Thai Chicken Satay

Thai Chicken Satay Recipe - Authentic Southeast Asian Cuisine

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Thai Chicken Satay is a popular dish that features tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The combination of savory peanut sauce and aromatic spices makes this dish a favorite among many.

History

Chicken Satay is believed to have originated in Indonesia, where it was traditionally made with skewered and grilled meat. Over time, the dish spread to other Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, where it became a staple in Thai cuisine.

Ingredients

2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
0.5 cup soy sauce
0.5 cup lemon or lime juice
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp curry powder
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp hot pepper sauce
6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cubed

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, curry powder, garlic, and hot pepper sauce.
Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat a grill to high heat.
Weave the chicken onto skewers, then grill for 5 minutes per side.

Variations

Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a seafood or vegetarian option.
Add chopped peanuts or cilantro for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Grill the chicken over high heat for a nice charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Thai Chicken Satay is best served with a side of steamed rice, cucumber salad, and a drizzle of extra peanut sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the traditional method for cooking Thai Chicken Satay, but you can also bake or pan-fry the skewers for a different texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter.

- Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Thai Chicken Satay on a platter with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and extra peanut sauce for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Thai Chicken Satay pairs well with a cold beer, a crisp white wine, or a refreshing Thai iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Thai Chicken Satay can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Thai Chicken Satay contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Thai Chicken Satay contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Thai Chicken Satay contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Thai Chicken Satay contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Thai Chicken Satay is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

Thai Chicken Satay contains peanuts and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Thai Chicken Satay is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of proteins and healthy fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Thai Chicken Satay is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this classic Thai dish in the comfort of your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory. It was a warm summer day, the kind that makes you crave something fresh and flavorful. I was visiting a bustling market in Bangkok, surrounded by the vibrant sights and sounds of Thailand. As I wandered through the stalls, my eyes were drawn to a small food cart where a friendly Thai woman was grilling skewers of marinated chicken. The aroma wafting from her grill was intoxicating, and I knew I had to try it.

I approached the cart and ordered a couple of skewers of the chicken satay. As I took my first bite, I was instantly transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The chicken was tender and juicy, marinated in a blend of lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk. The peanut dipping sauce was rich and creamy, with just the right amount of heat. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I struck up a conversation with the woman behind the cart, eager to learn the secrets of her delicious dish. She smiled kindly and offered to teach me her recipe. We spent the rest of the afternoon together, as she showed me how to marinate the chicken, mix the dipping sauce, and grill the skewers to perfection. I took notes diligently, eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece in my own kitchen.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in testing out the recipe. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - chicken thighs, lemongrass, ginger, coconut milk, and peanuts - and got to work. As I chopped, mixed, and grilled, the familiar scents of Thailand filled my kitchen. I couldn't help but smile as I tasted the first bite of my homemade chicken satay. It was just as delicious as I remembered, a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for Thai chicken satay, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its complexity and depth of flavor. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that bustling market in Bangkok, where I first discovered this culinary gem.

I have since learned that the key to a great chicken satay lies in the marinade. The combination of lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk infuses the chicken with a richness that is truly unmatched. The peanut dipping sauce adds a creamy, nutty finish that balances out the heat of the spices. It is a dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of Thailand.

I have also come to appreciate the cultural significance of this dish. In Thailand, chicken satay is often served as street food, a quick and delicious snack that can be enjoyed on the go. It is a dish that brings people together, creating a sense of community and connection. Every time I make it, I am reminded of the kind woman who shared her recipe with me, and the bonds that food can create between people.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Thai chicken satay, I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It is a dish that not only satisfies my hunger, but also nourishes my soul. In each bite, I taste the flavors of Thailand, the memories of that bustling market, and the warmth of a shared meal. And for that, I am truly thankful.