Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe

If you’re like me and love dinner recipes that are as easy as they are delicious, you’re going to adore this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels special but requires almost zero effort – the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. I remember the first time I made it; my whole family went crazy over the rich, nutty flavor combined with tender chicken. Stick with me here, because I’m going to share all the tips and tricks to make sure your version turns out just right every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. You don’t need fancy stuff to get amazing flavor, just quality basics and a good peanut butter (creamy or crunchy!) to shine.

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless for tender results that pull apart easily.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright pop of color.
• Yellow Onion: Gives depth and sweetness once slow-cooked.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh is best for that essential aromatic lift.
• Peanut Butter (Creamy or Crunchy): Look for minimal ingredients – just peanuts and maybe salt.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and richness without overwhelming flavors.
• Soy Sauce: Brings salty, savory umami to the sauce.
• Honey: Balances spice with a gentle sweetness.
• Sesame Oil: Just a teaspoon adds a toasty nuttiness you’ll love.
• Chili Garlic Paste: Gives a little kick; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Lime Juice: Stirred in at the end for brightness and acidity.
• Cilantro: Fresh chopped for a pop of herbal freshness.

Variations

I love mixing things up depending on what’s in my pantry or craving at the moment. This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe is pretty flexible, so feel free to make it your own!

• Add Veggies: Sometimes I throw in snap peas or shredded carrots in the last hour for added crunch and color.
• Spice Level: If you want it milder, cut back on the chili garlic paste or swap it for a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Peanut Butter Swap: When I’m out of peanut butter, I’ve experimented with almond butter—different but still delicious.
• Protein Options: Use thighs instead of breasts if you prefer darker meat—it stays juicy and gives a richer flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Veggies and Chicken

Begin by tossing the diced red bell pepper, chopped yellow onion, and minced garlic right into the bottom of your slow cooker. I like layering them first because it helps steam the veggies, releasing their natural sweetness as the chicken cooks on top. Then, place the chicken breasts gently over this veggie bed. No need to brown the chicken beforehand – the slow cooker will work its magic!

Step 2: Whisk the Peanut Sauce

Grab a bowl or glass measuring cup, and whisk together the creamy peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste. This sauce is where all the flavor comes from, so whisk until it’s smooth and fully combined. You’ll notice the aroma of peanuts and spice right away – it’s heavenly!

Step 3: Pour and Cook Low and Slow

Pour your peanut sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, depending on your schedule. I usually do LOW while I’m at work all day—come home to the best dinner waiting for me!

Step 4: Finish with Brightness

When your cooking time is up, remove the lid and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This final step brightens up the rich, nutty sauce so it’s not too heavy. Give it a taste to adjust seasoning if you need—sometimes a splash more soy sauce or lime juice does the trick.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Whenever I serve this, I sprinkle on extra fresh cilantro and chop some roasted peanuts for a bit of crunch. A few thinly sliced green onions or a little sesame seed sprinkle also add a lovely touch. These simple garnishes really make the dish feel finished and vibrant.

Side Dishes

I almost always serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken over fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty meal. Sometimes I swap rice for cooked noodles or even steamed quinoa if I want a lighter carb option. For greens, sautéed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad balances out the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, I’ve served this peanut chicken in lettuce cups, topped with crunchy peanuts and herbs for a fresh, bite-sized appetizer. You can also spoon it over mini rice cakes or even stuff it into steamed bao buns for something totally different and crowd-pleasing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I transfer leftovers to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for about 3-4 days. The sauce thickens a bit overnight, but a gentle reheat with a splash of water or broth brings it back to life beautifully.

Freezing

I often freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The texture and flavor hold up surprisingly well, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or chicken broth to loosen it. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely and stir halfway through to heat evenly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe has become a real staple in my home because it combines ease, flavor, and versatility all in one pot. I love knowing I can throw everything in before a busy day and come home to such a comforting dinner. I hope you’ll enjoy this one as much as my family does. It’s just the kind of recipe to keep you coming back to your slow cooker again and again—trust me, once you make it, it’ll be on repeat!

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