Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

There are nights when all I want is a deeply comforting meal but no energy for fussing over the stove This slow cooker peanut chicken has saved me time and again The savory sauce with a creamy hint of spice coats tender pieces of chicken making it a family favorite for nights that just need a little extra comfort

Every time I make this I find myself sneaking spoonfuls of the sauce straight from the slow cooker It is pure comfort and always a hit with my friends when they come over for dinner

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: The cut you choose determines tenderness Thighs stay moist and have more flavor
• Unsweetened natural peanut butter: Creaminess is key here Select a no stir jar for easy mixing
• Low sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and more control over salt Always check your labels
• Honey or brown sugar: A little sweetness balances the savory peanut and soy Choose honey for a hint of floral flavor
• Rice vinegar or lime juice: Brightness and tanginess Choose fresh limes if using juice
• Sesame oil: This is optional but gives the sauce a lovely nutty edge Toasted sesame oil is best
• Fresh ginger: Grate it for zingy freshness Do not swap for powdered if possible
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic builds depth Pre-chopped loses punch
• Red chili flakes or Sriracha: Pick based on your spice level For most kids chili flakes are easier
• Canned coconut milk: Optional for extra creaminess I love using full fat here
• Water or chicken broth: Use if your sauce needs thinning Broth adds another layer of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

Whisk peanut butter soy sauce honey rice vinegar sesame oil ginger garlic chili and coconut milk plus water or broth in a mixing bowl Aim for a smooth uniform consistency so no peanut butter lumps remain

Layer and Add Chicken:

Place chicken pieces at the bottom of your slow cooker and ensure they are spread out evenly Pour the sauce over every piece making sure each bit of chicken is coated

Cook Low and Slow:

Set the slow cooker to low for four to six hours or high for two to three hours The chicken should shred easily and the sauce will thicken

Finish and Shred:

Once the chicken is cooked use two forks to shred it directly in the cooker Stir everything together so the meat becomes saturated with the sauce

Taste and Adjust:

Now is your chance to taste and tweak for seasoning Add extra lime juice or chili for brightness or heat You can also thin the sauce with a splash of broth if you want it looser

Pin it

I always reach for natural peanut butter because I love its creamy balanced taste When my sister visited last fall we polished off the whole pot and practically fought for the last spoonful of sauce over rice It is a cozy meal that brings everyone to the table

Storage tips

Leftovers keep well for up to four days in the refrigerator Store them in airtight containers for best quality If the sauce thickens too much add a splash of water or broth when reheating This dish can also be frozen for up to three months Thaw overnight before reheating gently so the sauce stays creamy

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have coconut milk you can increase the water or use extra broth for a lighter sauce Almond butter works for a fun twist and sunflower seed butter makes this nut free Tamari or coconut aminos can be used for gluten free needs

Serving suggestions

Spoon the peanut chicken over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa For crunch and extra flavor add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts diced scallions or fresh cilantro To get closer to the Thai street food spirit offer lime wedges and a quick pickled cucumber salad on the side

Pin it

Cultural and historical context

This recipe draws inspiration from classic Thai peanut sauces and the slow cooked chicken curries you find in Southeast Asia While it is not strictly traditional I love how it brings those flavors home using familiar kitchen staples and the ease of the slow cooker

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Which cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless thighs yield the most tender, juicy result, but chicken breasts will also work well if preferred.

→ Can the peanut sauce be made less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the red chili flakes or Sriracha for a milder version while keeping flavor intact.

→ Is coconut milk necessary?

Coconut milk adds creaminess and depth, but you can leave it out or substitute with a little extra broth if desired.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

→ What can be served alongside?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or lightly sautéed vegetables like bok choy or snap peas.

→ Can this meal be made ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare and assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.