Name: Peanut Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 scotch bonnet pepper or 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: Smooth peanut butter blended with coconut milk.
Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together quickly.
Flavorful and Balanced: Sweet, savory, and mildly spicy.
Easy to Make: One-pot cooking with minimal prep.
Versatile Serving: Great with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon lime juice
1-2 teaspoons chili sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for garnish

Directions

Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Make Sauce: Lower heat to medium and stir in peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, chili sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth and combined.
Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken sauce and meld flavors.
Season: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Crunchy Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
Spice Level: Increase chili sauce or add fresh chilies.
Peanut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter as a substitute.
Noodle Bowls: Serve with rice noodles and fresh herbs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use peanut butter powder?

Yes, rehydrate peanut butter powder with water before using.

Is this dish spicy?

Mild by default; adjust chili sauce to taste.

Can I use peanut butter with added sugar?

Yes, but reduce added sweetener in recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

What side dishes pair well?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, it reheats well and flavors deepen overnight.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier.

How do I prevent sauce from separating?

Stir continuously and avoid high heat once coconut milk is added.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Chicken is a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that blends creamy peanut sauce with tender chicken for a delicious meal. Its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes makes it a favorite for family dinners or weeknight cooking, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.