers. Allowing them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and a smoky flavor. Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions

These savory chicken satay skewers are not only great as appetizers but can also be served as a main dish. Pair them with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad to create a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. The creamy peanut sauce is a perfect accompaniment, adding a rich and nutty flavor that complements the spices in the chicken.

For gatherings, consider creating a satay platter with a variety of dipping sauces and side dishes. This not only enhances the presentation but also allows guests to explore different flavors. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich peanut sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into strips
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, minced

For the Peanut Sauce

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for best results.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, coriander, cumin, garlic powder, and minced ginger. Add the chicken strips and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and chili paste until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more coconut milk if desired.

Skewer the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

Grill the Skewers

Grill the chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Serve

Serve the chicken satay skewers hot with the peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious chicken satay skewers as an appetizer or main dish!

Variations and Additions

While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily adapt it to include other proteins such as beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will bring its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

Adding vegetables to the skewers can enhance both the nutrition and presentation. Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions can be threaded onto the same skewer as the chicken, providing colorful and delicious bites that complement the savory flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken satay skewers and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days when properly stored. To reheat, simply warm the skewers on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

The peanut sauce can also be kept for an extended period. If it thickens in the fridge, just stir in a little coconut milk or water to achieve your desired consistency before using it again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

→ Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the peanut sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I serve with chicken satay?

Chicken satay is great with rice, salad, or fresh vegetables.