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Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a simple and comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy peanut sauce infused with garlic, ginger, lime, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this recipe offers rich, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness and optional spice. Ideal for meal prep, family dinners, and customizable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (tamari for gluten free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

For Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Chopped peanuts (optional)
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar or honey, lime juice, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth and well combined. This sauce base will provide the creamy and tangy flavor your dish needs.
  2. Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they’re in a single layer for even cooking.
  3. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Evenly pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated with the flavorful mixture.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and the sauce has thickened nicely.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Before serving, gently stir to combine the sauce and chicken. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and, if desired, chopped peanuts for added crunch and freshness.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
  • Don’t skip the lime juice – it brightens and balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
  • Taste the sauce before adding it to the slow cooker and adjust sweetness or salt as needed.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for a more vibrant flavor than powdered alternatives.
  • If the sauce is too thin at the end of cooking, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water and stir in; cook on high for 10-15 minutes to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker peanut chicken, peanut chicken, easy dinner, slow cooker recipe, gluten free chicken, creamy peanut sauce, weeknight dinner