If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with rich, creamy flavors and just the right hint of spice, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. It transforms simple chicken thighs into a comforting, soul-satisfying meal where natural peanut butter meets fragrant spices and a savory tomato-based sauce, all coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe promises both ease and a knockout flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine white bowls and cups arranged over a white marbled surface. The largest bowl on the left holds raw light pink chicken pieces. Next to it are small bowls containing finely grated yellow zest, a mix of brown and orange spices, creamy light brown peanut butter, bright red crushed tomatoes, dark thick soy sauce, light yellow juice, a small bowl with amber liquid, and another small bowl with a bit of golden honey. All containers are neatly placed, each with a distinct color and texture visible inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe is straightforward, and each one plays an essential role in creating its delicious, layered flavor and pleasing texture. From the tender chicken thighs to the combination of spices and sauces, every element adds something special to the dish.

8 Chicken Thighs, boneless, skinless: Perfectly tender and juicy, they soak up the flavors wonderfully.
3 Tablespoons Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds a subtle saltiness and deepumami base for the chicken marinade.
1 Tablespoon Canola Oil, or olive oil: Ideal for browning the chicken to golden perfection.
3 Cloves Garlic, finely minced: Infuses a bright, aromatic punch to the sauce.
2 teaspoons Fresh Ginger, grated: Brings a warming, slightly spicy zing to the mix.
1/2 Cup Natural Peanut Butter: The star ingredient delivering creamy, nutty richness.
1 ½ Tablespoons Hoisin Sauce: Adds sweetness and depth that balances the peanut butter.
15 Ounce Can Crushed Tomatoes: Creates a tangy, flavorful body for the sauce.
1 Cup Chicken Stock: Enhances the savory background and keeps the sauce luscious.
1/4 teaspoon Sesame Oil: A few drops bring a subtle toasty fragrance.
1 Tablespoon Honey: Provides natural sweetness to round out the flavors.
2 teaspoons White Vinegar: Adds a touch of brightness and balance.
1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Offers an earthy warmth that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
1 teaspoon Ground Coriander: Adds a gentle citrusy note.
Pinch Red Pepper Flakes: Gives just enough heat to keep things exciting.
Cilantro, minced: Freshness that brightens the final dish.
Peanuts, chopped: For a satisfying crunch and extra peanut flavor.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces to ensure easy cooking and serving. Toss them in a large bowl with the low sodium soy sauce, coating each piece evenly. This simple marinade is where the magic begins, tenderizing the chicken and layering in that subtle umami flavor. Set this aside while you prepare the sauce—the flavors will mingle beautifully as you work.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Peanut Butter Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, hoisin sauce, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, sesame oil, honey, white vinegar, ground cumin, ground coriander, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything until smooth. This sauce is the heart of your Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe, offering creamy richness balanced by tangy, sweet, and spicy notes that will elevate your dish to unforgettable heights.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Heat the canola or olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer to allow them to brown nicely. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, giving you that golden, caramelized exterior that locks in juiciness. Flip the pieces and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side for even cooking.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let these cook for about one minute until fragrant. This short burst intensifies the flavor, adding vibrant aromatics that make the dish truly sing and awaken your senses.

Step 5: Simmer with the Peanut Butter Sauce

Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the chicken in the pan. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Let this simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly and cling to the chicken pieces. This step locks all the flavors together in a creamy, luxurious sauce that defines the Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white pot filled with a thick, rich red-brown sauce that has a smooth yet chunky texture. Inside the sauce, there are many pieces of cooked chicken in medium-sized chunks, coated and simmered well. Scattered on top are whole light tan peanuts and small bits of chopped green herbs, adding a fresh color contrast. A metal spoon with a long handle rests on the left side inside the pot, partially covered in the sauce. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a bowl of peanuts and some green leafy herbs visible at the top right edge of the image, partially blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly minced cilantro and chopped peanuts on top right before serving for a burst of color, fresh flavor, and delightful crunch. These garnishes add texture contrasts and brighten the dish, making each bite more exciting and visually inviting.

Side Dishes

This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant basmati rice, soaking up the creamy sauce like a dream. For a refreshing touch, serve alongside an Asian cucumber salad or lightly steamed greens to balance the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the chicken in small bowls topped with extra peanuts, cilantro, and thinly sliced scallions. You can also wrap it in lettuce leaves for a light, hand-held option that adds crunch and freshness—perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for quick and satisfying meals throughout the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, so if you want to keep it longer, store the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy that same great taste later on.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out. You might want to add a splash of chicken stock or water if the sauce seems too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used. Just be careful not to overcook them since they dry out quicker than thighs.

Is natural peanut butter important for the sauce?

Yes, natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils results in the best flavor and texture for this recipe. Its purity allows the savory and sweet components to shine perfectly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Make sure to check that your hoisin sauce is vegan-friendly.

How spicy is this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe?

The recipe has a gentle heat from the red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your preference. Feel free to add more or less depending on how much kick you want in your dish.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken to keep it tender?

Cooking the chicken thighs undisturbed in a hot pan allows them to develop a beautiful golden crust that locks in moisture. Turning them just once ensures even cooking without drying the meat out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe that marries creamy, nutty goodness with the warmth of spices and fresh aromatics. It’s straightforward to prepare yet delivers an impressive depth of flavor that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy making this delicious dish your new favorite—it might just become a kitchen staple you can’t live without.