Peanut Butter Chicken For Grilling
Juicy grilled chicken coated in a flavorful peanut butter marinade with a spicy kick, perfect for summer barbecues and those who love bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
- Mix marinade by stirring hot water into a small bowl with peanut butter until combined.
- Add chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper; mix well.
- Place chicken in a plastic bag in a shallow bowl.
- Pour marinade over the chicken and seal the bag, turning to coat all pieces.
- Chill for 12 to 24 hours.
- Drain off marinade and discard.
- Grill chicken over medium hot coals for 35 to 45 minutes until done.
- Serve with salsa, fresh fruit, or bottled fruit salsa.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken for the full 24 hours. If you're short on time, a quick 2-hour soak can still impart good taste. If you prefer a little sweetness, substitute honey for some of the chili sauce. This recipe can also work well with tofu for a vegetarian option, making it versatile for various diets.
Serving Suggestions
This Peanut Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with fresh salsa or a fruit salsa for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. It also complements Asian-inspired sides, like steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad, making it a great option for summer barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or on a grill or skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Chicken For Grilling contains roughly 140 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2128mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. They are more forgiving if slightly overcooked and will still absorb the marinade's flavors well. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I serve with Peanut Butter Chicken?
Peanut Butter Chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For a unique twist, try pairing it with grilled pineapple or a mango salsa to complement the peanut sauce.
Is it possible to grill the chicken without marinating?
While marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, you can grill the chicken without it. Simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a bit of soy sauce before grilling. However, the marinade adds a depth of flavor that is hard to achieve otherwise.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).