If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that pretty much cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is about to become your new go-to. Creamy peanut butter melds with rich coconut milk, bright ginger, and a pop of chili heat, blanketing tender chicken thighs in a luscious sauce that’s as comforting as it is crave-worthy. Every spoonful tastes exotic yet familiar, making this dish a big winner for busy weeknights or casual entertaining alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather just a handful of pantry staples and a couple of fresh ingredients to unlock big flavors with minimal effort. Each ingredient in Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken brings something special to the table—texture, color, richness, or that little spark of freshness at the end.
- Chicken thighs: Juicy, boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay tender and soak up all the amazing peanut sauce flavors.
- Coconut milk: Adds creamy, tropical richness and melds beautifully with the peanut butter.
- Peanut butter: Natural peanut butter delivers creamy texture and that irresistible nutty backbone.
- Soy sauce: Brings an umami depth that keeps the sauce balanced and savory.
- Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and lifts the heavier flavors.
- Honey: Just a touch of sweetness rounds out the salty-savory vibe.
- Freshly grated ginger: Adds gentle warmth and zing—don’t skip it!
- Garlic: Aromatic and essential; it intensifies all the other flavors.
- Chili garlic sauce (optional): For those who crave a bit of heat, this adds a lovely kick.
- Red bell pepper: Pops of bright color and juicy crunch that make the dish extra inviting.
- Yellow onion: Sweet onion brings depth and slight caramel notes as it softens up.
- Chicken broth: Helps thin out the sauce and adds savory complexity.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped and sprinkled on top, it brings freshness and vibrant color.
- Chopped peanuts: The perfect crunchy finish—don’t skip this topping!
- Cooked jasmine rice: Mild, fragrant rice is the ideal base to soak up all that creamy sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Step 1: Layer the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken thigh chunks in a single, even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. They’ll be the foundation for the rest of the ingredients, allowing them to soak up as much of that gorgeous sauce as possible during the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, chili garlic sauce (if you like it spicy), and chicken broth. This creates a luscious, smooth sauce that will coat your chicken and veggies with bold flavor.
Step 3: Pour and Layer
Pour your sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, gently lay the sliced red bell pepper and onion over everything. Don’t stir—these veggies will steam beautifully as the dish cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Magic
Pop the lid on and let your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken work its magic. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours (for extra tender chicken) or high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. Your kitchen will smell amazing as everything melds together!
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Once the chicken is fall-apart tender, give everything a gentle stir so the sauce coats every piece. Serve generous spoonfuls over fluffy jasmine rice and put out chopped cilantro and peanuts for everyone to add as they like.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken
Garnishes
Don’t skip the toppings! A handful of fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on each bowl give contrast, crunch, and a refreshing herbal lift to the Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken. Want even more zing? Add thinly sliced scallions or a wedge of lime for a pop of brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish is complete with jasmine rice, but you can round it out with a simple cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or sautéed snap peas. Anything with a cool or crunchy element complements the creamy, hearty chicken beautifully and keeps the meal feeling light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, present your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken in lettuce cups for a casual, hands-on dinner, or pile it high on a tray of steamed rice for family-style sharing. If you love noodle bowls, this chicken and sauce is downright dreamy over vermicelli or soba noodles!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken tastes just as amazing the next day! Cool any extras promptly and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only get richer as they meld, making tomorrow’s lunch a total treat.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly, which makes it a superstar for meal prep. Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then transfer to zip-top bags or freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, just splash in a little water or coconut milk to loosen it. You can also microwave individual portions for an even quicker solution.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are extra juicy and forgiving in the slow cooker, chicken breasts work too. Just keep an eye out—they cook a little faster and can be slightly drier, but they’ll still soak up all that luscious peanut sauce flavor.
Is this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe very spicy?
It’s totally customizable! The chili garlic sauce adds as much or as little heat as you like. Make it mild by leaving it out entirely, or stir in a little extra if you’re a spicy food fan.
Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes—this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken is naturally dairy-free. For a gluten-free version, simply swap in tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce, and check your chili garlic sauce for any hidden gluten.
Does this work as a meal prep recipe?
Definitely! This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it out with rice in single-serve containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Get creative! Sliced carrots, snow peas, baby spinach, or even broccoli florets make delicious swaps or additions. Add sturdier veggies at the start, and toss leafy greens in just before serving for best texture and color.
Final Thoughts
I cannot wait for you to try this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken and taste just how easy and delicious it is. With super-simple prep and unbelievably rich flavors, it’s the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Give it a spin—you just might find a brand new family favorite!
