Easy Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

Ben Carraoli

Easy Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

If you're after a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that’s both quick and family-friendly, this peanut butter chicken recipe is for you. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly spicy—thanks to a rich, sticky sauce that clings to tender chicken thighs. Paired with noodles and veggies, it makes the perfect all-in-one dish.

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Prep Time 1 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1 45

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Calories: 720

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

4 tbsp peanut butter – Creamy peanut butter gives the sauce its rich nutty base. Avoid natural varieties with no stabilizers, as they may split when cooked.
2 tbsp honey – Adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize into a sticky glaze.
4 tbsp tamari or soy sauce – Tamari is a gluten-free option but either adds depth and umami to balance the sweetness.
3 cloves garlic grated – Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a deep, savory flavor.
1 tbsp grated ginger – Brings a subtle heat and zing that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
2 tbsp sesame oil – Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 tbsp sriracha optional – For a mild kick of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
6 –8 skinless chicken thighs – Boneless skinless thighs stay juicy and soak up all the marinade goodness. Avoid chicken breast—it dries out quickly.
Noodles and vegetables – Serve with your favorite noodles and sautéed or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Chopped spring onion fresh coriander, and sesame seeds – These garnishes add crunch, color, and freshness to finish the dish.

Method

In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, honey, tamari or soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined. It should be thick but pourable, with a deep savory aroma and just the right balance of sweet and salty.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them fully with the marinade. Make sure every piece is well covered. Once coated, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. This helps the flavors soak deep into the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful after baking.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the marinated chicken thighs into an oven-proof dish and cover it tightly with a lid or foil. Bake for 20 minutes covered. Then, remove the lid, stir the sauce gently, and return the dish to the oven uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and the sauce golden and sticky.
Once done, serve the chicken hot with cooked noodles and steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Spoon over some of that sticky sauce from the bottom of the dish—it’s packed with flavor. Sprinkle with chopped spring onion, coriander leaves, and sesame seeds just before serving for a fresh, crunchy finish.