Some days, you just want to throw ingredients into a pot and magically have dinner ready hours later. Slow cooker peanut chicken is here to grant that wish, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful dish.
- Peanut butter adds a creamy texture and a protein boost, making it satisfying and nutritious.
- It’s incredibly versatile; serve it over rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup peanut butter, creamy
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Gradually add the chicken broth to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. This ensures every bite is perfectly coated.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-covered. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with all those delicious flavors.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6 hours. The low and slow cooking method ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors of the sauce.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. This allows the chicken to mix evenly with the sauce, creating a cohesive and mouthwatering dish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the peanut chicken over your choice of base, such as rice or noodles, and garnish with chopped peanuts or cilantro for an extra crunch and freshness. This final touch elevates the dish from great to unforgettable.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3 hours is an option, but low and slow yields the best texture. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Recipe Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour of cooking for a veggie-packed version.
- Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as tender or flavorful as thighs due to their lower fat content. Adjust cooking time to prevent drying out.
Is there a substitute for peanut butter?
Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives for those with peanut allergies, offering a similar texture and richness.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat for a quick and easy meal.
Summary
Slow cooker peanut chicken is the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a dish that pleases everyone at the table.
