Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Name: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds; Cooked rice or noodles

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together creamy peanut butter and spicy seasonings for a unique dish that's sure to impress.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:22:28.680Z

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken recipe was inspired by my travels through Southeast Asia, where the combination of peanut butter and spices creates a mouthwatering dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Quick and easy to make, ready in under an hour
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Flavorful Fusion

The combination of spicy and creamy flavors in this Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is what makes it truly special. The creamy peanut butter acts as a rich base, while the sriracha adds the perfect kick. This dish is not just about heat; it’s about balancing flavors that complement each other beautifully. The lime juice adds a refreshing acidity to cut through the richness of the peanut butter, making every bite a delightful experience.

Incorporating ginger and garlic enhances the flavor profile further, providing warmth and depth. These ingredients not only contribute to the overall taste but also offer a hint of aromatic goodness that makes the cooking process enjoyable. As the chicken cooks, the scents waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the dinner table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or preparing a meal for your family, this dish fits the bill. Its quick preparation time means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or impress guests on the weekend without spending all day in the kitchen.

Additionally, this dish can easily be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the peanut sauce. For those who love heat, feel free to add more! This adaptability ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a plate of this delicious meal.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the best aspects of this Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once, store it in airtight containers, and enjoy it throughout the week. This is perfect for those looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. Just reheat the chicken and serve it over fresh rice or noodles for a quick lunch or dinner.

Leftovers also taste fantastic the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. This means that your next meal will be just as delicious as the first. Don't hesitate to experiment with different sides or salads to keep things fresh and exciting when using leftovers!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Peanut Sauce

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

For Serving

Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Cooked rice or noodles

Mix all the ingredients well before starting your cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Make the Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, lime juice, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the peanut sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve the spicy peanut butter chicken over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken, consider pairing it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add a crispy contrast to the dish. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work particularly well, offering a colorful addition to your plate. The crunchiness of the veggies balances the creamy sauce and tender chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a more indulgent experience, serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice or noodles tossed in sesame oil. This allows you to fully enjoy the peanut sauce as it coats the grains, enhancing the overall flavor. Garnishing with chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also introduces extra texture and taste.

Storing and Reheating

To store your Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. When properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts.

When reheating, it's best to do so on the stovetop to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency. Simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet to help loosen the sauce as it warms up. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring that your dish remains delicious and enjoyable, just like when you first made it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and will add more flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in the peanut sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.