Name: Chicken Satay Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized strips; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp curry powder; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Wooden skewers, soaked in water; 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy); 1/2 cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce); 1 tbsp lime juice (for sauce); 1 tbsp brown sugar (for sauce); 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for sauce)

Chicken satay skewers are a classic Southeast Asian dish featuring marinated, grilled chicken served with a flavorful peanut sauce. The skewers are known for their vibrant blend of spices, tender texture, and aromatic grilled finish, making them a favorite in street food culture and home kitchens alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken satay skewers offer an irresistible combination of bold flavors and juicy, char-grilled meat. The marinade infuses the chicken with notes of garlic, ginger, and curry, while the creamy peanut dipping sauce provides a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. They’re ideal for entertaining guests, quick weeknight dinners, or even meal prep, as they reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Coconut milk
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Curry powder
Ground turmeric
Salt
Bamboo skewers (soaked in water)

For the peanut sauce:

Creamy peanut butter
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Fresh lime juice
Garlic
Coconut milk
Chili flakes or Sriracha (optional, for heat)

Directions

Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine coconut milk, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Prepare the skewers: Soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Make the peanut sauce: In a small saucepan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, coconut milk, and chili flakes (if using). Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth and heated through.
Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve with the warm peanut sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor)
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

Protein substitution: You can use beef, tofu, or shrimp instead of chicken for a different take on the satay.
Nut-free option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for those with nut allergies.
Oven-baked: If a grill isn’t available, bake the skewers in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Extra spicy: Add chopped Thai chili or increase the chili flakes in the sauce for added heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce in a separate container.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken skewers in a microwave or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if it thickens too much.

FAQs

How long should I marinate chicken for satay?

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is recommended for maximum tenderness and taste.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful when grilled.

Can I freeze chicken satay?

Yes, marinated uncooked chicken skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling. Cooked skewers can also be frozen and reheated as needed.

Is chicken satay gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in both the marinade and the peanut sauce.

Can I prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The peanut sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best way to prevent skewers from burning?

Soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning on the grill.

Can I make this dish without a grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the skewers in the oven.

What sides go well with chicken satay?

Serve chicken satay with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or rice noodles for a complete meal.

How do I thin out thick peanut sauce?

Add a small amount of warm water or coconut milk to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The sauce can be mild or spicy depending on how much chili or hot sauce you add. It’s customizable to your preference.

Conclusion

Chicken satay skewers are a flavorful, versatile dish that brings the essence of Southeast Asian street food right into your kitchen. With a rich marinade and a creamy, savory peanut sauce, this recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a satisfying homemade meal. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the layers of bold, aromatic flavor.

Chicken Satay Skewers