Creamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, hands-off meal ready when you return home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In the slow cooker, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Step 2: Add the chicken breasts, turning them to coat evenly with the peanut sauce mixture.
- Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Step 4: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, then stir it back into the sauce before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or a tablespoon of honey to the sauce before cooking.
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the slow cooker for a complete meal.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in a saucepan and simmer the chicken on low heat until tender, about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Is peanut butter the only nut butter that works?
Peanut butter is traditional here, but you can substitute almond or cashew butter for a different flavor, keeping in mind it will change the taste slightly.
PrintCreamy Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe
This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken simmered in a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce with savory soy and spices, perfect for a hands-off dinner that’s both hearty and comforting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3.5 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American with Asian inspired flavors
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over the top, making sure each piece is coated.
- Cook until tender: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through, easily shredding with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, gently stir the sauce to combine with the chicken, then serve over rice or noodles and garnish with fresh herbs or chopped peanuts if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for more flavorful and juicy results; breasts work fine but may be less tender.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by modifying honey and soy sauce quantities to taste.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the slow cooker for a more complete meal.
- If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of water or chicken broth before serving.
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, peanut chicken, easy dinner, crockpot meal, creamy peanut sauce, healthy chicken recipe
