If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s both comforting and a little bit exotic, Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken might just be your new go-to.
Imagine tender chicken pieces simmering away in a rich, creamy peanut sauce, filling your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas.
It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make!
Variations and Substitutions
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Want to make this dish vegan? Swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free and use a plant-based milk like almond or cashew milk instead of coconut milk.
Gluten-Free Adjustments
Most ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check any other packaged ingredients.
Why Choose a Slow Cooker?
Slow cookers are like the superheroes of the kitchen. You toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it.
Hours later, you have a delicious meal waiting for you. They save time, enhance flavors, and keep your hands free for other tasks. What’s not to love?
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
Over Rice: Serve the peanut chicken over steamed jasmine or basmati rice.
With Noodles: Pair with cooked rice noodles or soba noodles for a different texture.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or snap peas.
With a Salad: A light cucumber salad or Asian slaw can add a refreshing contrast.
In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the peanut chicken into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or mint along with the cilantro for extra flavor.
Topped with Extra Peanuts: Sprinkle additional chopped peanuts for more crunch.
With Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
Drizzle of Sriracha: Add a drizzle of Sriracha or another hot sauce for added spice.
Side of Mango Salad: Pair with a fresh mango salad for a tropical twist.
These serving suggestions will enhance your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken and create a well-rounded, delicious meal. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will give the sauce a more vibrant flavor compared to powdered versions.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more coconut milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Peanut Butter Substitutes: For a different flavor, try using almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Additional Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrients.
Serve with Coconut Rice: For extra flavor, cook the rice in coconut milk instead of water.
By following these tips and suggestions, your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken will be a delicious and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your cooking!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time as breasts can dry out faster than thighs.
Is it necessary to stir the dish while it cooks?
It’s not essential, but stirring occasionally can help the sauce distribute evenly.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add more Sriracha, a pinch of chili flakes, or even some fresh chopped chili for extra heat.
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for spice
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts for garnish
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a small amount of oil.
- Add Chicken:Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce:In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken:Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken, making sure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cook:Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred Chicken:Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce. Alternatively, you can leave the chicken pieces whole if you prefer.
- Serve:Serve the peanut chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.