Malaysian Satay Chicken – Marinated with Peanut Sauce

Malaysian Satay Chicken is a delicious, smoky dish that features marinated chicken skewers, grilled to perfection, and coated in a rich, savory peanut sauce. This popular street food from Malaysia is perfect for BBQs or a cozy dinner. With a balance of sweet, salty, and slightly spicy flavors, Satay Chicken is sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marination time)
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 1 hour marination)
• Number of Servings: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 2 skewers per person with rice or vegetables

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soy sauce), Dairy-Free

Ingredients List

• 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass, finely chopped (optional but adds great flavor)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sambal oelek (adjust for spice level)
• 1/4 cup warm water (adjust for consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Pinch of salt

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili paste, garlic powder, ground coriander, and a pinch of salt. Add warm water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more lime juice, soy sauce, or chili paste to suit your preference.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure they are evenly spaced.
4. Grill the Satay Chicken: Preheat a grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F).
5. Serve with Peanut Sauce: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter and drizzle with the peanut sauce. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced cucumbers, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with a side of jasmine rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, marinate it overnight.
• Grilling Tips: To avoid dry chicken, do not overcook the skewers. If using boneless chicken, be sure to check the internal temperature for a juicy, tender result.
• Peanut Sauce Variations: For extra depth of flavor, add a little coconut milk to the peanut sauce. You can also adjust the sweetness and spiciness by adding more sugar or chili paste.
• Serving Ideas: Satay Chicken pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a great choice for Satay Chicken as they stay juicier during grilling. Just be sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces.

Q: Can I make Satay Chicken in the oven?
A: Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken on a baking sheet at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

Q: How do I make the peanut sauce spicier?
A: If you prefer a spicier peanut sauce, add more chili paste or sambal oelek, or mix in some finely chopped fresh red chilies.

Q: Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the peanut sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Warm it up slightly before serving for the best flavor and consistency.

With Malaysian Satay Chicken, you can bring the bold, savory flavors of Southeast Asia right into your home. Marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and grilled to perfection, this dish is elevated with the rich, creamy peanut sauce. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a weeknight dinner, Satay Chicken is a satisfying and delicious choice that will leave everyone wanting more.