Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken – Easy and Flavorful Dinner

There’s something undeniably magical about grilled chicken that’s been marinated in a creamy, flavorful peanut sauce. It smells like summer cookouts, tastes like something from your favorite Thai restaurant, and feels like a comforting, home-cooked treat all in one bite. If you’ve ever been intimidated by making a dish like this at home, I’m here to change your mind completely. This Thai-inspired grilled peanut chicken recipe is one of those go-to meals I always turn to when I want something impressive yet incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or serving guests on a relaxed weekend, this dish hits every note—rich, savory, slightly sweet, and just a little spicy.

What makes this dish truly special is the peanut sauce. It’s the star of the show, made with creamy peanut butter, full-fat coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and just a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. It coats the chicken in the most delicious way, seeping into every bite during the marinating process and caramelizing beautifully when grilled or broiled. The combination of the smoky grill flavor with the nutty, slightly tangy sauce is absolutely irresistible.

I first stumbled upon this style of peanut chicken during a summer vacation in Southeast Asia. I had it at a small food stall run by a sweet older woman who handed me a skewer of smoky grilled chicken dripping in peanut sauce. It was wrapped in banana leaf with a scoop of sticky rice on the side, and I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve been trying to recreate that perfect balance of flavors in my own kitchen. Over time, this recipe was born, and now it’s become a family favorite. It’s warm, comforting, and loaded with bold flavor, yet comes together with pantry staples and minimal effort.

So if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers big flavor without fuss, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this grilled peanut chicken, but let’s start with the most obvious—flavor. The sauce alone is worth making, with its silky texture and rich combination of nutty, savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes. The coconut milk adds creaminess and body, the peanut butter brings depth, and the garlic, ginger, and lime juice round it all out with bold aromatics and a little tang. It’s a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Another reason this dish is such a hit is its versatility. You can broil it in the oven, grill it outside on a barbecue, or even cook it on a grill pan indoors if the weather isn’t cooperating. It also works beautifully with chicken skewers or just simple chunks of chicken laid out on a rack. That means it’s adaptable to whatever you have available, which is a major win in any home cook’s book.

And let’s talk ease. Even though this recipe feels like something you’d order from a restaurant, it’s honestly so simple to make. The marinade comes together in minutes—just whisk everything in a bowl. Then you pour it over your chicken, let it sit, and pop it on the grill or under the broiler. There’s no complicated technique here, and the results are consistently delicious.

On top of that, it’s super family-friendly. Kids love the mild sweetness of the peanut sauce, and adults can dial up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or serving it with a spicy dipping sauce. It’s also a great meal prep option since the chicken can be marinated ahead of time and cooked in batches throughout the week.

In short, this recipe is easy, adaptable, and packed with bold, satisfying flavor. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a staple in my kitchen.

Health Benefits of this Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken

While this grilled peanut chicken is all about flavor and satisfaction, it also comes with a surprising number of nutritional benefits. For starters, chicken thighs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc. Even though thighs are a bit higher in fat than chicken breast, they’re also more flavorful and remain juicier during cooking, especially when grilled or broiled.

The creamy peanut sauce isn’t just delicious—it’s also full of healthy fats from the peanut butter and coconut milk. Natural peanut butter provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. It also contains a decent amount of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium. Just make sure to use a natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils.

Coconut milk, particularly the full-fat canned variety, brings healthy saturated fats called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to the table. These fats are easier for the body to digest and can even provide a quick source of energy. Plus, coconut milk is rich in antioxidants, iron, and manganese, which all contribute to immune support and metabolic function.

The garlic and ginger in the marinade aren’t just for flavor—they also have proven anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Garlic, in particular, has been studied for its cardiovascular benefits, while ginger may help with digestion and reducing inflammation.

Even the lime juice adds something valuable to this dish. Not only does it brighten the flavor and balance out the richness of the sauce, but it’s also a good source of vitamin C, which helps support your immune system and skin health.

When served with a side of vegetables or brown rice, this meal becomes a well-rounded, nutrient-dense plate that supports energy, satiety, and overall health. It proves that comfort food can also be good for you—without sacrificing any of the fun.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This dish is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to deliver a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect in terms of timing and nutritional value.

Preparation Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: Minimum 1 hour, up to 8 hours
Cooking time: 12 to 15 minutes (depending on your cooking method)
Total time (including minimum marinating): 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes 4 generous servings (about ½ pound of chicken per person)

Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 480
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 560mg

These values are estimates and will vary depending on your exact ingredients and portion sizes. However, even with the rich sauce, this dish remains balanced with a healthy distribution of protein and fats and only moderate carbohydrates, especially if you pair it with vegetables or a salad.

Ingredients List of this Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken

For this Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken recipe, you’ll need simple, everyday ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Each one plays a key role in building the flavor and texture of the dish, so let’s take a look at what you’ll need and why.

For the Chicken:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish because they stay juicy and tender when grilled. The fat content also pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut sauce.

For the Peanut Sauce / Marinade:
½ cup creamy peanut butter
Use a natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients. It creates a rich, nutty base for the sauce.
1 cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk (canned)
This provides the creamy texture and deep flavor that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Adds brightness and acidity to cut through the richness and balance the flavors.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or halal fish sauce if preferred)
Adds umami and saltiness to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
1½ tablespoons brown sugar
Just a touch of sweetness brings out the nuttiness of the peanut butter and softens the tang of the lime juice.
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Adds warmth and a subtle zing that enhances the Thai-inspired flavor profile.
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
Garlic brings depth and savory richness that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (add more to taste)
This adds just a touch of heat to balance the sweetness. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

All of these ingredients come together to form the most luxurious, flavorful marinade and sauce. Half of it is used to soak the chicken, and the other half is reserved for drizzling over the finished dish.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Getting this dish on the table is as simple as mixing, marinating, and cooking. Whether you prefer to broil or grill, both methods will yield juicy chicken with a perfectly caramelized exterior. Follow the steps below to ensure success every time.

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The sauce should be thick yet pourable and beautifully aromatic.
Set aside 1 cup of the sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate it. This will be used for serving later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your cut chicken thighs into a large bowl or baking dish. Pour the remaining peanut sauce over the chicken.
Use a spoon or your hands to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the sauce. Make sure every piece is well covered.
Cover the bowl or dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best flavor, marinate up to 8 hours.
If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will help infuse flavor into the chicken. Just don’t skip this step entirely.

Step 3: Optional – Skewer the Chicken
If you want a fun, presentation-friendly option, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
If you prefer not to use skewers, simply lay the chicken pieces in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and better caramelization.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken (Choose Your Method)

To Broil:
Preheat your broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heating element.
Place the skewers or chicken pieces on the rack and broil for 6 to 7 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the temperature to rise slightly to 165°F.

To Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high (375–450°F).
Place the skewers on the grill over indirect heat and close the lid.
Grill for about 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches 160°F internally.
Remove from the grill and rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Up next: how to serve this peanut chicken in the most delicious ways.

How to Serve this Thai Grilled Peanut Chicken

Serving this Thai-inspired grilled peanut chicken is just as fun as cooking it, because there are so many ways to present it. Whether you’re putting together a casual weeknight dinner or dressing it up for guests, this dish always feels special. The bold flavors in the chicken pair beautifully with a variety of sides, sauces, and textures, which makes it incredibly versatile on the plate.

One of the easiest and most traditional ways to serve it is with steamed jasmine rice. The soft, fragrant grains soak up that creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce and provide the perfect base for the juicy chicken. You can spoon the reserved sauce over the rice and chicken for extra flavor, or serve it on the side for dipping.

Another fantastic option is to serve the chicken with rice noodles or vermicelli. These light noodles add a lovely contrast to the richness of the sauce and create a dish that feels reminiscent of a Thai satay bowl. Add some thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil, and you’ve got yourself a colorful, fresh, and deeply satisfying meal.

For a lighter take, try building a salad bowl. Start with a base of mixed greens or shredded cabbage, then top with the grilled chicken, chopped peanuts, sliced red peppers, and a drizzle of the reserved peanut sauce. A few wedges of lime and a sprinkle of sesame seeds can make this salad feel restaurant-worthy.

If you’re looking for a fun family meal or serving kids, wrap the chicken in warm flatbreads or lettuce leaves with a bit of sauce and crunchy veggies. It’s hands-on, interactive, and perfect for a relaxed dinner at home.

You could even turn the leftovers into an incredible sandwich or wrap the next day. Just slice the chicken thin, toss with some sauce, and tuck it into a pita with lettuce and cucumbers. The options are practically endless, which is part of the joy of this dish.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to choosing the perfect pairings for grilled peanut chicken, you want to balance the richness of the sauce with bright, crisp, or refreshing elements. This keeps the meal feeling vibrant and satisfying without becoming too heavy. Below are several pairing ideas that complement the dish beautifully, no matter the occasion.

Starches and Grains
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is always a safe and delicious choice. Their slightly floral notes and soft texture work well with the creamy sauce.
Brown rice or quinoa add a little more nuttiness and texture, along with fiber and nutrients.
For something lighter, try cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage sautéed with a bit of garlic and sesame oil. These low-carb options still pair wonderfully with the sauce.
Rice noodles, vermicelli, or even soba noodles are great if you want to lean into the Asian flavor profile. Toss the noodles with lime juice, scallions, and a bit of sesame oil to bring it all together.

Vegetables and Salads
Light, crunchy veggies help cut through the richness of the sauce. Consider serving the chicken with:

• A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sugar
• Pickled red onions for a sharp contrast
• Steamed or roasted broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas
• A shredded cabbage slaw with lime vinaigrette
• Grilled zucchini or bell peppers for added char and flavor

Drinks and Beverages
Since this is a halal version, we’re keeping it alcohol-free, but that doesn’t mean your drink options need to be boring. Try pairing the chicken with:

• Sparkling water with lime and mint for a clean, refreshing sip
• Thai iced tea or a spiced chai over ice for something creamy and sweet
• Coconut water with a squeeze of lime for tropical flair
• Light herbal teas like lemongrass or ginger served cold

Dessert Pairings
If you want to finish the meal on a sweet note, keep it light and complementary. Mango sticky rice is a natural match. A simple fruit salad with pineapple, melon, and mint would also be perfect. Even a coconut milk chia pudding can bring the meal full circle with familiar tropical flavors.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this grilled peanut chicken is how well it stores and reheats. It’s an ideal dish to make ahead, use for meal prep, or save for leftovers the next day. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it for the best results.

Storing in the Refrigerator
After cooking, let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra sauce, store it separately so you can drizzle it fresh over the chicken when serving again.

Freezing Instructions
This dish freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Then place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1–2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best quality, also freeze a portion of the sauce in a separate container.

Reheating Instructions
For reheating, you can use several methods depending on your preference:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot. Stir or flip between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop: Add a little oil to a skillet and reheat the chicken over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This can help restore some of that grilled texture.

To reheat the sauce, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it, if needed. Don’t let it boil, as that may cause it to separate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, a few common pitfalls can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your grilled peanut chicken comes out perfectly every time.

Skipping the Marinating Time
The peanut sauce needs time to penetrate the chicken and infuse it with flavor. While you can get by with a quick 30-minute marinade, letting it sit for at least 1 hour—or up to 8 hours—will give you much better results. Don’t rush this step if you can help it.

Using Low-Fat or Sweetened Coconut Milk
Canned, full-fat, unsweetened coconut milk is key for a creamy, rich sauce. Low-fat versions tend to be watery and may separate during cooking, and sweetened varieties will throw off the flavor balance. Always read the label to be sure.

Overcrowding the Grill or Broiler Pan
If you place too many chicken pieces close together, they’ll steam instead of caramelize. Leave space between each piece to allow for even cooking and proper browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.

Not Reserving Sauce Before Marinating
It’s easy to forget to save some sauce before pouring the rest over the raw chicken. Once it’s been in contact with raw meat, it can’t be used as a dip or drizzle. Set aside a portion of the sauce in a separate container before marinating to avoid waste and ensure safe serving.

Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken thighs are forgiving, but they can still dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and pull the chicken at 160°F. Letting it rest afterward will bring it up to a safe 165°F without drying it out.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you get the most out of this flavorful recipe, ensuring juicy, tender chicken and a silky, balanced sauce every time.

Pro Tips

Want to take your peanut chicken to the next level? Here are some insider tips that make a big difference in texture, flavor, and presentation.

Drain Excess Marinade Before Cooking
When removing the chicken from the marinade, let any excess sauce drip off. Too much marinade on the chicken can cause flare-ups on the grill or excessive charring under the broiler. You want just a light coating to caramelize nicely.

Use a Wire Rack in the Oven
If you’re broiling instead of grilling, place the chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken and helps it cook evenly while developing that signature char.

Chill the Sauce Before Serving
That reserved peanut sauce becomes even more luscious when chilled for an hour or two. It thickens slightly and develops deeper flavor, making it the perfect dipping or drizzling sauce.

Add Chopped Peanuts for Crunch
A handful of chopped roasted peanuts sprinkled over the finished dish adds fantastic texture and visual appeal. It also enhances the nutty flavor and makes the dish feel even more complete.

Garnish Like a Pro
Top the chicken with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving. These small touches add color, freshness, and brightness to the dish, turning it into something really special.

With these pro tips, your grilled peanut chicken will come out even better than takeout—and you’ll feel like a total kitchen rockstar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Whenever I share this Thai-inspired grilled peanut chicken with friends or readers, a handful of questions tend to pop up over and over. If you’re wondering about substitutions, techniques, or storing leftovers, you’re not alone. Below, I’ve rounded up the most common questions and detailed answers so you can feel completely confident before you even step into the kitchen.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving during grilling or broiling, chicken breasts can also work very well. Just keep in mind that chicken breast cooks a bit faster and can dry out more easily, so watch the internal temperature closely. Try to pull it off the grill or out of the oven right at 160°F and allow it to rest so it doesn’t lose its moisture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, and it’s delicious. You can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even grilled vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, and zucchini. If using tofu, make sure to press out excess moisture, cut it into cubes, and marinate it for at least 30 minutes before grilling or broiling. The peanut sauce pairs just as well with plant-based proteins.

Can I make the peanut sauce in advance?
Definitely. In fact, the flavors improve with a little time to meld. You can make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, and if it thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of coconut milk or water.

How spicy is the dish as written?
The recipe has a mild heat level thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes, but it’s very customizable. If you prefer no heat, you can simply leave the red pepper out. For more spice, increase the amount or add a dash of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the marinade and dipping sauce.

What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version?
You can swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos if you’re avoiding gluten. Both options will provide the same salty, umami-rich taste without compromising the overall flavor of the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, and it will continue to rise slightly as it rests. Visually, the chicken should be opaque, with clear juices, and slightly caramelized on the outside.

Can I freeze the marinated raw chicken for later?
Yes! This is actually a great make-ahead option. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with grilling or broiling as usual.

What sides go best with this dish?
This chicken is super versatile. Try it with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried veggies, rice noodles, or a crisp salad. For extra crunch and contrast, serve it with a cucumber salad or shredded slaw. You can find detailed pairing suggestions earlier in the article.

Is there a low-carb version of this meal?
Yes, you can serve the chicken with cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb or keto-friendly option. The peanut sauce itself is naturally low in carbs, especially if you omit the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.

How can I serve this for a party or crowd?
You can easily double the recipe and serve the chicken on skewers for a fun appetizer-style presentation. Keep the reserved sauce warm or at room temperature for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for casual buffets or more formal dinners alike.

Conclusion & Call to Action

By now, you’ve probably figured out that this Thai-inspired grilled peanut chicken is much more than just another chicken recipe. It’s a flavor-packed, deeply satisfying dish that brings bold, nutty, savory, and tangy elements together in perfect harmony. And best of all, it doesn’t require complicated ingredients, fancy techniques, or hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a sunny weekend dinner, broiling a quick weeknight meal indoors, or prepping ahead for the week, this dish adapts beautifully. The creamy, aromatic peanut sauce works magic both as a marinade and a finishing drizzle, transforming humble chicken thighs into something truly special. And because the recipe is so flexible, you can make it your own—adjusting spice levels, using your favorite sides, or even trying it with tofu or veggies for a vegetarian twist.

I hope you feel excited and ready to make this recipe in your own kitchen. Once you taste that tender, charred chicken with the rich, creamy sauce, I promise it’ll find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to serve it up with some rice, a crisp salad, or noodles to round out the meal. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts and a wedge of lime go a long way in making it feel extra special.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your thoughts in the comments, tag me in your food photos on social media, or tell me what variation you made—maybe you added more spice, used chicken breast, or turned it into wraps for lunch the next day. Cooking is always better when we share our ideas, experiences, and delicious wins together.

Now go grab that peanut butter, fire up your grill or broiler, and let’s make some unforgettable chicken. Happy cooking!

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