Name: Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-486118H13M8S
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired
Ingredients: 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ large yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup chicken broth; ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon lime juice; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges, for serving; Cooked rice or noodles, for serving; Chopped peanuts, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, Thai-inspired peanut sauce. It’s the perfect meal for busy days, requiring only a few minutes of prep and leaving you with a comforting dinner at the end of the day. The sauce is smooth, slightly sweet, and full of savory depth, while the chicken comes out juicy and easy to shred. This dish is versatile and can be served over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables, making it a hit for the whole family.

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Ingredients

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ large yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
⅔ cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chicken broth
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Chopped peanuts, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice until smooth.
Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Serve the peanut chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with additional cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped peanuts.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative.
Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will result in a juicier dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables the night before, storing them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, add the chicken and sauce to the slow cooker and cook as directed.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Can I freeze this meal?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, rice noodles, or a simple green salad.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but ensure it is well-stirred before adding to the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a tablespoon of sriracha, a diced chili pepper, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for added heat.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well and can be portioned into containers for easy meal prep.

Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or snap peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is an easy, hands-off meal that combines the richness of peanut butter with the savory depth of soy sauce and the freshness of lime. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting, flavorful dish with minimal effort. This dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices to suit your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or your favorite base for a complete, satisfying meal.