Chicken with Peanut Butter: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe
This recipe for chicken with peanut butter offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this dish balances savory chicken with the creamy richness of peanut butter, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, natural or regular, your preference!
- 1/4 cup soy sauce, adjust to your taste for saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons honey, or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, adds a nice tangy balance.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, for that authentic Asian flair.
- 1 clove garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is always best, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger, adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), for a little kick!
- 1/4 cup water, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish). Garnishes add visual appeal and a final flavor boost.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to coat the chicken in the sauce.
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Whisk the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth and well combined. Gradually add water until you reach your preferred sauce consistency.
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Marinate (Optional): For the most flavorful result, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors fully. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating is highly recommended.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
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Combine and Simmer: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or quinoa. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Make it crunchy: Add some chopped peanuts or cashews for added texture.
- Add vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use different protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different twist.
This chicken with peanut butter recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Enjoy!
