Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken (Printable)
Tender chicken in creamy peanut sauce with vegetables. Minimal prep, rich flavors.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1.3 pounds)
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 1 yellow onion, sliced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
08 - 1 medium carrot, sliced
→ Peanut Sauce
09 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
10 - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
11 - 1/4 cup chicken broth
12 - 2 tablespoons honey
13 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
15 - 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
16 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
→ Garnishes
17 - 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts
18 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
19 - Fresh lime wedges
20 - Steamed jasmine rice (for serving)
# Directions:
01 - Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
02 - Arrange sliced bell pepper, onion, carrot, garlic, and ginger in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place seasoned chicken thighs directly on top of the vegetable bed.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, honey, rice vinegar, lime juice, sriracha if desired, and sesame oil. Whisk vigorously until completely smooth and well incorporated.
04 - Pour the prepared peanut sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring all pieces are coated.
05 - Cover with the lid and cook on low setting for 5 hours until chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
06 - Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and shred using two forks or cut into large chunks. Stir the sauce in the slow cooker well to combine flavors, return the chicken, and toss to coat thoroughly.
07 - Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, garnished generously with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and additional lime wedges for squeezing.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get that takeout flavor without any complicated techniques or last-minute stress
- The sauce develops this incredible depth while you barely lift a finger
02 -
- The sauce will look separated at first but whisk vigorously and it will come together beautifully
- Stir the sauce halfway through cooking if you are home to prevent any sticking around the edges
03 -
- Use natural peanut butter that requires stirring for the best flavor and texture
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly