Picture this: a Sunday afternoon spent in your kitchen, the comforting scent of garlic mingling with the nuttiness of peanut butter wafting through the air. It’s the perfect backdrop for gathering around the table with friends or family, and what better way to pull everyone together than with a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious? Enter my Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken—an effortless recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal with just a few minutes of prep.
I came up with this dish after realizing that weeknight dinners don’t have to be a chore. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this recipe is a joy to whip up and perfect for those busy days when you crave something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen. Trust me, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters, making it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into a flavor-packed journey you won’t forget!
Why you’ll love Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?
Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, requiring just 5 minutes of prep time before you set your slow cooker and forget about it!
Rich, Bold Flavors: The combination of creamy peanut butter, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice create a deliciously irresistible sauce that your taste buds will adore.
Nutrient-Packed: With 46 grams of protein and healthy fats, this dish keeps you full and satisfied—perfect for those bustling weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful taste and vibrant colors, this dish will win over even the pickiest eaters, making it great for family meals or sharing with friends.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fun twist! This recipe can easily adapt to whatever mood you’re in.
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secret to a delightful meal with these simple ingredients!
For the Chicken
• 1.5 lb chicken breasts – The backbone of this dish, providing lean protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
For the Veggies
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds a sweet crunch that enhances the overall texture of your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken.
• 1/2 large yellow onion, diced – Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped – Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic essence that elevates the taste.
For the Sauce
• 1/2 cup peanut butter, creamy – Gives the dish its rich, nutty base; natural peanut butter works well too for fewer additives!
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – Keeps the chicken tender and juicy, while ensuring the sauce has the right consistency.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor kick that complements the peanut butter.
• 1 tbsp honey – Provides a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory notes perfectly.
• 1 tsp sesame oil – An aromatic oil that brings an extra layer of flavor and authenticity.
• 1 tsp chili garlic paste – For just the right amount of heat to wake up your taste buds!
• 1 tbsp lime juice – Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the peanut butter.
For Garnish
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbal note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
-
Layer the Veggies: Start by adding the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken to cook on top.
-
Whisk the Sauce: In a bowl or glass measuring cup, combine the creamy peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
-
Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well coated. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
-
Finish Up: Once cooked, carefully remove the lid and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a fun twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the peanut butter sauce (peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste) and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. This will save you precious time when it’s time to cook! When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the veggies, pour the sauce over the chicken, and cook as directed. This make-ahead strategy ensures your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken remains just as delicious, ready to impress with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that complement the tantalizing flavors of this easy, slow-cooked delight.
-
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The subtle sweetness of jasmine rice absorbs the rich peanut sauce perfectly, creating a harmonious blend on your plate.
-
Crunchy Cabbage Slaw: Fresh, crunchy slaw drenched in a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, balancing flavors delightfully.
-
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a nutritious pop of color and a crisp texture, making it a lovely companion to the tender chicken.
-
Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles deliver comfort and rich flavor, wrapping around each bite of peanut chicken elegantly while satisfying your carb cravings.
-
Mango Salad: This fruity salad bursts with sweetness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish, and adding a tropical twist.
-
Chilled Coconut Water: Cool and hydrating, coconut water complements the flavors while soothing your palate after each savory bite of chicken.
-
Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lime sorbet offers a light, zesty finish, cleansing your palate after the rich meal and leaving you satisfied.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in individual portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy the meal again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture and stir until warmed.
Avoid Spoilage: Always ensure the dish is cooled to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
-
Chop Evenly: Make sure to dice your vegetables uniformly. This ensures they cook evenly, providing a consistent texture in your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken.
-
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid packing the slow cooker too tightly. This helps the chicken cook properly without steaming, allowing for a tender, flavorful end result.
-
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili garlic paste. Remember, you can always add more later, but it’s hard to take spice out once it’s added!
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice make a world of difference! They enhance the overall flavor and add vibrancy to your meal.
-
Save Leftovers: This peanut chicken makes great leftovers. Store it in an airtight container, and it will stay delicious for up to three days—perfect for quick lunches!
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations for a unique twist on your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add more chili garlic paste or sliced fresh jalapeños to crank up the heat level.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped carrots or snap peas for added texture and nutrition. They’ll bring a lovely crunch to each bite!
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this meal gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Frozen Chicken: You can start with frozen chicken breasts—simply add an extra hour of cooking time on low for perfectly tender results.
- Texture Twist: Top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds just before serving to give an extra layer of crunch.
- Coconut Milk: For a creamier sauce, swap half of the chicken broth with coconut milk, adding a tropical twist to the flavor profile.
- Zesty Version: Incorporate zest from a lime or lemon to the sauce for a refreshing, bright flavor burst!
Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a pink hue without any dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a mild scent. For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they remain tender and soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
What is the best way to store leftover Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?
To store your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing its deliciousness. When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop—just ensure it’s heated through!
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this dish! Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, stir it on medium heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
What if the chicken turns out dry or tough?
Very! If your chicken ends up a bit dry, it might have cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For next time, consider reducing the cook time, keeping an eye on your slow cooker, and making sure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Sure thing! If you’re serving someone with allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce, which contains gluten. You can easily swap it for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, if anyone’s peanut-allergic, consider using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative, but keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly in the slow cooker?
To check if your chicken is done, I recommend using a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, you can shred the chicken with two forks; if it falls apart easily, it’s perfectly cooked. After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep moisture locked in!
Delicious Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer the Veggies: Add the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they're well coated. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours.
- Finish Up: Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving warm.