If you are craving an irresistibly rich and flavorful dinner that melts in your mouth and fills your home with the most inviting aroma, look no further than this Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe. It combines tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection in a luscious peanut sauce made from creamy peanut butter and coconut milk, infused with layers of garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum taste, turning any mealtime into a warm, memorable occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the carefully chosen ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the creamy texture of peanut butter and coconut milk to the bright acidity of rice vinegar and the punch of fresh ginger, every element plays a crucial role in crafting the deep, layered flavor of this dish.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient giving the sauce its creamy richness and nutty depth.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Adds a smooth, slightly sweet creaminess that balances the savory and spicy flavors.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings salty umami essential for depth and balance.
- 1/4 cup honey: Provides a subtle sweetness that enhances the peanut flavor and softens acidity.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds brightness and a tangy lift to cut through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Offers a toasty, fragrant note that complements the peanuts perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a warm, pungent aroma that elevates the savory profile.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds freshness and a slight zing, balancing the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle heat that wakes up the dish without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh, mild onion flavor at the end.
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish): Provides delightful crunch and extra peanut goodness.
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving): Acts as the perfect base to soak up the luscious sauce.
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Trimming off any visible fat will help keep the dish from becoming greasy. Then cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb the flavorful sauce better.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and fully combined. This creates the luscious base of your sauce, rich with savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
Step 3: Add Fresh Aromatics and Spice
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients awaken the sauce with warmth and a gentle spicy kick. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little more coconut milk to reach the perfect pourable consistency.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken pieces evenly in the slow cooker. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. Gently stir with a spatula to distribute the sauce thoroughly, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re short on time, on high for 3 to 4 hours. About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, give the chicken a gentle stir to redistribute the sauce and help thicken it slightly.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken onto a serving plate, letting any excess sauce drip off. Then drizzle the remaining peanut sauce over the top for an extra creamy finish. Garnish with chopped green onions and peanuts for a fresh crunch and colorful presentation.
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The combination of chopped green onions and crushed peanuts not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also contributes varying textures and fresh flavors that bring this dish to life. These simple garnishes are the perfect way to elevate your Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or warm noodles that soak up every delicious drop of the creamy peanut sauce. For a lighter side, roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots make excellent companions, balancing the richness with a touch of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your peanut chicken over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. You can also turn it into a warm, filling salad by tossing the chicken with fresh greens and a drizzle of extra peanut sauce, perfect for a fusion-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and improve after a day, but it’s best eaten within 3 to 4 days for freshness and safety.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for later, it freezes beautifully. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you leave some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months and makes for a convenient, flavorful meal anytime you need it.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much to restore its creamy texture without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts will work, but thighs stay more tender and juicy during the long cooking time, giving you that perfect fall-apart texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking. Just adjust gradually to suit your heat preference.
Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?
You can try almond or cashew butter, but it will change the flavor profile significantly. Peanut butter is classic for its bold, nutty taste that defines this recipe.
Do I need to add extra salt to the dish?
The soy sauce provides plenty of saltiness, so additional salt is usually unnecessary. Taste after cooking and adjust if needed.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Whisking the sauce thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker and stirring gently during cooking helps keep the ingredients emulsified. Adding a bit of extra coconut milk before serving can also smooth out any separation.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that proves comfort food can also be exciting and full of unique flavors. It’s effortless, adaptable, and brings such warmth to the table that it’s bound to become a household favorite. Enjoy the wonderful combination of creaminess, spice, and nutty goodness and share it with the people you love most!
Print
Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
This Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy peanut sauce made with coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, it combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements, served best over rice or noodles and garnished with green onions and chopped peanuts.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Peanut Sauce
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
To Serve
- Cooked rice or noodles
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off any visible fat, then cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Make the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add aromatics and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk again until fully incorporated. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more coconut milk if it’s too thick.
- Assemble in the slow cooker: Place the chicken pieces evenly in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Gently stir with a spatula to integrate the sauce and chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, gently stir the chicken to redistribute the sauce and check for tenderness.
- Serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken onto a serving platter, allowing excess sauce to drain back into the slow cooker. Drizzle the remaining peanut sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.
- Garnish and enjoy: Serve the Cooker Peanut Chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish liberally with chopped green onions and chopped peanuts for added texture and freshness.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- The sauce consistency can be modified with additional coconut milk to make it creamier or thinner.
- Chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, but skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute.
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken to avoid dryness—check around the minimum recommended time.
- Leftover chicken and sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
