Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're a fan of peanut butter, this slow cooker recipe is a must-try! The peanut sauce is packed with flavor, with just the right balance of salty, sweet, and savory notes. The chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it slowly simmers in the sauce. This dish is comforting, filling, and incredibly simple to make. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making clean-up a breeze!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)

• ½ cup soy sauce

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• ¼ cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, chicken broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Pour the peanut sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks.

6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.

7. Serve over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables. Garnish with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Cook time: 6-7 hours on low in the slow cooker

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can toss in some vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli in the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrition.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.

• Peanut Butter Alternatives: If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F before serving.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking. Alternatively, you can also freeze the sauce and chicken mixture for up to 3 months and cook it straight from frozen.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. It will give the sauce a little more bite, which some people really enjoy!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chili paste, sriracha, or fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, if you need a gluten-free option or avoid soy, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute.

What should I serve with this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a more balanced meal.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but for the best texture, cooking it on low for 6-7 hours is recommended to ensure the chicken becomes tender and juicy.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, thighs, or even chicken drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and peanut sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on the stove for a few minutes after cooking to reduce the liquid or mix in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) until it reaches your desired thickness.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and ease of preparation make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it over rice or with vegetables, it’s a delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.