Chef Mitchell preparing Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken recipe during my travels in Thailand. The blend of flavors and the ease of preparation captivated me. Over the years, I perfected this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Thai cuisine to home cooks everywhere. It's a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I've developed a passion for Thai cuisine. My journey began in culinary school, where I learned the intricacies of flavor balance and ingredient quality. I specialize in creating easy dinner recipes that bring the vibrant tastes of Thailand to your table.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken served on a plate

Why This Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken Recipe Works

This Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken recipe is special because it marries the creamy richness of peanut butter with the tender juiciness of slow-cooked chicken. The slow cooker ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.

The technique of slow cooking not only makes the chicken tender but also allows the ingredients to infuse their flavors into one another. By cooking on low heat for several hours, the dish develops depth and complexity, ensuring that every bite is bursting with deliciousness. This method also makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks itself.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality peanut butter that contains only peanuts and salt. This will enhance the flavor of the sauce and ensure it has a smooth texture. Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before. Just refrigerate the slow cooker insert and set it to cook in the morning. This allows for a hassle-free meal when you return home from a busy day.

If you have allergies or prefer not to use peanut butter, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the dish.

The chicken is done when it is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. Also, the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety. Cooking it on low for the full time will usually ensure perfect results.

Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious peanut sauce. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and color. A fresh cucumber salad also complements the richness of the chicken.

Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator before cooking. Just ensure you let it sit in the fridge for no more than 24 hours to keep the ingredients fresh. Simply pop it into the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

The best way to reheat Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken is to warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to thin the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken is too dry, it may have cooked for too long or at too high a temperature.

Solution: To prevent dryness in the future, ensure to monitor the cooking time closely and adjust the heat setting as needed. Adding a little more sauce can also keep the chicken moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Slow cooked dishes typically do not achieve a crispy texture.

Solution: For a crispy finish, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes after cooking, watching closely to avoid burning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and rubbery.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, set a timer and check the internal temperature regularly. Cooking on low is often safer for maintaining tenderness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it may not reach safe temperatures.

Recovery: Ensure even cooking by arranging chicken pieces in a single layer and avoiding overcrowding the slow cooker. If undercooked, simply return it to the cooker until fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the chicken may burn if cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: To avoid a burnt exterior, ensure you are using the correct slow cooker setting and avoid cooking for an extended time. Stirring the dish occasionally can also help.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or vinegar to cut the sweetness.

Too Salty: If too salty, add more coconut milk or a bit of sugar to balance the flavors.

Bland: If it’s bland, add more seasonings like soy sauce or extra ginger to enhance the flavors.

Fresh ingredients for Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken

The key ingredients in this Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken include chicken, peanut butter, and a variety of vegetables. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The chicken becomes tender and absorbs the rich peanut sauce, while the vegetables add freshness and color.

Using high-quality peanut butter is crucial for achieving a creamy and flavorful sauce. Fresh vegetables enhance the dish, bringing nutrients and a pop of color. Make sure to select ripe and vibrant ingredients for the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Always choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Bone-in thighs work well for slow cooking as they remain juicy and tender. If using boneless chicken, ensure it's cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter with minimal additives. This will ensure a smooth texture and rich flavor in your sauce. Stir well before measuring to mix the oil that may have separated.
  • Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy sauce that complements the peanut butter beautifully. Light coconut milk can be used but may result in a thinner sauce. Shake the can well before opening to mix the cream.
Cooking process for Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken involves simple steps that yield delicious results. Start by preparing the sauce and combining it with chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. This hands-off cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.

To achieve the perfect results, ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed in the slow cooker. Stirring occasionally during cooking can help prevent any burning on the edges and ensure even cooking throughout. The end result is a dish that’s both comforting and rich in flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken

The key technique for perfect Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken is to allow it to cook low and slow. This method not only tenderizes the chicken but also allows the flavors to develop fully. Setting it on low heat for an extended period results in juicy, flavorful chicken that absorbs the rich peanut sauce.

Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
    Smooth or crunchy
  • 1 cup coconut milk
    Full-fat for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low-sodium if preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 inch ginger
    Grated
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    Freshly squeezed

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
    For garnish
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
    For garnish
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
    For texture
  • 1 bell pepper
    Sliced
  • Salt
    To taste
  • Pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Begin by cutting the chicken into pieces and chopping all vegetables. Set aside.

  2. Make Sauce

    In a bowl, mix peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and red pepper flakes until smooth.

  3. Combine Ingredients

    Place chicken pieces in the slow cooker, followed by the chopped vegetables.

  4. Add Sauce

    Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat evenly.

  5. Cook

    Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken is cooked through.

  6. Garnish

    Before serving, stir in cilantro and green onions. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

  7. Serve

    Serve the slow cooked peanut chicken over rice and enjoy!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooked Peanut Chicken is best served over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa. You can also pair it with a fresh cucumber salad or stir-fried vegetables to complement the richness of the dish.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option.