Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Fusion: The combination of peanut butter and lime juice creates a unique and delightful taste experience.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or vegetables to suit your preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and can be reheated without losing its deliciousness.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking with the addition of chili flakes or sriracha.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh ginger, grated
Peanut butter (creamy)
Fresh lime juice
Soy sauce
Honey or brown sugar
Red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Crushed peanuts (for garnish)
Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes or sriracha if using. Adjust the consistency with a little warm water if needed.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Combine and Simmer: In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serve: Plate the chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Drizzle with extra sauce from the skillet and garnish with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Nut Alternatives: Use almond or cashew butter in place of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, but it will alter the texture of the sauce, giving it a chunkier consistency.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine or basmati rice complements the flavors well, but any rice variety will work.

Can I freeze Peanut Lime Chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

How can I make the sauce thinner?

Add a small amount of warm water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor. Brush with a bit of the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.

What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are good substitutes for honey.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha used. Adjust to your taste.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?

Lime juice is preferred for its unique flavor, but lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Peanut Lime Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of peanut butter and the zestiness of lime in a harmonious blend. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy

Peanut Lime Chicken

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Peanut Lime Chicken is a flavorful dish combining tender chicken with a creamy, zesty peanut-lime sauce. With a perfect balance of peanut butter’s richness and fresh lime’s tang, this dish offers a comforting yet invigorating meal. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and customizable to your spice preference.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes or sriracha (if using). Add a splash of warm water if needed to adjust the sauce consistency.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Simmer the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce. Bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes for the flavors to meld.
Serve: Plate the chicken over rice or noodles. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts.