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Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Irresistible Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken for Effortless Family Dinners

This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a high-protein meal with a creamy peanut-coconut sauce, perfect for families and busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil Adds richness; substitute with olive oil if unavailable.
  • 1 cup Natural Peanut Butter Thickens sauce and adds creaminess; almond butter can offer a different taste.
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Creates a rich, creamy base; keep it light with reduced-fat coconut milk if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari Seasoning with a salty depth; use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (optional) Deepens umami flavor; soy sauce can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Monk Fruit Brown Sweetener Adds sweetness; brown sugar can be a direct substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Provides acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha Adds heat; chili paste can be an alternative for spice lovers.
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Main protein source; use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture.
For the Aromatics
  • 5 cloves Garlic, chopped Infuses flavor; fresh garlic is recommended; dried garlic may alter taste slightly.
  • 1 small Yellow Onion, diced Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Grated Ginger Enhances spiciness and aroma; ground ginger can serve in a pinch but will change the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder Provides warmth and depth; explore other spices like garam masala for a unique twist.
For Serving
  • 2 cups Jasmine Rice, Lettuce Cups, or Cauliflower Rice Vary your serving foundation based on preference.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Roasted Peanuts Adds crunch; cashews or sesame seeds can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro or Scallions Fresh herbiness; basil can provide a different flavor twist.
  • 2 wedge Lime Brightens the dish flavor; lemon can be a substitute for acidity.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over medium heat. Add chopped garlic, diced onion, and grated ginger, cooking for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance their flavors.
  2. Prepare Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed mixture to a slow cooker. To this, add natural peanut butter, fish sauce, soy sauce, monk fruit sweetener, kosher salt, rice vinegar, sriracha, the remaining sesame oil, and coconut milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming the rich sauce for your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken.
  3. Combine & Cook: Now, it's time to add the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker, making sure each piece is well-coated with sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours. The chicken should become tender and easily shreddable.
  4. Shred Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce in the slow cooker and stir to combine, allowing it to soak up the flavors for an additional 15 minutes on low.
  5. Serve: Your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is now ready to enjoy! Spoon the flavorful mixture over fluffy jasmine rice, crisp lettuce cups, or cauliflower rice. For a delightful touch, garnish your dish with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to brighten the flavors, making your family meal truly irresistible.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 31gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Sautéing the aromatics, choosing the right chicken, and adjusting spices are key to perfecting this dish. Fresh garnishes enhance both flavor and presentation.

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