Save
This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and full of flavor without a lot of fuss. Tender chicken breasts slowly cook in a creamy peanut sauce with hints of garlic, soy, honey, and a gentle kick of chili. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld beautifully while you go about your day.
I first made this on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how effortless it was to have a delicious meal waiting for us. Now it’s a repeat request in my house when everyone wants something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: choose fresh or thawed for even cooking and moisture retention
- Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and a subtle crunch to contrast the creamy sauce
- Yellow onion: builds depth and rounds out the flavor base when cooked slow and low
- Garlic cloves: essential for that aromatic punch that lifts the whole dish
- Creamy peanut butter: use natural or minimally processed varieties for true flavor
- Chicken broth: adds moisture and balances the richness of the peanut butter
- Soy sauce: brings savory umami and saltiness, pick low-sodium if you prefer milder salt levels
- Honey: introduces a gentle sweetness that softens the chili and soy tang
- Sesame oil: a little goes a long way to add a toasty, nutty depth
- Chili garlic paste: for mild heat and umami complexity, adjust based on your spice tolerance
- Lime juice: stirred in at the end to lift and brighten the flavors
- Cilantro: fresh herbaceous notes to finish and garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the base:
- Add the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed for the chicken. This layering helps the vegetables cook evenly, releasing their sweetness and aromatics beneath the meat.
- Layer the chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts evenly on top of the vegetable bed to allow the flavors to seep into the meat while cooking and to ensure consistent heat distribution.
- Make the sauce:
- In a separate bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste until smooth and fully combined. This rich sauce will slowly soak into the chicken, imparting its complex flavors.
- Cook:
- Pour the peanut sauce gently over the chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is well coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Finish and serve:
- When the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove the lid and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. The lime juice adds brightness and balance, while the cilantro freshens the dish. Serve it warm over rice or noodles for a truly comforting meal.
Peanut butter is my favorite ingredient here because it adds richness and a nostalgic homemade feel, reminding me of meals shared with family around the table. One time, my kids enthusiastically asked for seconds before I could even finish plating, which made the slow cooker magic all the more rewarding.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. This dish also freezes exceptionally well—portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs can be used as a juicier alternative to breasts if you prefer richer meat. Coconut milk can replace chicken broth for a creamier, slightly sweeter sauce with a subtle coconut flavor. If you cannot find chili garlic paste, a mix of minced fresh chili and a touch of garlic powder works fine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles to soak up every bit of the peanut sauce. Add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side for a fresh crunch that complements the creamy sauce. Garnish with extra chopped peanuts or a drizzle of sriracha for an added layer of texture and heat.
This recipe combines ease and flavor perfectly, making weeknight dinners effortless yet memorable. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide tender texture and cook well in slow cooking without drying out.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but creamy versions create a smoother sauce.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The chili garlic paste adds a mild heat that complements the sweetness of honey and richness of peanut butter.
- → Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?
While slow cooking enhances melding of flavors, a low simmer on the stovetop with frequent stirring can work as an alternative.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh greens to balance the rich sauce.