Satay Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce are one of the most iconic Southeast Asian dishes, beloved for their smoky char, tender marinated chicken, and creamy, intensely flavorful peanut dipping sauce. This recipe delivers that same restaurant-quality experience right at home. Every bite offers a combination of savory, sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors, making it irresistible for both casual meals and impressive gatherings.

In this recipe, thin strips of chicken are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, coconut milk, and aromatics, then grilled to perfection. The skewers are served with a silky peanut sauce that beautifully complements the meat. Whether you’re a longtime fan of satay or trying it for the first time, this recipe is approachable, customizable, and packed with flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with depth and tenderness, while grilling gives it that slightly smoky, caramelized exterior. The peanut sauce is rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, making every bite feel special. It’s an ideal dish for entertaining, meal prepping, or simply elevating a weeknight dinner.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility—you can adjust the spices, sweetness, or heat based on preference, and it pairs beautifully with rice, noodle bowls, salads, or even wraps. The aromas alone make the cooking process delightful.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines simple ingredients with bold results. It introduces a blend of Southeast Asian flavors that are both comforting and exciting. The recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced cooks who want to showcase something vibrant and flavorful. The peanut sauce alone is so addictive you’ll want to use it for other dishes too.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Marinating time: 1–4 hours (recommended)
• Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (approx., including marination)

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving (including peanut sauce)

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Appetizer / Main Course
• Cuisine: Indonesian / Thai / Southeast Asian

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

• 500 g chicken breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Peanut Sauce

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 teaspoon sriracha
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• Warm water as needed (to adjust consistency)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, turmeric, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken strips and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes to avoid burning.
4. Thread marinated chicken strips onto skewers.
5. Preheat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or air fryer.
6. Grill skewers for 6–8 minutes on each side until cooked through and lightly charred.
7. For the peanut sauce, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, sweetener, lime juice, garlic, and chili in a bowl. Stir until smooth, adding warm water to thin if needed.
8. Serve skewers hot with peanut sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, turmeric, garlic paste, ginger paste, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add sliced chicken to the marinade. Coat fully, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Thread the chicken strips onto each skewer, spreading them evenly.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill or pan over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil. Cook the skewers for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, sweetener, garlic paste, chili flakes or sriracha, and lime juice. Mix until smooth, adding warm water to reach a dipping sauce consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the skewers with fresh herbs and lime wedges, accompanied by a generous bowl of peanut sauce.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or rice noodles.
• Pair with sliced cucumbers, pickled vegetables, or a simple Asian salad.
• Top with crushed peanuts, cilantro, or green onions for added texture.
• Use inside lettuce wraps for a light, fresh meal.
• Add extra lime wedges for freshness.

Recipe Tips

• Slice chicken thinly for quicker marination and even cooking.
• Don’t skip turmeric—it gives the dish its signature golden color.
• Add more chili for a spicier version.
• For extra char, cook skewers on a barbecue grill.
• If sauce becomes too thick after chilling, stir in warm water.

Variations

• Spicy Satay: Add extra chili paste to both marinade and sauce.
• Sweet Satay: Increase brown sugar for a sweeter profile.
• Beef Satay: Replace chicken with beef strips.
• Vegetarian Satay: Use tofu strips or grilled vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Air Fryer Satay: Cook at 190°C for 10–12 minutes.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Peanut Sauce Storage: Refrigerate for 5–7 days.
• Freezing Chicken: Marinated uncooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Freezing Cooked Skewers: Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat gently in oven or air fryer.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill pan, barbecue grill, or air fryer
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, thighs stay juicier and are often more flavorful.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes. Bake at 200°C for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely; just refrigerate and stir in warm water before serving.

Is the recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and confirm peanut butter ingredients.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes—add more or less chili to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Satay Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce are an irresistible combination of tender, marinated chicken and rich, flavorful dipping sauce. This recipe delivers vibrant Southeast Asian flavors with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings bold taste and beautiful presentation to your table every time. Enjoy the balance of smoky, savory, creamy, and spicy notes that make satay a timeless favorite.