Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, making it a delightful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken

Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a popular dish inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine, featuring marinated chicken served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. The satay marinade is a delicious blend of soy sauce, garlic, lime, ginger, and chili, creating a balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors.

The chicken is grilled or pan-fried to perfection and then served with a luscious peanut sauce that adds a nutty richness to the dish. This dish can be enjoyed on skewers as a snack, or served with rice or noodles for a hearty main course.

Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips or chunks for easy skewering or grilling.
2. Peanut Butter: A smooth, unsweetened peanut butter to create the rich, creamy sauce.
3. Soy Sauce: A staple ingredient for adding saltiness and depth to the marinade.
4. Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zesty, citrusy tang to balance the richness of the peanut sauce.
5. Garlic: Fresh garlic, finely minced, for a punch of aromatic flavor.
6. Ginger: Fresh ginger, minced or grated, to add a warm, spicy kick to the marinade.
7. Chili: Fresh red chili or chili flakes, depending on how spicy you like your dish.
8. Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess to the peanut sauce, helping it come together smoothly.
9. Brown Sugar: For a slight sweetness that complements the salty and savory flavors.
10. Sesame Oil: A few drops for a nutty undertone in the marinade.
11. Vegetable Oil: For grilling or pan-frying the chicken.
12. Fresh Cilantro (optional): To garnish, providing a fresh, herbaceous note.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Grill or Grill Pan: For perfectly grilling the chicken and imparting that smoky flavor.
2. Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients for the marinade and peanut sauce.
3. Skewers (optional): If you want to skewer the chicken for grilling, you’ll need wooden or metal skewers.
4. Whisk: For smoothening out the peanut sauce and incorporating all the ingredients.
5. Knife and Chopping Board: For chopping the chicken, garlic, ginger, and other fresh ingredients.
6. Pan or Skillet: If you prefer to pan-fry the chicken, a non-stick skillet will work best.
7. Basting Brush (optional): For brushing the chicken with marinade while grilling.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken?

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, ginger, chili, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add your chicken pieces to the bowl and mix well, making sure all the chicken is coated with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours if you want a more intense flavor.
3. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, a splash of soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it to your desired consistency.
4. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has grill marks. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a hot skillet, turning it regularly to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Serve and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, plate it and drizzle generously with the peanut sauce. You can sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Marinate the Chicken Longer: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
• Peanut Butter Consistency: If your peanut butter is too thick, you can add a little extra coconut milk or water to get a smoother consistency for the sauce.
• Add a Kick: If you like extra heat, feel free to increase the amount of chili in both the marinade and the peanut sauce. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of spiciness.
• Alternate Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, you can also broil the chicken in the oven or pan-fry it for a more convenient cooking method.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating.

Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with the simplicity of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or whipping up a quick dinner on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress.

The combination of tender chicken, savory marinade, and creamy peanut sauce is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you craving more. With a few expert tips and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Give it a try and bring the taste of satay right to your kitchen!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken

Jamie Oliver’s satay chicken is a deliciously simple dish that can be tailored in many ways to suit your tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer it spicier, sweeter, or with a twist of flavor from different cuisines, here are a few variations to experiment with:

1. Spicy Satay Chicken: If you enjoy some heat in your meals, you can increase the spice level by adding fresh red chili to the peanut sauce. Alternatively, a teaspoon of chili flakes or a tablespoon of sambal oelek can take the flavor to the next level. For even more of a kick, marinate the chicken with some chili paste before grilling.
2. Lemon and Lime Zest: Infuse a refreshing citrusy twist to the dish by adding freshly grated lime zest or lemon zest to your peanut sauce. A squeeze of lime juice over the grilled chicken will also enhance the brightness of the flavors.
3. Coconut Milk Twist: For a creamier and richer satay sauce, replace some of the peanut butter with coconut milk. This will give your sauce a luscious texture and a tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. You can also add a bit of brown sugar to balance the richness.
4. Vegetarian or Vegan Satay: For a plant-based option, replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Marinate the plant-based proteins just as you would with chicken, ensuring they soak up the flavorful peanut sauce. Tofu or tempeh absorbs the sauce beautifully and makes for a great vegetarian satay alternative.
5. Satay Chicken Skewers: Jamie Oliver’s recipe is typically served as chicken pieces, but for a fun, shareable twist, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers before grilling. Not only will this make for an easier, more fun way to serve the dish, but it will also give the chicken more surface area to caramelize and develop a beautiful char.
6. Asian-Inspired Satay Chicken with Ginger: Add freshly grated ginger to the peanut sauce to enhance its depth and add a bit of zing. This variation will give a sharp, earthy note to the sauce, complementing the sweetness and creaminess of the peanuts.
7. Peanut-Free Satay: If you have a peanut allergy or just want to try something different, substitute peanuts with sunflower seeds or cashews in the sauce. Both options will give you a creamy texture and a different nutty profile while still keeping the essence of the dish intact.

These variations can take Jamie Oliver’s already versatile recipe and give it a fresh spin, ensuring that it never gets boring and remains adaptable to different tastes and dietary requirements.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftover satay chicken, you’ll want to ensure that the flavors stay fresh and the texture remains satisfying. Here are some best practices to properly store your leftovers:

1. Cool Down the Chicken Properly: Before storing your leftovers, make sure to allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature (but not for more than two hours). This helps to avoid bacteria growth. Placing hot food directly in the fridge can cause the temperature inside the fridge to rise, which could affect other food.
2. Airtight Storage: Store the satay chicken and peanut sauce in separate airtight containers. This will prevent moisture from affecting the chicken and will keep the peanut sauce fresh for longer. If you’ve threaded the chicken onto skewers, remove them from the skewers before storing to ensure even cooling and to save space.
3. Refrigeration: Leftover satay chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Beyond that, the chicken may begin to dry out, and the sauce could lose its creamy texture. Ensure your fridge is at the correct temperature, ideally around 40°F (4°C), to keep the food safe.
4. Freezing: While it’s always best to enjoy satay chicken fresh, you can freeze the chicken and peanut sauce for later use. Wrap the chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For the peanut sauce, pour it into an airtight container and freeze it separately. When you’re ready to eat it again, let the chicken thaw in the fridge overnight, and gently reheat the peanut sauce in a saucepan to restore its original creamy texture.
5. Reheating: When reheating satay chicken, do so gently to avoid drying out the meat. Use a pan on low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Reheat the peanut sauce on the stove, adding a little extra coconut milk or water if it has thickened too much.

By following these practices, you can enjoy your leftover satay chicken without sacrificing quality or flavor.

What Goes Well With Satay Chicken?

Satay chicken is an incredibly versatile dish, and it pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich, nutty, and savory flavors. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:

1. Rice: A classic side for satay chicken is a fragrant, soft bed of rice. Jasmine rice is an excellent choice with its light, aromatic flavor that doesn’t overpower the satay. For a more complex option, try coconut rice or brown rice for added texture and flavor.
2. Asian-Inspired Slaw: A refreshing Asian slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar will add a crisp, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Pair the satay chicken with some grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. The smokiness from the grill adds a great depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the peanut sauce. You can even drizzle a little extra satay sauce over the veggies for an added punch.
4. Cucumber Salad: A cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness of the chicken. You can add a bit of chili, fresh herbs like mint, and some lime juice for a refreshing, zesty contrast.
5. Noodles: For a heartier side, try serving the satay chicken with noodles. Stir-fried rice noodles with garlic, vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce create a perfect balance with the chicken, adding both flavor and texture.
6. Roti or Flatbreads: Soft roti or flatbread is ideal for scooping up the peanut sauce, adding another layer of enjoyment to the meal. Their warmth and softness are an excellent contrast to the grilled chicken and creamy sauce.
7. Fresh Herbs: Top your satay chicken with a handful of fresh cilantro, mint, or basil leaves. The herbs will add a fresh, aromatic lift to the dish and pair wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken.

By mixing and matching these sides, you can elevate your satay chicken meal into a truly memorable feast, full of contrasting textures and vibrant flavors.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s satay chicken recipe is a fantastic and adaptable dish that can be customized in many ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you like your satay spicier, richer, or with a vegan twist, there’s no shortage of creative variations you can try. Additionally, with proper storage practices, you can enjoy the leftovers for several days, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights.

The right sides can also elevate the experience, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors that complement the rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken. Whether paired with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or aromatic rice, there’s no limit to how you can transform this dish into a satisfying meal.

By experimenting with different ingredients and sides, you can keep this dish exciting and versatile, ensuring that it never gets boring and always remains a family favorite.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken Recipe?

To make Jamie Oliver’s satay chicken, you will need chicken breasts, peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime, chili, and a few other ingredients like sesame oil and honey to make the flavorful marinade.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts For Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are slightly more tender and flavorful, making them a great alternative for this recipe.

How Long Should I Marinate The Chicken For The Satay Recipe?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, marinate it for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Can I Make The Satay Sauce Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the satay sauce ahead of time. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

How Can I Make The Satay Sauce Spicier?

To make the satay sauce spicier, you can add more chili or a splash of hot sauce. You can also include red chili flakes or fresh chopped chili depending on your spice preference.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken Recipe Suitable For Gluten-free Diets?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s satay chicken recipe can be made gluten-free. Just ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce and check the other ingredients for gluten content.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken?

Jamie Oliver’s satay chicken goes well with jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with flatbreads or in wraps for a more casual meal.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken Vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How Can I Make The Satay Chicken Less Sweet?

If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce or omit the honey in the marinade. You can balance it out with more lime juice or a splash of soy sauce to enhance the savory flavors.

What Is The Best Way To Cook The Chicken For This Satay Recipe?

The best way to cook the chicken for Jamie Oliver’s satay recipe is to grill it or cook it in a hot pan. Grilling adds a nice charred flavor, while pan-searing ensures the chicken stays juicy.