Easy Slow Cooker Satay Chicken

Easy Slow Cooker Satay Chicken brings all the bold, nutty, and savory flavors of a classic Thai-inspired satay dish with the simplicity of a slow cooker. Tender chicken is simmered in a rich peanut sauce made with coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, and spices—perfect for serving over rice or noodles. It’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors
• Minimal prep with a delicious payoff
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Family-friendly and customizable to your spice level
• Pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• Coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger or ground ginger
• Brown sugar or honey
• Lime juice
• Curry powder or red curry paste
• Chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Directions

1. Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, lime juice, curry powder (or red curry paste), and chili flakes or sriracha if using.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 56 hours or high for 2.53.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred or slice the chicken and stir it back into the sauce.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or with stir-fried veggies.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 46 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 56 hours on low or 2.53.5 hours on high
Total time: About 56 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)

Variations

• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version
• Add sliced bell peppers or carrots during the last hour for more texture
• Swap curry powder for Thai red curry paste for a deeper flavor
• Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist
• Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, it adds extra texture to the sauce and works just as well as smooth.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild by default, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha to increase the heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well, but thighs stay juicier during slow cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish is great for meal prep and can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Is satay chicken gluten-free?

Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy.

Can I thicken the sauce?

Yes, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to reduce the sauce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Just keep an eye on the sauce consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, add quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour to avoid overcooking.

What can I use instead of coconut milk?

You can substitute with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative, but coconut milk provides the most authentic flavor.

Conclusion

Easy Slow Cooker Satay Chicken is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that brings comforting Thai-inspired flavors to your dinner table with little effort. With its rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Serve it your way—with rice, noodles, or veggies—and enjoy a delicious takeout-style meal at home.

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