Description
This Easy Slow Cooker Satay Chicken recipe combines tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich and creamy peanut satay sauce made with coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, and lime juice. Perfectly cooked in the slow cooker for hands-off convenience, then optionally broiled to achieve a caramelized finish. Serve with extra sauce for dipping and garnished with fresh cilantro, lime slices, and peanuts for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or boneless skinless breasts)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Satay Sauce
- ⅓ cup peanut butter
- ⅓ cup canned coconut milk
- 1-2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
Garnish (optional)
- Cilantro
- Fresh lime slices
- Peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to a 6-quart slow cooker and sprinkle them evenly with kosher salt to season.
- Make the satay sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, light brown sugar, fresh lime juice, and fish sauce until the mixture is very smooth and well combined.
- Coat and cook: Pour one-third of the satay sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat all pieces. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 2 to 3 hours or on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender but still holding its shape.
- Drain and recoat: Once cooked, uncover the slow cooker and carefully drain any excess cooking liquid. Pour half of the remaining satay sauce over the chicken and toss it gently to coat thoroughly.
- Optional broiling step: For a caramelized finish, place the coated chicken on a broiler-safe pan or baking sheet. Broil under high heat for 3 to 5 minutes until browned, then flip the chicken pieces and broil for another 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning since the sugar in the sauce browns quickly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken with the remaining satay sauce on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime slices, and peanuts if desired for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for more tender and juicy results, but chicken breasts can be substituted.
- The broiling step is optional but adds a nice caramelized texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Thai red curry paste to your preferred spice level; start with 1 tablespoon for mild heat, add up to 2 tablespoons for more spice.
- Make sure to monitor the chicken closely while broiling to avoid burning due to sugar caramelization.
- Leftover satay sauce makes a great dipping sauce or marinade for other dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Thai