Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker and Ingredients

1. Prep the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of non-stick cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can cut the chicken into large chunks before adding it to the slow cooker, but leaving it whole works well as the meat will become very tender and easy to shred.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar (or lime juice), honey, garlic, ginger, and red curry paste. Whisk until smooth and well-blended. The sauce may look slightly thick, but it will thin out as it heats in the slow cooker.
2. Adjust for Spice: Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level to your preference. If you want more heat, add red pepper flakes or an additional spoonful of red curry paste or Sriracha.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the peanut sauce over the top, ensuring that all of the chicken is covered. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors as it cooks.
2. Stir if Necessary: Gently stir to coat the chicken in the sauce if needed, but avoid overmixing, as it’s fine for the chicken to be partially submerged.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Choose Cooking Time: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or set it to high for 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded with a fork when done.
2. Check for Doneness: The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and can be easily pulled apart.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Stir

1. Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Shredding the chicken allows it to fully absorb the peanut sauce, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
2. Stir Everything Together: Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Prepare the Sides: While the chicken finishes, prepare your choice of sides, such as jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles.
2. Garnish: Serve the peanut chicken over rice or noodles and garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and green onions. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of acidity that brightens the dish.