Sizzling Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe for Lazy Evenings

Comfort meets convenience in this mouthwatering peanut chicken slow cooker delight that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

Fragrant spices and creamy peanut sauce meld together, creating a dish that whispers of far-off culinary adventures.

Each tender bite tells a story of rich, complex flavors waiting to unfold.

Southwest Asian influences dance through this simple yet sophisticated meal, making weeknight cooking feel like a gourmet experience.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction with this one-pot wonder that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Protein-packed and incredibly satisfying, you’ll find yourself craving this recipe again and again.

Prepare to be amazed by how easily deliciousness comes together in your trusty slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Full of Warmth

• Dump all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic with minimal hands-on preparation.
• Combines rich, creamy peanut butter with zesty ginger and garlic for a taste adventure that'll make your taste buds dance.
• Perfect for busy families, meal prep warriors, and anyone craving a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Satisfies both kids and adults with its creamy, slightly spicy sauce and tender, shreddable chicken that's sure to become a household favorite.

Peanut Chicken Ingredients for Bold Flavor

• Chicken Thighs: A tender and flavorful cut of meat that becomes incredibly soft when slow-cooked and absorbs the rich sauce perfectly.

• Peanut Butter, Coconut Milk: Creamy base that creates a rich and smooth sauce with nutty and tropical undertones.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth of flavor and a savory umami element to the sauce.
• Honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the other bold flavors.

• Garlic, Ginger: Classic flavor-boosting ingredients that add warmth and complexity to the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat and spicy kick to the overall flavor profile.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the chicken.

• Green Onions, Crushed Peanuts: Fresh and crunchy toppings that add texture and visual appeal to the finished dish.

• Rice, Noodles: Ideal base for serving the saucy, tender chicken.

Getting Started on Peanut Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Grab your chicken thighs and give them a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Gently place these seasoned beauties into your slow cooker, creating a cozy base for the delicious meal ahead.

Step 2: Whip Up the Magical Peanut Sauce

• Creamy peanut butter
• Silky coconut milk
• Savory soy sauce
• Golden honey
• Minced garlic
• Freshly grated ginger
• Spicy red pepper flakes

Whisk everything together until the sauce becomes smooth and dreamy, with no lumps in sight.

Step 3: Create Flavor Magic

Pour the luscious peanut sauce directly over the chicken, making sure every inch gets a delicious coating.

Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce evenly, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken becomes incredibly tender and can be easily shredded.

Step 5: Transform and Serve

Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the rich, creamy sauce.

Serve this heavenly creation over fluffy rice or tender noodles.

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and a handful of crushed peanuts for an extra crunch that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Tips to Elevate Peanut Chicken in the Slow Cooker

• Opt for skinless chicken thighs to reduce excess fat while maintaining rich, juicy flavor.
• Modify red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance, starting with less and adding gradually for perfect warmth.
• Whisk peanut sauce ingredients thoroughly to ensure smooth, consistent texture without clumping.
• Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a completely gluten-free meal that doesn't compromise taste.

Reheating Peanut Chicken Without Losing Taste

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer chicken to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for 2-3 months. Label with date and contents for easy tracking.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons water to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Pour chicken into skillet, add splash of broth or water. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain sauce consistency.

Satisfying Pairings for Peanut Chicken Dinners

• Taste-Enhancing Wine Pairing: Select a crisp Riesling with slight sweetness to complement the rich, nutty peanut sauce and balance the spicy red pepper flakes.
• Refreshing Beverage Match: Brew a cold Thai iced tea, whose creamy sweetness perfectly harmonizes with the peanut chicken's complex flavor profile.
• Ideal Rice Accompaniment: Prepare coconut jasmine rice to mirror the coconut milk in the sauce and provide a smooth, aromatic base for the shredded chicken.
• Zesty Side Salad: Toss a quick cucumber and cilantro salad with lime dressing to add bright, fresh notes that cut through the dish's richness.

Peanut Chicken Made in Different Ways

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe completely gluten-free, maintaining the same rich flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Already dairy-free, this recipe naturally accommodates those avoiding dairy products, making it a versatile meal choice.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken thighs with firm tofu or jackfruit, adjusting cooking time to prevent overcooking and preserve the tender texture.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice, reducing carbohydrate content while keeping the delicious peanut sauce intact.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they tend to dry out faster. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and reduce cooking time by 1-2 hours to prevent overcooking.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting them. For more heat, add additional red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce.

• Do I need to brown the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

No, you can add the raw, seasoned chicken directly to the slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process will ensure the chicken becomes tender and flavorful.

• Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is already dairy-free. The coconut milk provides creaminess without using dairy, making it suitable for those with dairy restrictions.

Peanut Chicken in the Slow Cooker Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent peanut chicken simmers with aromatic spices, creating a Malaysian-inspired comfort dish that whisks home cooks straight to Southeast Asian culinary paradise. Creamy, tender meat melts in your mouth, inviting warm conversations and delightful shared moments around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 lbs (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Sauce Base:

• 1 cup (240 ml) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) honey

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Crushed peanuts

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Instructions

1. Generously season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, positioning them evenly across the slow cooker base.
2. Create a velvety sauce by thoroughly whisking peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until completely smooth and well-integrated.
3. Drench the chicken completely with the prepared peanut sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated and saturated.
4. Set slow cooker to low temperature and allow chicken to simmer for 6-8 hours, or alternatively use high temperature for 3-4 hours, cooking until meat becomes exceptionally tender and reaches safe internal temperature.
5. Utilize two forks to meticulously shred the chicken, incorporating it back into the rich, fragrant sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
6. Transfer the succulent peanut chicken over steamed rice or tender noodles, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions and crunchy crushed peanuts for textural contrast and visual appeal.

Notes

• Boost chicken tenderness by choosing bone-in thighs, which remain juicier during slow cooking compared to boneless cuts.
• Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium soy sauce and controlling salt levels during seasoning for heart-healthy preparation.
• Enhance protein variety by substituting chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the rich peanut sauce flavor.
• Elevate texture and nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or spinach during the last hour of cooking, introducing extra vegetables without compromising the dish’s creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (on high) or 8 hours (on low)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 685
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 37 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg