Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Healthy slow cooker Thai peanut chicken is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients together. This recipe features a luscious coconut milk sauce enriched with peanut butter, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Its adaptability allows you to enjoy it on busy weekdays or as a centerpiece for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply combine everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy coconut milk mixed with peanut butter creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken and vegetables.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with veggies like butternut squash and bell peppers, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over brown rice or quinoa, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering slow cooker Thai peanut chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow Cooker
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows for long, slow cooking, which enhances flavors and tenderizes meat effortlessly.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that your sauce ingredients blend smoothly without lumps.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: These are essential for preparing your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Healthy slow cooker Thai peanut chicken recipe made with a simple, delicious Thai peanut coconut milk sauce, veggies, and juicy chicken.

For the Sauce

• 2 cans light coconut milk
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the Chicken and Veggies

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 small butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
• 2 large red bell peppers (cored and thinly sliced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced (about 3 cups))
• 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)

For Serving

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 lime)
• Prepared brown rice (for serving)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for serving)

How to Make Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, whisk together the following until smooth:
1. Coconut milk
2. Peanut butter
3. Red curry paste
4. Fish sauce
5. Coconut sugar or brown sugar
6. Minced ginger
7. Minced garlic
8. Crushed red pepper flakes

Step 2: Add Chicken and Vegetables

Add the chicken pieces, butternut squash, red bell pepper, and onion to the slow cooker:
1. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce thoroughly.
2. Note that the mixture will be thick.

Step 3: Set Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker:
– Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours.

Step 4: Add Peas Before Serving

Thirty minutes before you’re ready to serve:
– Add thawed peas into the mixture.
– Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Final Touches

Immediately before serving:
– Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice for brightness.
– Serve over prepared brown rice topped with chopped fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delightful meal of slow cooker Thai peanut chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is an opportunity to get creative with flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich, creamy sauce. Here are some ways to serve it up:

With Rice

• Brown Rice: Nutty and wholesome, brown rice provides a great base for soaking up the delicious peanut sauce.
• Jasmine Rice: Fragrant jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma and complements the Thai flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions give a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and color while being a healthy addition.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach can provide a slightly bitter contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh ginger and garlic for enhanced flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste compared to dried options.
• Consistent Size: Cut chicken into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking, so every bite is tender and juicy.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Thicken Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking. This allows some moisture to evaporate.
• Add Veggies Last: For crunchier vegetables, add them later in the cooking process. Consider adding peas just 30 minutes before serving.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like lime juice or fresh herbs; they brighten up the dish and enhance its overall appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a crisp contrast to the rich chicken dish.
2. Thai Spring Rolls: Fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper provide texture and are perfect for dipping in peanut sauce.
3. Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet treat that balances savory flavors, this dessert complements the meal beautifully.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and hearty, roasted sweet potatoes add depth to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that’s both nutritious and delicious. Toss with lime juice for added zest.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked colorful veggies can enhance the meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant flavors.

Enjoy creating an unforgettable dining experience with your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the whisking: Not properly mixing the sauce ingredients can lead to uneven flavors. Always whisk until smooth before adding other ingredients.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent proper cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam and heat circulation.
• Neglecting to cut chicken evenly: Unevenly sized chicken pieces may cook at different rates. Cut them into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
• Forgetting the lime juice: Adding lime juice too early can diminish its fresh flavor. Always stir it in right before serving for a bright finish.
• Ignoring the cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Follow recommended times closely for tender results.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The heat can vary with red curry paste. Taste and adjust according to your preference while cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Leave some headspace in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until warmed through; add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken?

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a flavorful dish made with juicy chicken pieces simmered in a creamy peanut coconut sauce, combined with fresh vegetables.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or switch the protein to turkey or lamb based on your preference.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the amount of red curry paste used. Start with a smaller amount if you’re sensitive to heat, then adjust as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook in the slow cooker.

Is Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with lean protein from chicken and nutritious vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep or family dinners, allowing you to customize the flavors and ingredients according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness with your favorite accompaniments!

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