Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Table of Contents

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a rich, comforting dish inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, combining tender chicken with a creamy, savory peanut sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and coconut milk. The slow cooker does most of the work, gently simmering the ingredients until the chicken becomes incredibly tender and the sauce thickens into a smooth, flavorful coating. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings because it requires minimal hands-on time yet delivers deep, satisfying flavor. The balance of nutty peanut butter, creamy coconut milk, salty soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness creates a dish that pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Whether you enjoy mild flavors or prefer a little heat, this recipe is easy to customize and reliable for cooks of all experience levels.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours (low setting) or 2–3 hours (high setting)
Total Time: About 4–6 hours
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Chicken:

2–2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Peanut Sauce Base:

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1 1/2 cups chicken stock or broth

1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk

3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice or rice wine vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Aromatics & Spices:

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger

1 teaspoon chili garlic paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for Thai-style flavor)

Optional Add-ins:

1 small onion, chopped

Instructions

Place chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of the slow cooker in an even layer.

In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil until smooth.

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, and curry powder if using.

Add chopped onion and bell pepper over the chicken if desired.

Pour the prepared peanut sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Once cooked, remove chicken and shred with two forks or slice into bite-size pieces.

Return chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat thoroughly with sauce.

Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, soy sauce, or chili paste if needed.

Serve hot over rice or noodles and garnish with cilantro, peanuts, and lime wedges.

Tips

Chicken thighs remain extra juicy and flavorful during slow cooking.

Stir the sauce well before pouring to prevent peanut butter clumps.

If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or water before serving.

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more nutty flavor.

For a smoother sauce, whisk ingredients in a blender before adding.

Avoid overcooking on high heat to keep chicken tender.

Taste the sauce halfway through cooking and adjust spice levels.

Add vegetables later in cooking if you prefer them firmer.

Skim excess oil from the top if coconut milk separates.

Let the dish rest 10 minutes after cooking so flavors settle.

Variations

Add cubed sweet potatoes for a heartier one-pot meal.

Stir in spinach or baby kale during the last 10 minutes for greens.

Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.

Add crushed pineapple for a sweet tropical twist.

Include Thai red curry paste for deeper spice and complexity.

Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice.

Add snow peas or green beans near the end for crunch.

Use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian adaptation.

Add a splash of fish sauce for more umami flavor.

Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat.

Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time slightly and ensure safe internal temperature.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely, flavors deepen when reheated the next day.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix a little cornstarch with water and stir in during the last 20 minutes.

Can I make it dairy-free?

It already is dairy-free when using coconut milk.

What if I don’t have coconut milk?

Use extra broth with a splash of cream or plant milk.

Is it spicy?

Heat level depends on chili paste amount.

Can I cook it on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer gently for about 35–45 minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in airtight containers up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

What sides pair well?

Steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

(Approximate per serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 620mg

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that delivers creamy richness and savory depth with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken and smooth peanut sauce creates a satisfying meal that feels both hearty and balanced. Its adaptability allows you to adjust spice levels, add vegetables, or experiment with different nut butters to suit your taste. Perfect for busy schedules, meal prep, or family dinners, this recipe offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Serve it over rice, noodles, or vegetables for a nourishing meal that is sure to become a reliable favorite in your kitchen.