Name: Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488599H25M31S
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1.5 lb chicken breasts; 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1/2 large yellow onion (diced); 2 garlic cloves (chopped); 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp chili garlic paste; Juice of 1 lime

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Enjoy mouthwatering Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken for hands-off weeknight meals! With only 5 minutes of prep time and drenched in a Thai-inspired peanut sauce, it’s an easy chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor and protein. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is suitable for various occasions. The standout qualities of this recipe include its rich flavors, simplicity, and the ability to please even picky eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work.
Flavorful Sauce: The creamy peanut sauce infused with garlic and spices transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish.
Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from peanut butter, this recipe supports a balanced diet.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as is—suitable for any side dish you love!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking while ensuring your chicken stays tender and juicy.
Cutting board: Essential for safely chopping your vegetables without damaging your countertops.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your sauce ingredients before pouring them over the chicken.
Whisk: An important tool to thoroughly mix the peanut butter and other sauce ingredients to create a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lb chicken breasts
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1/2 large yellow onion (diced)
2 garlic cloves (chopped)

For the Sauce

1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or use crunchy, but with minimal ingredients)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp chili garlic paste
1 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preparing your vegetables and chicken. Dice the red bell pepper, onion, and chop the garlic cloves. Set them aside for later.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and chopped garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts on top so they can soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the following ingredients until well blended:
Peanut butter
Chicken broth
Soy sauce
Honey
Sesame oil
Chili garlic paste

Step 4: Cook It Up!

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in your slow cooker. Cover with a lid and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–5 hours until fully cooked.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, remove the lid from your slow cooker. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro just before serving to add freshness. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Rice

Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice complements the rich peanut sauce beautifully.
Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the savory sauce well.

With Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant color and crunch while soaking up the flavors.
Stir-Fried Snow Peas: Quick-cooked to retain their crispness, these peas are a fresh addition.
Sautéed Bok Choy: This leafy green provides a mild taste that balances the dish.

Topped with Garnishes

Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds brightness and enhances the Thai-inspired flavor profile.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds freshness and acidity.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken can make a huge difference in flavor and texture. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken will elevate the overall taste of your dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili garlic paste to suit your preferred spice level.
Cook Low and Slow for Tender Meat: Cooking on low for longer ensures chicken remains juicy and tender.
Add Veggies Later for Crispness: For crunchier vegetables, add them during the last hour of cooking.
Thicken Sauce if Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.
Experiment with Nut Butters: Try different types of nut butters, like almond or cashew, for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and aromatic, it absorbs the sauce perfectly.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These add texture and an extra layer of flavor with dipping sauces on the side.
Garlic Noodles: A quick stir-fry of noodles with garlic complements the chicken’s richness well.
Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these beans bring a crunchy contrast to your meal.
Coconut Quinoa: Cooked in coconut milk, this nutty grain pairs nicely with peanut flavors.
Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Wrong Chicken Cut: Using bone-in chicken or thighs can result in a different texture and flavor. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best outcome.
Skipping the Sauce Whisking: Failing to whisk the sauce properly can lead to uneven flavors. Always mix your peanut butter and liquids thoroughly before pouring over the chicken.
Overcooking: Cooking on HIGH for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended times of 2-3 hours on HIGH or 4-5 hours on LOW.
Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can ruin your dish. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
Not Adding Garnishes: Skipping cilantro or lime juice at the end can make your dish taste flat. These fresh elements enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Make sure to label with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring often until warm.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken that might help you get started:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu or pork, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, broccoli, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add more chili garlic paste or fresh chilies according to your heat preference.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add veggies like carrots or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish promises satisfaction with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors!

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

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Author: Florence
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Thai

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Description

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of Thai-inspired peanut sauce with tender chicken, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work. The creamy peanut sauce, infused with garlic and spices, elevates ordinary chicken into a savory masterpiece that appeals to everyone, even picky eaters. Whether served over rice or noodles, this nutritious meal is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Instructions

Prepare your ingredients by dicing the bell pepper and onion, and chopping the garlic.
In your slow cooker, layer the diced vegetables at the bottom and place the chicken breasts on top.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, chicken broth, and chili garlic paste until well blended.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or LOW for 4–5 hours until fully cooked.
Stir in lime juice before serving.