Hello food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a flavorful and exciting dish – Chicken Satay. This traditional Southeast Asian skewered and BBQed meat is incredibly popular, not just as a snack or appetizer but also as the perfect main course when paired with rice in spring roll bowls. With a burst of curry powder and turmeric, this dish not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely delicious. Let’s learn how to make this vibrant, aromatic meal step-by-step!
Introduction
Chicken Satay is a renowned dish across Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Traditionally served with a sweet and tangy peanut dipping sauce, the satay’s distinct golden color comes from turmeric and curry powder. Though often enjoyed as a snack or street food, combining it with rice and fresh veggies in a spring roll bowl transforms it into a hearty meal. This dish is incredibly versatile, comforting, and satisfying – a must-try for anyone craving a new twist on Southeast Asian cuisine.
Check out this Peanut Butter Ganache Guide for a sweet dessert pairing!
Ingredients for Chicken Satay
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delicious Chicken Satay recipe:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless & skinless, cut into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh garlic (finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger paste
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- ¼ cup coconut milk
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or honey)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste, if you like it spicy)
- Chopped cilantro, lime juice, chopped peanuts (for garnish)
Substitution tips:
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- For a dairy-free version, replace coconut milk with almond milk.
How to Make Chicken Satay – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, coconut milk, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
Step 2: Thread the Chicken
After marinating for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for better flavor), thread the chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and place the skewers on the pan. Avoid overcrowding to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, turning until golden brown. Reduce the heat and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and chopped peanuts. Serve alongside rice or in spring roll bowls with fresh veggies like cucumbers, carrots, and lettuce.
For more delicious meal ideas, check out Ultimate Cowboy Casserole.
Helpful Tips for Chicken Satay
- Marinate longer: For the most intense flavors, let the chicken marinate overnight. This helps the spices fully penetrate the meat.
- Use coconut oil: It pairs beautifully with the curry and coconut milk flavors.
- Skewer variety: You can also try mixing in veggies like bell peppers or onions on the skewers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Satay
To get perfectly cooked chicken satay, follow these techniques:
- Grill it outdoors for an authentic BBQ flavor.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if you’re cooking indoors. It retains heat evenly and creates a nice sear.
- Don’t forget to rotate the skewers frequently for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Satay
Chicken Satay pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice.
- Fresh, crunchy vegetables like cucumber slices, carrots, and leafy greens for a spring roll bowl effect.
- A simple peanut dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce to elevate the flavors.
For a refreshing drink, try pairing with a tangy Thai iced tea or a crisp cucumber limeade.
Nutritional Information
This Chicken Satay recipe is high in protein and packed with essential vitamins from the spices and herbs.
Nutritional info per serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium.
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Satay
To store your Chicken Satay:
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave on medium power to heat evenly.
Tip: Avoid over-reheating to keep the chicken moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Satay
Q1: Can I use a different protein for satay?
Yes! Beef, pork, or tofu can be used in place of chicken.
Q2: What’s the best way to grill chicken satay?
For the best flavor, grill on medium heat and rotate the skewers frequently.
Q3: Is there a vegetarian version of chicken satay?
Absolutely! Try using tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken.
Q4: Can I freeze chicken satay?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure to store in an airtight container.
Related Recipes for Chicken Satay Lovers
- Sausage Balls Recipe
– A savory snack to complement your chicken satay.
- Peanut Butter Ganache
– For a sweet dessert pairing with your meal.
Conclusion
I hope you’re excited to try this Chicken Satay recipe! It’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to please. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or as a complete meal in a spring roll bowl, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and hard to forget. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out or any tweaks you made to personalize the dish.
Happy cooking!
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Chicken Satay Recipe – Easy Spring Roll Bowls Delight
Description
Hello food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a flavorful and exciting dish – Chicken Satay. This traditional Southeast Asian skewered and BBQed meat is incredibly popular, not just as a snack or appetizer but also as the perfect main course when paired with rice in spring roll bowls. With a burst of curry powder and turmeric, this dish not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely delicious. Let’s learn how to make this vibrant, aromatic meal step-by-step!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless & skinless, cut into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh garlic (finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger paste
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- ¼ cup coconut milk
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or honey)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste, if you like it spicy)
- Chopped cilantro, lime juice, chopped peanuts (for garnish)
Substitution tips:
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- For a dairy-free version, replace coconut milk with almond milk.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, coconut milk, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
Step 2: Thread the Chicken
After marinating for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for better flavor), thread the chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and place the skewers on the pan. Avoid overcrowding to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, turning until golden brown. Reduce the heat and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and chopped peanuts. Serve alongside rice or in spring roll bowls with fresh veggies like cucumbers, carrots, and lettuce.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Marinate longer: For the most intense flavors, let the chicken marinate overnight. This helps the spices fully penetrate the meat.
- Use coconut oil: It pairs beautifully with the curry and coconut milk flavors.
- Skewer variety: You can also try mixing in veggies like bell peppers or onions on the skewers.
