Mini Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized skewers are marinated in a fragrant blend of soy sauce, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, then grilled to perfection. The highlight of this dish is the rich and creamy peanut sauce, which adds a burst of flavor to the juicy, charred chicken. Garnished with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges, these skewers are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create these mouth-watering skewers, explore variations to customize the recipe, and provide pairing ideas for a memorable appetizer experience.
Why You’ll Love Mini Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
1. Bold, Savory Flavors
The marinade for the chicken features a blend of soy sauce, coconut milk, garlic, and spices like turmeric and coriander, creating a savory and aromatic flavor profile. Paired with the creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce, every bite is packed with bold and delicious flavors.
2. Perfect for Entertaining
These mini skewers are easy to eat, making them a great choice for parties, gatherings, or as a starter for a meal. Guests can grab a skewer and dip it into the peanut sauce for a convenient and satisfying bite.
3. Quick and Easy to Prepare
With a simple marinade and quick grilling time, these skewers are easy to make and require minimal effort. The peanut sauce comes together in minutes, making this appetizer perfect for both casual and elegant occasions.
4. Versatile and Customizable
You can easily customize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian version or adjust the spice level of the peanut sauce to your liking.
Ingredients for Mini Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
For the Chicken Satay:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for skewers.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a salty, savory flavor to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons coconut milk: Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a touch of acidity for brightness.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional): Adds a deep umami flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a warm, citrusy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Complements the other spices with a hint of smokiness.
- 12 small skewers or toothpicks: For serving.
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The base of the sauce, providing a rich and nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a hint of tropical flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the richness with sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Adds a tangy, citrusy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (or to taste): Adds a touch of heat and flavor complexity.
- Warm water, to thin the sauce if needed: Adjust the consistency to your preference.
For Garnish:
- Chopped peanuts: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Fresh cilantro: Provides a burst of freshness and color.
- Lime wedges: For squeezing over the skewers to brighten the flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mini Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce (if using), minced garlic, ground turmeric, coriander, and cumin until well combined.
- Add the chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in the marinade, tossing to coat each piece evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and chili garlic sauce until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Skewers
- Thread the chicken onto skewers: After marinating, remove the chicken from the fridge and thread each piece onto a small skewer or toothpick.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan, and cook the chicken skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Arrange the skewers on a platter: Drizzle or serve the peanut sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro over the skewers, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
Tips for Perfect Mini Chicken Satay Skewers
1. Soak Wooden Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder peanut sauce, reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or omit it entirely. For extra heat, add more chili garlic sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Use Thighs for Juicier Chicken
For a juicier and more flavorful option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are more forgiving and won’t dry out as easily.
4. Make Ahead
The peanut sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk in a bit of warm water to loosen the sauce before serving. The chicken can also be marinated the night before to save time.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 skewer with sauce):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Variations of Mini Chicken Satay Skewers
These skewers can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Here are some variations to consider:
1. Make It Vegetarian
Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Marinate and grill the tofu or tempeh the same way for a flavorful and protein-rich appetizer.
2. Try a Spicy Marinade
Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick. This adds heat and pairs well with the creamy peanut sauce.
3. Use Different Nut Butters
If you have a peanut allergy or prefer a different flavor, use almond butter or cashew butter in the peanut sauce. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious, with a unique twist.
4. Serve with Pickled Vegetables
Add a side of pickled cucumbers or carrots to balance the richness of the peanut sauce with a tangy crunch. The acidity of the pickled vegetables complements the savory chicken beautifully.
5. Top with Crushed Red Pepper
For an extra kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the skewers before serving. This adds a bit of heat and color to the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
These Mini Chicken Satay Skewers pair well with a variety of drinks and side dishes:
- Serve with White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, complements the rich flavors of the peanut sauce and the savory chicken.
- Pair with Thai Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, serve with Thai iced tea for a refreshing and slightly sweet pairing.
- Include on a Party Platter: Add these skewers to a larger party platter with fresh vegetables, spring rolls, and dipping sauces for a complete appetizer spread.
- Serve with Jasmine Rice: If you’d like to make this a more substantial dish, serve the skewers over jasmine rice or alongside a simple cucumber salad.
Mini Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce are a must-try appetizer that’s full of flavor and easy to make. The combination of tender, marinated chicken with the rich, creamy peanut sauce is simply irresistible. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to become a favorite.
Give this recipe a try and wow your guests with the delicious taste of homemade chicken satay!