There’s something incredible about the smoky aroma of grilled chicken mingling with the rich scent of peanut sauce wafting through my kitchen. It takes me back to that one lovely evening when I whipped up this Thai Chicken Satay with Cold Sesame Noodles, transforming an ordinary weeknight into a culinary escape. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s an adventure that brings vibrant Thai flavors to your table in under 30 minutes.
Imagine tender, marinated chicken thighs skewered and grilled to perfection, paired with a creamy peanut sauce that strikes a delightful balance between savory and sweet. The cold sesame noodles serve as the perfect companion, their refreshing crunch brightened by colorful veggies, inviting you to dig in. Whether you’re a busy parent looking to impress or a culinary enthusiast seeking quick inspiration, this dish is your solution—simple, delicious, and bound to please any crowd. Join me in exploring this quick yet flavorful dinner that promises to elevate your weeknight meals!
Why will you love Chicken Satay?
Irresistible Taste: The Chicken Satay’s smoky, grilled flavor combined with the creamy, nutty peanut sauce creates a delightful explosion of taste that’s both comforting and exotic.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this stunning dish, making it perfect for a busy weekday dinner.
Protein-Packed: Chicken thighs provide a hearty source of protein that keeps you satisfied without compromising on taste.
Versatile Pairing: Serve the chicken satay with cold sesame noodles or mix in your favorite seasonal veggies for a fresh twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this dish is bound to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more!
Chicken Satay Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess to tenderize the chicken and enrich the sauce; consider light coconut milk for a healthier option.
- Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful, these are perfect for grilling; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner choice.
- Curry Powder – Infuses the chicken with warmth; try garam masala for a unique twist.
- Thai Red Curry Paste – Enhances the depth of flavor; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
- Sugar – Balances savory and sweet notes in the marinade; brown sugar is recommended, but honey is a great alternative.
- Cooking Oil – Prevents sticking while grilling; consider using olive or sesame oil for added flavor.
For the Peanut Sauce
- Creamy Peanut Butter – The star ingredient that creates a rich, nutty flavor; substitute with almond or sunflower butter for nut allergies.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the sauce’s sweetness; rice vinegar can be a suitable replacement.
- Sweet Soy Sauce – Adds a sweet-savory layer; mix regular soy sauce with sugar as a quick substitute.
- Brown Sugar – Delivers additional sweetness; coconut sugar works well as an alternative.
- Garlic and Ginger – Enhances the overall flavor profile; store-bought ginger paste can replace fresh ginger if you’re in a hurry.
For the Noodles
- Sesame Paste or Tahini – Provides a nutty richness to the cold sesame noodles.
- Lo Mein (or Udon/Spaghetti) – The base for your cold noodles; gluten-free noodles are an excellent option if needed.
- Cucumber, Carrots, Green Onions, Cilantro, Peanuts – Fresh toppings add crunch and vibrant flavor; swap in seasonal veggies or your favorite nuts for variety.
This incredible Chicken Satay dish truly brings Thai flavors to life in just 30 minutes!
How to Make Chicken Satay with Cold Sesame Noodles
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, curry powder, Thai red curry paste, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of coconut milk. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes for optimal flavor.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, ensuring they are secure and evenly spaced for grilling.
- Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and grill the skewers for 3 minutes on each side. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside and has a nice char.
- Make Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together the remaining coconut milk and peanut sauce ingredients. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Prepare Noodles: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame noodles sauce ingredients, adjusting the consistency with water as needed until you reach your desired thickness.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the noodles, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine: Toss the cooled noodles with the sauce and serve topped with the grilled chicken, fresh veggies, peanuts, and herbs for a vibrant finish.
Optional: Garnish with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Chicken Satay with Cold Sesame Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Alternatively, prepare the peanut sauce and sesame noodle sauce up to 3 days before serving; just refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. To keep the noodles from sticking, rinse them with cold water after cooking and toss them in a bit of oil if preparing in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated chicken for about 6 minutes until cooked through, toss the noodles with the sauce, and garnish with veggies for a quick yet flavorful family meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Chicken Satay?
Elevate your Thai-inspired dinner with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures, turning a simple meal into a festive feast.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad introduces a tangy crunch that beautifully contrasts the richness of the peanut sauce, making every bite invigorating.
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, aromatic rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up the luscious peanut sauce for a wholesome, satisfying complement to your dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky depth that enhances the chicken’s flavors, offering a colorful and nutritious side.
- Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet dessert surprises your palate with its creamy coconut rice and ripe mango slices, rounding off the meal with a delightful sweet note.
- Spicy Thai Noodle Salad: The zesty dressing will wake up your taste buds, and it pairs well with chicken satay, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Thai Iced Tea: Cool and creamy, this drink helps balance the dish’s spices while adding a unique sweetness that complements the meal perfectly.
- Peanut Butter Cookies: Ending on a sweet note, these cookies echo the flavors of the main dish, creating a delightful thematic dining experience that leaves everyone satisfied.
- Lime Wedges: Bright and zesty, a squeeze of lime on the chicken enhances freshness and elevates the entire dish with a burst of citrusy goodness.
Expert Tips for Chicken Satay
- Maximize Flavor: Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes, but for even richer flavor, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator.
- Soak Skewers: Prevent wooden skewers from burning by soaking them in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken.
- Perfect Peanut Sauce: Adjust the thickness of the peanut sauce by slowly adding warm water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce at the end of cooking; balance seasoning with a pinch of sugar or a splash of vinegar as needed for your chicken satay.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking on the grill, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
Chicken Satay Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chicken Satay experience with these delightful twists that elevate flavor and texture.
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Spicy Twist: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or more Thai red curry paste to kick up the heat in both the chicken marinade and peanut sauce. Spice lovers will rejoice!
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Seafood Delight: Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a seafood variation that’s equally satisfying. Marinate the shrimp for a brief time to absorb those exciting flavors.
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Crunchy Veggies: Toss fresh bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded cabbage into your cold sesame noodles for extra crunch and vibrant color. This not only adds nutrition but also makes your dish pop!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint in your cold noodle dish. They introduce a refreshing note that beautifully complements the rich peanut sauce.
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Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini in the peanut sauce to make a nut-free version that’s just as creamy and delicious.
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Lime Zest Boost: Incorporate the zest of a lime into the peanut sauce for a zesty kick. The bright citrus flavor elevates the dish, making each bite feel like a sunny spring day.
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Coconut Noodle Upgrade: Replace traditional noodles with brown rice noodles for a gluten-free and healthier alternative. They pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying.
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Sweet Heat: Add a dash of honey or maple syrup to the peanut sauce for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly. This added depth will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Satay
Fridge: Store leftover chicken satay and cold sesame noodles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken satay in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat chicken skewers in the skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Reheat noodles in the microwave or in a pan with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Preparation Tips: Consider marinating chicken and preparing noodles in advance to save time on busy weeknights when you’d like to enjoy this delicious chicken satay!
Chicken Satay with Cold Sesame Noodles Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump and well-marbled with fat for optimal flavor and juiciness. The skin should be smooth, and the meat should be a rich pink color without any dark spots or discoloration. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts are a good substitute, just keep in mind they may be less juicy.
How should I store leftover chicken satay and noodles?
Very! To maintain the best quality, store leftover chicken satay and cold sesame noodles separately in airtight containers. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps each component retain its texture and flavor, preventing the noodles from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze the chicken satay? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your chicken satay, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, place the cooked chicken skewer in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
What if my peanut sauce is too thick?
Sometimes this happens, but don’t worry! If your peanut sauce is too thick, gradually add warm water, a tablespoon at a time, while whisking until you reach your desired consistency. If it becomes too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it back up while constantly stirring.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies, you can easily substitute the creamy peanut butter with sunbutter or tahini for a similar creamy texture without the nuts. Always check your soy sauce and other pre-made condiments for gluten if you’re cooking gluten-free, or opt for tamari as a safe alternative.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for up to overnight will enhance the flavors immensely. Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator to ensure freshness and reduce the risk of bacteria. The longer you marinate, the more the spices and coconut milk will infuse the chicken, making it even more delicious.
Delicious Chicken Satay with Cool Sesame Noodles in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, curry powder, Thai red curry paste, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of coconut milk. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes for optimal flavor.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, ensuring they are secure and evenly spaced for grilling.
- Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and grill the skewers for 3 minutes on each side until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Make Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together the remaining coconut milk and peanut sauce ingredients. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth.
- Prepare Noodles: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame noodles sauce ingredients, adjusting the consistency with water.
- Cook Noodles: Bring salted water to a boil, add noodles, and cook until al dente.
- Combine: Toss the cooled noodles with the sauce and serve topped with the grilled chicken, fresh veggies, peanuts, and herbs.