Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Name: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Chopped green onions; Chopped peanuts; Fresh cilantro

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken recipe combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy peanut butter sauce, spiced to perfection.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:10:27.609Z

This dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The heat from the spices pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut butter, creating a dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on classic chicken dishes
Creamy and spicy flavor combination that excites the palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

A Flavorful Fusion

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a unique twist to a classic chicken dish. The rich and creamy peanut butter sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a meal that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, combining the nuttiness of peanut butter with the heat of sriracha and the umami of soy sauce. It's a dish that will leave you craving more.

Moreover, the addition of garlic and ginger in the peanut sauce elevates the flavor profile, adding depth and warmth to the dish. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also offers a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is its simplicity. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can easily whip this up after a long day. The use of pantry staples like peanut butter and soy sauce means you can make this dish without a lengthy shopping list.

Cooking the chicken in a single skillet not only saves on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can feel confident in their culinary skills. This recipe is a perfect example of how quick meals can also be delicious and satisfying.

Customization Options

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there's plenty of room for customization to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or opt for a different hot sauce that you enjoy. Additionally, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the pan for a colorful and nutritious boost. These additions not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also increase its health benefits.

For those following a gluten-free diet, using tamari instead of soy sauce can easily accommodate your needs without compromising flavor. You can also experiment with different garnishes, such as sesame seeds or lime wedges, to add an extra layer of flavor and presentation. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own while still enjoying the delicious core flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Peanut Sauce

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

For Garnish

Chopped green onions
Chopped peanuts
Fresh cilantro

Mix and match your favorite garnishes for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, pour the peanut sauce over it, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and coat the chicken.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions, peanuts, and cilantro. Serve warm over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken!

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serving it over a bed of rice, whether white, brown, or jasmine, helps soak up the rich peanut sauce, making each bite a delight. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of fresh greens or spiralized vegetables for a refreshing and healthy meal.

If you're looking to elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a crisp cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli. The freshness of the salad will balance the richness of the peanut sauce, creating a harmonious meal that feels complete and satisfying.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors of the peanut sauce intensify as it sits, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, than the original dish. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken with the peanut sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option, ensuring you have a quick and satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Nutritional Benefits

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The peanut butter in the sauce provides healthy fats and protein, making it a filling addition to your meal.

Furthermore, the ingredients in the peanut sauce, such as garlic and ginger, are known for their health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support. By incorporating this dish into your weekly meal rotation, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that supports overall health and well-being.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and provide a juicier texture.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the peanut sauce?

Yes, the peanut sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.