Air Fryer Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
If you've ever wondered how to make a restaurant-quality chicken satay with peanut sauce right in your kitchen, this is your moment. Crispy, juicy, and irresistibly flavorful—this air fryer chicken satay with peanut sauce is not only simple to make but also bursting with exotic flavor. Whether you're planning a party or just craving a quick fix, this recipe satisfies both health goals and taste buds.
A Glimpse into History
The origins of chicken satay with peanut sauce are rich and multicultural. While Indonesian chicken satay with peanut sauce is the most well-known, variations exist across Thailand, Malaysia, and even Singapore. Traditionally grilled over open flames, satay has evolved through modern cooking methods—and now, the air fryer offers a faster, healthier option without sacrificing that beloved smoky flavor.
What Is the Recipe?
This recipe for chicken satay with peanut sauce brings together perfectly marinated chicken skewers and a creamy, nutty Thai-style sauce. Using the air fryer creates a golden, crispy texture while retaining juiciness inside. It’s an easy chicken satay with peanut sauce recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s healthier thanks to air frying (yes, even low carb chicken satay with peanut sauce lovers rejoice!).
- The Thai chicken satay with peanut sauce flavors are hypnotic—rich, spicy, sweet, and savory.
- It takes less than 30 minutes.
- The aroma? It’ll have everyone running to the kitchen.
Taste and Texture
The chicken is tender and infused with ginger, garlic, and lemongrass—while the peanut sauce adds creaminess, spice, and a slightly sweet kick. Together, they create a dance of texture and flavor in every bite.
Personal Experience
I still remember the first time I tried Malaysian chicken satay with peanut sauce during a night market visit. The bold, smoky flavors stuck with me. Recreating this in an air fryer was a game-changer—same flavor, less oil, and lightning-fast cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air Fryer
- Skewers (bamboo or metal)
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan (for sauce)
- Tongs
Total Time Required
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour (optional but recommended)
- Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
- Total time: ~30 minutes (excluding marinating)
Ingredients for Chicken Satay
- For Chicken Satay:
- 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into strips)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Juice of ½ lime
For Peanut Sauce:
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp red curry paste (or sriracha for heat)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- ½ cup coconut milk
- Water to thin (as needed)
How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, turmeric, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and coriander. Coat the chicken strips, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 3–5 minutes.
3. Skewer the Chicken
- Thread the chicken onto skewers and lightly spray with oil.
4. Air Fry to Perfection
- Place skewers in the basket. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Make the Peanut Sauce
- While the chicken cooks, combine all sauce ingredients in a pan over low heat. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this flavorful grilled chicken satay with peanut sauce with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Cucumber salad (for freshness)
- Lime wedges and chopped peanuts
- A drizzle of leftover sauce over everything!
Pro Tips
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before use to avoid burning.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Variations to Try
- BBQ chicken satay with peanut sauce: Swap the air fryer for the grill during summer cookouts.
- Cooking Light chicken satay with peanut sauce: Use light coconut milk and skip the sugar.
- Vegan twist: Use tofu instead of chicken, and tamari in place of fish sauce.
FAQs
Q: How to make chicken satay with peanut sauce low-carb?
Use low-carb peanut butter, skip sugar, and serve with lettuce wraps or grilled veggies.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and skewer the chicken a day in advance. Peanut sauce keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Q: What’s the difference between Thai and Indonesian satay?
Thai versions are often spicier and use red curry in the sauce, while Indonesian satay tends to be sweeter.
Q: Where can I find this recipe online?
You can find variations on chicken satay with peanut sauce Allrecipes, but this version is air fryer specific and optimized for ease and health.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to global appetizers, air fryer chicken satay with peanut sauce stands at the top. It’s quick, healthy, packed with flavor, and utterly addictive. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just spicing up your weeknight dinner, this recipe will never disappoint. Your taste buds deserve this journey!
Nutrition Chart (Per Serving)
- Calories 320 kcal
- Protein 28g
- Fat 18g
- Carbohydrates 10g
- Fiber 2g
- Sugar 5g
- Sodium 450mg
> Note: Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands and portions used.
