Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Healthy and flavorful, Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Thai cuisine right to your dinner table. This recipe features a creamy peanut coconut milk sauce combined with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, this dish stands out as a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a bit of whisking and chopping, you can set this meal up in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy coconut milk, spicy red curry paste, and savory ginger creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or even switch up the protein for variety.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Just let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you go about your day.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from veggies and lean protein, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand to streamline your preparation process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Perfect for creating tender meats and infusing flavors over hours of cooking without constant supervision.
• Whisk: Essential for blending sauces smoothly, ensuring that the peanut butter dissolves completely into the coconut milk.
• Cutting board & knife: A good quality cutting board and sharp knife make chopping vegetables quick and safe.

Ingredients

Healthy slow cooker Thai peanut chicken recipe made with a simple, delicious Thai peanut coconut milk sauce, veggies, and juicy chicken.

For the Sauce

• 2 cans light coconut milk
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the Main Dish

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 small butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
• 2 large red bell peppers (cored and thinly sliced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced (about 3 cups))
• 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)

For Serving

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 lime)
• Prepared brown rice (for serving)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for serving)

How to Make Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, whisk together:
1. The two cans of light coconut milk.
2. The peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add in the red curry paste, fish sauce, coconut sugar, ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

Next,
1. Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker.
2. Incorporate the butternut squash, sliced bell peppers, and onion.
3. Stir gently to coat all ingredients with the sauce mixture.

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker:
– Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 4: Finish Up Before Serving

About thirty minutes before serving:
1. Add in the thawed peas.
2. Just before serving, stir in freshly squeezed lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken over prepared brown rice. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness!

Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great serving suggestions:

With Rice

• Brown Rice: A hearty option that absorbs the delicious peanut sauce.
• Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, perfect for soaking up the flavors.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that adds a nice crunch.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor and color.
• Sliced Green Onions: Provides a mild onion taste that complements the dish.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze over for an extra zesty kick.

Served in Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large romaine leaves to create fresh, crunchy wraps filled with chicken and veggies.
• Whole Wheat Tortillas: Roll up the chicken mixture for a quick, handheld meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Bold Flavoring: Adjust the amount of red curry paste based on your spice preference for a more robust flavor.
• Even Cooking: Cut chicken pieces into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly throughout the slow cooking process.
• Add Freshness Last: Incorporate peas and lime juice just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and fresh taste.
• Thickening Sauce Option: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Garnishing Ideas: Consider adding crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed for a healthy, crunchy complement that balances the dish’s richness.
2. Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs that adds a crisp contrast.
3. Quinoa Salad: Fluffy quinoa mixed with veggies offers a nutritious alternative full of protein.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and earthy, they pair wonderfully with the spicy peanut sauce.
5. Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet treat that contrasts nicely with savory flavors; perfect for dessert!
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh and light, these rolls add a delightful crunch when served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors. Avoiding these mistakes will help you create a delicious dish.

• Skipping the whisking: Ensure you whisk together the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker. This prevents clumps and ensures even flavor distribution.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Only fill your slow cooker to about two-thirds full. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and affect the texture of your chicken.
• Not cutting veggies uniformly: Cut all vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. Unevenly sized pieces may result in some being overcooked while others are undercooked.
• Ignoring cooking times: Pay attention to the recommended cooking times for either high or low settings. Cooking too long can dry out the chicken, while not cooking enough may leave it underdone.
• Forgetting to add lime juice at the end: Adding lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the entire dish!
• Neglecting garnishes: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color. Always remember to sprinkle it on top before serving for an appealing final touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into individual portions for easier thawing and reheating.
• Make sure to leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add chicken with a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken?

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a savory dish made with chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk and peanut butter sauce, combined with fresh vegetables.

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb according to your preference.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken?

The spiciness can vary based on how much red curry paste you use. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors!

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various proteins and veggies based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you’ll appreciate its rich flavors and ease of preparation!