Effortless & Delicious Chicken with Peanut Butter Recipe – Weeknight Dinner Delight!

Here’s Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Peanut Butter Recipe

Hey there, busy cooks! Feeling stuck in a dinner rut? We totally get it! Weeknights can be hectic, and the last thing you need is a complicated recipe. That’s why we’re absolutely thrilled to share this incredibly easy and utterly delicious chicken recipe with peanut butter recipe. Seriously, this dish is a game-changer. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, bursting with flavor, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Imagine tender chicken coated in a rich, savory peanut butter sauce – it’s comfort food with a fun twist! Ready to transform your weeknight dinners from drab to fab? Let’s get cooking and discover just how simple and satisfying this recipe truly is!

Trust us, once you try this chicken with peanut butter, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. It’s not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your family – even picky eaters will be surprised by how much they love this unique combination. So, ditch the takeout menus and let’s make some kitchen magic together. You’re going to be amazed at how effortlessly you can create a restaurant-worthy meal right at home. Let’s dive in! If you love easy and flavorful chicken recipes, you might also enjoy this kickin chicken recipe for another weeknight win.

Printable Recipe Card: Your Easy Chicken with Peanut Butter Guide!

Effortless & Delicious Chicken with Peanut Butter Recipe – Weeknight Dinner Delight!

This quick and easy chicken with peanut butter recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features tender chicken in a savory and flavorful peanut butter sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying and family-friendly meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, asian-inspired

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large Skillet or Wok For cooking chicken and sauce
• 1 Medium Bowl For mixing sauce ingredients
• 1 Whisk For blending sauce
• 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient measurement
• 1 Cutting Board For prepping chicken and ginger/garlic
• 1 Knife For cutting chicken and ginger/garlic
• 1 Grater For grating fresh ginger
• 1 Garlic Press (optional) For mincing garlic easily

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter no sugar added recommended
• 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• cooked rice for serving
• chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
• sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

• First, let’s get everything ready for smooth cooking! Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch each. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth and set aside. Pro-tip: Ensure your peanut butter is creamy and well-stirred for the smoothest sauce.
• Now, let’s cook that chicken to golden perfection! Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you’ll see it shimmer), add the cubed chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Safety first! Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Time for the magic to happen! Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to make sure every piece of chicken is nicely coated in that luscious sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and is heated through. Gentle Simmer is Key: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it can become too thick or separate. A gentle simmer ensures a creamy, perfect consistency.
• Dinner is served! Spoon the delicious chicken with peanut butter over bowls of warm cooked rice. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These are optional, but they really elevate the dish both visually and taste-wise. Serve immediately and enjoy every flavorful bite! Serving Suggestion: A side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish for a balanced meal.

Notes

Make it Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian or vegan version.

Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes or add sriracha/chili garlic sauce to taste for a spicier dish.

Nut Butter Variations: Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter.

Keyword chicken, easy, family friendly, peanut butter, quick, weeknight dinner

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients for This Chicken with Peanut Butter

Full Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (no sugar added recommended)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Easy Substitutions

• Nut Butter Variety: Out of peanut butter? No problem! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter work beautifully in this recipe. Each will lend a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite!
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: If you’re watching your sodium intake or need a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. They both provide that savory umami flavor we’re looking for.
• Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey or maple syrup. For a sugar-free option, consider using a liquid sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting to your taste. Or if you are looking for another creamy and flavorful chicken recipe, you can check out this pollo a la crema recipe.

Budget-Friendly Tips and Finding Ingredients

• Chicken Thighs for Budget: Chicken breasts can be pricey. Switching to boneless, skinless chicken thighs is a fantastic way to save money without sacrificing flavor. Thighs are also more forgiving and stay moist during cooking.
• Pantry Staples First: Before heading to the store, check your pantry! You likely already have soy sauce, oil, vinegar, and spices. Buying only the chicken and peanut butter can significantly cut down your grocery bill.
• Bulk Buying for Savings: If you make this recipe often (and we bet you will!), consider buying chicken in bulk when it’s on sale and freezing it in portions. This is a great way to ensure you always have chicken on hand for quick meals. For another freezer-friendly chicken option, consider making a big batch of Panda Express teriyaki chicken recipe.

Time to Cook! Your Step-by-Step Guide for Chicken with Peanut Butter

1. Step 1: Prep the Chicken & Sauce Ingredients.
   

   First, let’s get everything ready for smooth cooking! Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch each. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth and set aside. Pro-tip: Ensure your peanut butter is creamy and well-stirred for the smoothest sauce.

   
   
2. Step 2: Sauté the Chicken.
   

   Now, let’s cook that chicken to golden perfection! Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you’ll see it shimmer), add the cubed chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Safety first! Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

   
   
3. Step 3: Simmer in Peanut Butter Sauce.
   

   Time for the magic to happen! Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to make sure every piece of chicken is nicely coated in that luscious sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and is heated through. Gentle Simmer is Key: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it can become too thick or separate. A gentle simmer ensures a creamy, perfect consistency.

   
   
4. Step 4: Serve and Garnish.
   

   Dinner is served! Spoon the delicious chicken with peanut butter over bowls of warm cooked rice. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These are optional, but they really elevate the dish both visually and taste-wise. Serve immediately and enjoy every flavorful bite! Serving Suggestion: A side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish for a balanced meal.

   
   

Our Best Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Chicken with Peanut Butter

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even more tender and flavorful chicken, marinate the cubed chicken in a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This simple step adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a minute or two longer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked. Cook just until they are no longer pink in the center and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be tough and less enjoyable. For another recipe that ensures juicy chicken, try this Longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe.
• Spice it Up!: Love some heat? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the peanut butter sauce for an extra kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference.
• Fresh Ginger is Best: While ground ginger can work in a pinch, fresh ginger really brightens up the flavors in this dish. It’s worth the extra effort to use fresh ginger for the best taste.

What to Serve with Your Delicious Chicken with Peanut Butter: Perfect Pairings

This chicken with peanut butter is fantastic on its own over rice, but to make it a complete and balanced meal, consider these yummy pairings:

• Classic Rice: Steamed white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all excellent choices to soak up that flavorful peanut butter sauce.
• Noodles for Fun: Try serving it over egg noodles, ramen noodles, or even spaghetti for a fun twist.
• Veggies on the Side: Steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, stir-fried bok choy, or roasted asparagus add a healthy and colorful element to your meal.
• Refreshing Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the peanut butter sauce.
• Quinoa for Extra Nutrients: For a healthier grain option, serve your chicken with peanut butter over quinoa. It’s packed with protein and fiber.

How to Store and Reheat Your Delicious Chicken with Peanut Butter

Lucky you – leftovers! This chicken with peanut butter is just as tasty (if not more so!) the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it to keep it delicious:

• Storing: Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Quick Tip: Store the chicken and rice separately if possible to prevent the rice from becoming soggy.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to thin the sauce slightly and prevent it from drying out. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave Reheating: For a quicker option, you can reheat it in the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Again, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

Your Chicken with Peanut Butter FAQ: Simple Answers for Confident Cooking

• Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
  

  A: Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the sauce. Just be aware that the sauce will have a slightly chunkier consistency compared to using creamy peanut butter. Both are delicious!

  
  
• Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
  

  A: Yes, easily! Substitute the chicken with firm or extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes, or use chickpeas. Tofu will need to be pressed to remove excess water before cooking. Chickpeas can be added directly to the sauce to heat through. For another vegetarian option, you may want to try our beef stroganoff recipe without mushrooms, just swap beef with mushrooms for a vegetarian stroganoff.

  
  
• Q: My peanut butter sauce is too thick! What do I do?
  

  A: No worries, easy fix! Simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Simmer for a minute or two to let the flavors meld.

  
  
• Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
  

  A: Yes, you can prep some components in advance! You can cut the chicken and whisk together the sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just sauté the chicken and then add the pre-made sauce. This can save you time on busy weeknights.

  
  
• Q: Can I freeze leftover chicken with peanut butter?
  

  A: While you can freeze it, the texture of the peanut butter sauce might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit grainy. However, it’s still safe to eat and will be flavorful. For best results, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

  
  

Time to Savor Your Delicious Chicken with Peanut Butter and Share the Joy

And there you have it – a super simple, incredibly tasty chicken with peanut butter recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a flavorful and fuss-free meal. It’s proof that delicious cooking doesn’t have to be complicated! We hope you love this recipe as much as we do. Now it’s your turn to shine in the kitchen!

Loved this recipe? We’d be so grateful if you could give it a 5-star rating below! And don’t forget to snap a photo of your amazing chicken with peanut butter creation and share it with our community on social media! Tag us on Instagram and Pinterest – we can’t wait to see your culinary masterpieces and welcome you to our supportive cooking family. Happy cooking!