Dinner

Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3 Tbsp cornstarch (or almond flour); ¼ cup peanut butter; ¼ cup hoisin sauce (or teriyaki sauce); 3 Tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp garlic (minced); ⅔ cup water; 2 Tbsp cooking oil (for frying); ½ Tbsp sesame seeds; 1 Tbsp green onions (chopped)

ByJulian Dempsey January 7, 2026January 7, 2026

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Introduction

This Peanut Butter Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, savory peanut sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal that still feels special.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with several pieces of golden-brown fried chicken coated in a thick, glossy dark brown sauce. The chicken is garnished with bright green chopped scallions scattered on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a pair of light brown chopsticks resting across the back of the bowl and a white cloth partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1½ lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
3 Tbsp cornstarch (or almond flour)
¼ cup peanut butter
¼ cup hoisin sauce (or teriyaki sauce)
3 Tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp garlic (minced)
⅔ cup water
2 Tbsp cooking oil (for frying)
½ Tbsp sesame seeds (optional for topping)
1 Tbsp green onions (chopped, optional for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch until they are evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and water. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the cornstarch-coated chicken.
Step 4: Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Step 5: Pour the peanut butter sauce into the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use almond flour instead of cornstarch.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
If you prefer a spicier dish, stir in a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white plate with a black patterned rim holds a layer of white cooked rice spread evenly at the bottom. On top, there is a thick layer of golden-brown battered chicken pieces covered in a shiny, dark reddish-brown sauce. The chicken is garnished with sliced green onions scattered across the top. A pair of light brown wooden chopsticks rests beside the plate, on a white cloth napkin. The whole setup is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay juicy, but adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This dish reheats well and can be paired with rice or noodles for easy meals throughout the week.

Julian Dempsey