Savory Chicken Satay Skewers

Name: Savory Chicken Satay Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp curry powder; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, grated; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp chili paste (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Delight in these flavorful chicken satay skewers, marinated in a rich blend of spices and served with a creamy peanut sauce.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-04T07:02:29.136Z

This dish is inspired by the street food of Southeast Asia, where skewered and grilled meats are a beloved delicacy. The combination of spices and the creamy peanut sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices
Rich and creamy peanut sauce for dipping
Perfect for grilling season or as an appetizer

      

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Chicken satay skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a starter at a dinner party, a fun addition to a summer barbecue, or even as a tasty snack for game day. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to handle and perfect for dipping, allowing guests to enjoy them without the need for utensils. The vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make these skewers a hit with both adults and children alike.

Moreover, chicken satay can cater to various dietary preferences. By using chicken breast, you ensure a lean protein source, while the peanut sauce offers a rich, creamy complement. Whether served alongside fresh vegetables or with a side of rice, these skewers can easily be adapted to suit your needs. You can even substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist.

Marinade Magic

The marinade is the star of this chicken satay recipe. It combines soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar to create a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The addition of curry powder gives the chicken a warm, aromatic profile that enhances its taste when grilled. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is crucial, as it enables the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken that will impress your guests.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, feel free to customize the marinade to suit your taste preferences. You might consider adding a splash of lime juice for acidity or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to create a version that’s uniquely yours.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Skewers

Grilling chicken satay skewers to perfection requires attention to detail. Preheating the grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring even cooking. Aim for a medium-high heat – this will sear the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy inside. It’s important to keep an eye on the skewers while they cook; the sugar in the marinade can cause them to caramelize quickly, so turning them regularly is key.

If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water before grilling is a must. This prevents them from burning on the grill, allowing your skewers to hold their shape and keep the chicken intact. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers, which will not require soaking and can be reused, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Ingredients

For Chicken Satay

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp curry powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp vegetable oil
8 wooden skewers, soaked in water

For Peanut Sauce

1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp chili paste (optional)

Ensure that all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, garlic, ginger, and vegetable oil. Add the chicken strips and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan, mix together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, and chili paste. Heat over low heat until smooth and combined.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the soaked skewers.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Serve the chicken satay skewers hot with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your savory chicken satay skewers as a delightful appetizer or main dish!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chicken satay experience, consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. While the creamy peanut sauce is a classic choice, a tangy cucumber salad or a spicy chili sauce can add an exciting twist. Pair the skewers with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

These skewers also make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board. Arrange them alongside other appetizers like spring rolls, meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits for a visually appealing and delicious spread. This approach invites guests to mix and match flavors, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the skewers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the oven or on the grill is the best option to revive their juicy texture.

For a quick lunch or dinner option, consider shredding the leftover chicken and adding it to salads, wraps, or stir-fries. This not only saves you time but also adds a burst of flavor to your meals, making it a win-win situation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef, pork, or tofu as alternatives.

→ How can I make the peanut sauce spicier?

Add more chili paste or a chopped fresh chili to your peanut sauce.

→ Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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