Grilled lemongrass chicken skewers with peanut sauce
Malaysian Chicken Satay
Prep Time
25 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4
12 skewers
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Malaysian Chicken Satay
Grilled lemongrass chicken skewers with peanut sauce
★4.4(10)
Tender chicken skewers marinated in lemongrass, turmeric, and cumin, grilled until charred and smoky. Dunked in a creamy, spiced peanut dipping sauce.
25m
Prep Time
10m
Cook Time
35m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Satay is the ultimate Southeast Asian street food — skewers of marinated meat grilled over charcoal and served with a thick, nutty peanut sauce. Malaysian satay stands out for its lemongrass-turmeric marinade.
Asian cuisine encompasses an incredible diversity of techniques and flavors. This recipe draws on time-tested methods to create something truly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thigh, cut into strips
- 2 stalks lemongrass, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp cumin powder
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
Instructions
- 1
Blend lemongrass, turmeric, cumin, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt into a paste. Marinate chicken strips for at least 1 hour.
- 2
Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes, then thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- 3
Grill over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
- 4
For the peanut sauce, simmer crushed peanuts with coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar until thick.
- 5
Serve skewers hot with peanut sauce, sliced cucumber, and rice cakes on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve over steamed jasmine or sticky rice
Pair with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi
Add a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Substitutions
Chicken thighBeef sirloin strips
Beef satay is equally traditional and delicious
PeanutsCashews
Cashew sauce is creamier and works for those who prefer milder flavor
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use chicken thighs instead of breast — the extra fat keeps the meat juicy on the grill.
Baste the skewers with a little oil while grilling to prevent sticking and add sheen.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Refrigerate cooked skewers for up to 3 days. Peanut sauce keeps 5 days.
Reheating
Reheat skewers under a broiler or on a hot pan for 2 minutes per side.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (110mg) · 4 servings
Calories340
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein30g
Carbohydrates18g
Fat12g
Fiber480mg
Sugar2g
Sodium4g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a grill pan indoors?
- Yes, a cast-iron grill pan over high heat works well. Open a window for ventilation.
- How do I make the peanut sauce thicker?
- Simmer longer or add a tablespoon of peanut butter for extra body.
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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