Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to smoky perfection, served with a creamy, savory peanut sauce that balances sweet and spicy flavors. This thai-inspired chicken ready in about 85 minutes blends coconut milk, red curry paste, brown sugar into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 70 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Thai cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup coconut milk, 2 tbsp red curry paste, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp turmeric powder until smooth. Add 1 lb thinly sliced chicken breast strips, toss to coat, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the marinated chicken strips onto 8 soaked wooden skewers, distributing evenly.
  3. Step 3: Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred on edges, flipping carefully.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup peanut butter, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Step 5: Serve the grilled chicken satay skewers warm, with peanut dipping sauce on the side, garnished with 2 tbsp crushed peanuts.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 85 minutes (70 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce?

Thai chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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