Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

Dive into the comforting taste of Crockpot Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken. A simple dinner delight that combines the sweet, tangy flavors you love in the crockpot. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a sticky-sweet Asian-inspired sauce, all made right in your crockpot.

Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken

This Peanut Butter Chicken recipe takes just minutes to prepare, setting you up for a fuss-free dinner where the crockpot does all the work. The flavors meld together to create a meal that's not just easy, but absolutely incredible!

I'm all about that peanut butter life—it makes everything better, from this peanut butter chicken recipe to Thai-inspired dishes like this Thai Coconut Chicken! There's just something about the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter that transforms a meal into a comforting delight. Whether it's swirled into a sauce or spread on toast, peanut butter never fails to add a touch of yum to my day.

Quick Crockpot Chicken Dinner

I love a quick Asian chicken recipe I can prepare and serve with rice like this teriyaki chicken and sweet chili chicken! Plus if you like to make everything ahead of time I always use my rice maker which is pricey but makes the best rice with a timer. I've had it for 10 years and use it weekly.

What Type of Chicken to Use for Chicken with Peanut Butter

For this peanut butter chicken recipe, I recommend using chicken thighs because they provide more flavor and tend to be juicier and more tender after slow cooking. Chicken thighs also hold up better to the low and slow heat of a crockpot, absorbing all the rich, sticky sauce beautifully without drying out. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as these cuts can become dry if overcooked.

What Type of Peanut Butter To Use For This Recipe

For this recipe, using smooth peanut butter is ideal as it blends seamlessly into the sauce, creating a creamy and consistent texture. Smooth peanut butter will be distributed more evenly, ensuring each bite of chicken is deliciously coated. Opt for a natural or low-sugar variety if you prefer less sweetness, which allows you to better control the overall flavor of the dish.

If you're a fan of a bit more texture in your dishes, you can certainly use chunky peanut butter in this recipe. Chunky peanut butter will add little bits of peanuts throughout the sauce, providing a pleasant crunch with each bite. This can enhance the sensory experience of the dish, offering a contrast to the tenderness of the slow-cooked chicken. Just be mindful that the peanuts in chunky peanut butter might not distribute as evenly as smooth peanut butter, so some bites might be nuttier than others.

Why You Will Love This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

• Super easy to make: Just mix the sauce, toss in the chicken, set it, and forget it!
• Unbelievably tasty: The sweet, tangy sauce makes the chicken irresistibly sticky and delicious.
• Perfect for any night: Whether it's a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this dish fits right in.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust the sweetness or swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed For Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken

• Soy sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor, giving the chicken a savory base.
• Ketchup: Provides sweetness and tanginess, enhancing the sauce's rich color and texture.
• Peanut butter: Contributes creaminess and a slight nutty taste, thickening the sauce and making it stick to the chicken.
• Brown sugar: Offers a sweet caramel note, balancing the savory elements and helping to create a sticky glaze.
• Oil: Helps combine the sauce ingredients smoothly and prevents the chicken from sticking to the crockpot.
• Chicken thighs: Ideal for slow cooking, they stay juicy and tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce perfectly.

How To Make Crockpot Peanut Butter Chicken

1. Make the Sauce: Start by adding the oil, soy sauce, ketchup, peanut butter, and brown sugar directly into your crockpot. This not only saves dishes but ensures that every bit of flavor is captured right where you'll cook your chicken.
2. Combine Ingredients: Stir these ingredients well to create a smooth, cohesive sauce. The peanut butter will melt into the mix, providing a creamy texture that's irresistible.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the crockpot. Toss them gently in the sauce to ensure they are thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for getting that sticky, flavorful coating on every piece.
4. Slow Cook: Set your crockpot to low and let the chicken cook for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, making it tender and juicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, it's ready to be served.

Side Dishes to Go With This Crockpot Chicken Recipe

This sticky chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli makes a great side, adding a crisp, healthy balance to the meal.
• Salad: A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Noodles: For a heartier meal, serve the sticky chicken over a bed of noodles.

Crockpot Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken is more than just a meal; it's a hassle-free way to bring the family together. Enjoy the delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors that this dish offers. Let your crockpot do the work while you unwind. Dinner is served – simple, satisfying, and scrumptious!

How To Store Peanut Butter Chicken

You can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Making this dish perfect for meal prep or enjoying it again later.

Easy Crockpot Meal

This Crockpot Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken is not only great as leftovers, keeping well for meal prep throughout the week, but it's also a budget-friendly dinner option. Its ability to be stored and reheated easily means you can enjoy a delicious, low-cost meal without the need for daily cooking.

Plus, the ingredients are simple and affordable, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning for a busy week ahead or just need a tasty dinner solution, this recipe is a surefire way to keep both your belly and wallet full.