Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of peanut butter with a delightful blend of spices and tender chicken. This dish brings together the essence of Thai-inspired flavors while utilizing the convenience of a slow cooker to create a fuss-free, one-pot meal. With its melt-in-your-mouth chicken and decadent sauce, this recipe is a perfect way to warm up your dinner table on busy weeknights or impress your loved ones with minimal effort.

The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of simple pantry staples—peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, and aromatic spices like garlic and ginger—to create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The slow cooker allows the chicken to slowly absorb the bold flavors, making it irresistibly tender and juicy. Pair it with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and downright delicious.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken step by step, discover tips for perfecting the recipe, and explore variations and serving ideas to make this dish truly your own. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

1. Bold and Unique Flavors: The creamy peanut butter sauce, infused with hints of garlic, ginger, and lime, creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
2. Set It and Forget It: The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to prepare dinner with minimal hands-on time.
3. Tender and Juicy Chicken: Cooking the chicken low and slow ensures it comes out perfectly tender and full of flavor.
4. Customizable: This recipe is highly versatile—you can adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: The dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers or weekly meal prep.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low setting) or 2-3 hours (high setting)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh or breast with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 390
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk (full-fat or light, depending on your preference)
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or lime juice)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Crushed peanuts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat it with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger in the bottom of the slow cooker. These aromatics will infuse the dish with flavor as it cooks.

Step 2: Season and Add the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer over the onion, garlic, and ginger in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, red curry paste, and chili flakes (if using). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a bit more soy sauce for saltiness, brown sugar for sweetness, or curry paste for spiciness.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

1. Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Shred or Slice the Chicken (Optional)

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
2. If desired, shred the chicken using two forks or slice it into thin strips. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the peanut chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the preferred choice for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender during slow cooking. However, chicken breasts are a leaner option and work just as well if cooked carefully.

Peanut Butter

Creamy peanut butter is the star ingredient, giving the dish its rich, nutty flavor. For the best results, use natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle tropical flavor to the sauce. Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer dish or light coconut milk for a lower-calorie version.

Red Curry Paste

Red curry paste, a staple in Thai cuisine, provides a spicy, aromatic base for the sauce. You can adjust the amount to control the heat level.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds umami and depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari or coconut aminos.

Technique Tips

• Layering Aromatics: Placing the onion, garlic, and ginger at the bottom of the slow cooker ensures they cook evenly and infuse the chicken with flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Check the chicken for doneness after 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. Overcooking can cause the chicken to become dry, especially if you’re using breasts.
• Whisk the Sauce: Whisking the peanut sauce ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker ensures a smooth, well-blended sauce.
• Shred for Easier Eating: Shredding the chicken allows it to absorb more sauce, making every bite flavorful and tender.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Rice Bowls: Serve the peanut chicken over rice with steamed broccoli, carrots, and edamame for a balanced meal.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the shredded chicken and sauce with cooked noodles and sautéed vegetables for a quick stir-fry.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce leaves as a low-carb wrap for the peanut chicken. Top with crushed peanuts and cilantro for added crunch.
• Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with the peanut chicken and top with cabbage slaw and lime crema for a Thai-inspired taco night.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrients.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let the sauce reduce slightly.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Peanut Chicken: Add extra red curry paste or a drizzle of Sriracha for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free alternative.
• Thai Basil Twist: Add fresh Thai basil leaves to the dish just before serving for an authentic flavor boost.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use light coconut milk to reduce the calorie and fat content of the sauce.
• Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb meal.
• Add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a versatile dish that works for a variety of occasions:

• Family Dinners: Serve it with rice and a side of steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• Potluck Parties: Bring the chicken to a gathering in the slow cooker and let guests serve themselves.
• Meal Prep: Divide the chicken and rice into meal prep containers for quick, ready-to-eat lunches throughout the week.

Special Equipment

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe, but smaller models will also work if you adjust the quantities.
• Whisk: For mixing the peanut sauce into a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds texture to the sauce and works just as well as creamy peanut butter.

2. Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to cook the aromatics, then pressure cook the chicken and sauce for 8 minutes on high pressure, followed by a quick release.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be added during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Using full-fat coconut milk and whisking the sauce thoroughly can help prevent separation.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator overnight, and cook them in the slow cooker the next day.

7. What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or unsweetened almond milk as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold, flavorful meals with minimal effort. The creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy the incredible flavors of Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken—your new favorite go-to recipe!

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