Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers: 6 Reasons to Love This Dish

Name: Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers: 6 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken fillet, cut into cubes; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Skewers (wooden or metal)

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 16, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers*! The moment those succulent pieces of chicken hit the grill, the aroma fills the air with a mouthwatering blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that just can’t be beaten. I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of creamy peanut butter with a kick of sriracha? It’s like a little party on a stick! And trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of these skewers.

Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers - detail 1

This recipe is not only super easy to whip up, but it also brings a delightful Asian twist to your backyard barbecues or weeknight dinners. I love how the marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor. Plus, grilling adds that perfect charred finish that makes each bite so satisfying. Whenever I serve these at gatherings, people are always asking for the recipe – and I can’t blame them! It’s become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I know you’ll fall in love with it too. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to make your *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers* shine:

1 lb chicken fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes – this is the star of the dish, so choose fresh, juicy chicken!
1/2 cup peanut butter – creamy or crunchy, your choice! It adds that irresistible richness.
1/4 cup soy sauce – this brings a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the honey.
2 tablespoons honey – a touch of natural sweetness to complement the spicy kick.
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce – adjust according to your spice tolerance; it’s the secret to that fiery flavor!
2 cloves garlic, minced – garlic adds a lovely aromatic punch.
1 tablespoon ginger, minced – fresh ginger gives a warm, zesty twist to the marinade.
1 tablespoon lime juice – this brightens everything up and adds a refreshing zing.
Skewers (wooden or metal) – if you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning!

How to Prepare Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing those delicious *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers*! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a meal that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.

Step 1 – Make the Marinade

Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Toss in that creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, minced garlic, minced ginger, and lime juice. Now, mix it all together until it’s smooth and well-combined. Trust me, the magic happens here – the rich flavors meld together, creating a marinade that’ll make your chicken sing! You want every nook and cranny of that marinade to be bursting with flavor.

Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to introduce the chicken. Add the bite-sized cubes into the bowl and toss them around until every piece is coated evenly. This is so important for that flavor infusion! Once everything’s coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can swing it, allow it to sit for a few hours or even overnight. The longer, the better for tender, juicy chicken!

Step 3 – Prepare the Grill

While your chicken is soaking up all those delicious flavors, it’s time to get the grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial because starting with a hot grill ensures that your skewers get that beautiful char and cook evenly. You don’t want to rush this part, so let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll hear that satisfying sizzle when the chicken hits the grill – trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 4 – Assemble the Skewers

Now, let’s get those skewers ready! If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Grab your marinated chicken and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Aim for about 4-5 pieces per skewer, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and allows those gorgeous grill marks to form – you want that charred goodness!

Step 5 – Grill the Skewers

With your skewers assembled, it’s time to hit the grill! Place them on the hot grill and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so all sides get that lovely char. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s okay to peek – just don’t flip them too often, or you’ll lose that beautiful crust!

Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy

Once your skewers are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken juicy. Serve them hot, maybe with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the peanut sauce. Oh, and don’t forget extra lime wedges on the side for that zesty kick! You’re going to love the explosion of flavors in every bite. Enjoy the feast and the compliments that come your way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter with spicy sriracha and a hint of sweetness from honey creates a taste sensation that’s truly unforgettable.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these skewers ready for grilling in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the peanut butter, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking by modifying the amount of sriracha, or toss in some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and crunch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or meal prep for the week, these skewers fit right in and impress everyone at the table.
Fun to Eat: There’s something about food on a stick that makes it extra fun! Perfect for gatherings or just a casual meal at home.

Tips for Success

To make sure your *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers* turn out perfectly every time, keep these handy tips in mind:

Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Giving your chicken enough time to marinate is key for flavor. If you can, let it sit overnight! The longer it marinates, the more intense and delicious the flavors will be.
Watch the Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat is perfect for cooking these skewers. If the grill is too hot, the outside will char while the inside remains undercooked. If it’s too cool, they’ll dry out before they get that lovely char. Trust your instincts!
Keep an Eye on the Cooking Time: Every grill is different! Start checking your skewers around the 10-minute mark. You want a nice golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about doneness, a meat thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out and ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying it out.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add colorful veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or onion chunks to your skewers. They add flavor, nutrition, and make your skewers even more visually appealing!
Let Them Rest: After grilling, let your skewers sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Make sure to leave a little space between each piece of chicken. This promotes even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful char you’re after.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to grilling the most delicious *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers*. Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers* is that they’re incredibly versatile! Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Veggie Twist: Add some colorful veggies to your skewers! Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, or cherry tomatoes not only enhance the flavor but also create a vibrant presentation. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking.
Different Proteins: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu! Both options absorb the marinade beautifully and add a unique twist to the dish. Just keep an eye on cooking times; shrimp cooks quickly, while tofu may need a little longer to get that nice char.
Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick. You could also substitute the sriracha with a hotter sauce if you’re feeling bold!
Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for a refreshing flavor boost. It adds a lovely aromatic element that complements the peanut sauce perfectly.
Nutty Variation: For an added crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts or sesame seeds over the skewers just before serving. It adds a delightful texture and enhances that nutty flavor profile.
Sweet and Savory: For a different flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of pineapple or mango puree to the marinade. This will bring a fruity sweetness that balances beautifully with the spice!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste! The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes these skewers so much fun to prepare. Get creative and make them your own!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:

Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 20g

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch! Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with good ingredients while savoring every bite of those delicious skewers.

FAQ Section

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common inquiries I’ve come across about *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers* that might help you out:

Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken. This can actually enhance the flavors even more!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any skewers left (which is rare, trust me!), let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently on the grill or in the oven for the best results!

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! If you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to reduce the sriracha or substitute it with a milder sauce. You can also add more honey to balance it out or mix in a bit of yogurt for creaminess without the spice.

What if I don’t have skewers?

No problem at all! You can grill the marinated chicken pieces directly on the grill or use a grill basket. Just make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid any flare-ups!

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

You sure can! Marinate the chicken, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling. It’s a great way to have a quick meal ready to go!

What sides go well with these skewers?

There are so many options! I love serving them with fluffy jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or even a vibrant coleslaw. You could also whip up a simple dipping sauce using extra peanut butter and soy sauce for a fun twist!

If you have more questions or need tips, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help make your *Spicy Peanut Chicken Skewers* experience as delicious and enjoyable as possible!