Looking for a quick, tasty meal? Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls are your answer! This easy recipe combines tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy peanut sauce that bursts with flavor. Perfect for busy nights, these bowls make a delicious, balanced meal in no time. Join me as I walk you through the simple steps to create this dish. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
Peanut Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Water to thin
Additional Garnishes
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Crushed roasted peanuts
- Lime wedges
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. The chicken thighs give a rich taste. The jasmine rice acts as a soft base. Fresh veggies add crunch and color. The peanut sauce is the star of the show. It brings all the flavors together.
I love using creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce. Soy sauce adds a salty depth. Honey brings sweetness, while rice vinegar adds tang. Sesame oil gives a nutty taste. Don't forget the garlic and ginger for zing! Adjust the water in the sauce to get your desired thickness.
For garnishes, green onions and cilantro add freshness. Crushed peanuts give a nice crunch. A lime wedge adds a burst of citrus. This meal is all about balance. You can play with these ingredients to make it your own!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Peanut Sauce
To make the peanut sauce, start with a medium bowl. Add ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water. Mix in small amounts until the sauce is just right. Set the sauce aside for later.
Cooking the Chicken
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of bite-sized chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the chicken to be golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, in the same skillet, add your vegetables. Toss in 1 cup of broccoli florets, 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 julienned carrot, and 1 cup of sugar snap peas. Stir-fry these for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender-crisp. This keeps their bright colors and fresh taste.
Combining and Assembling
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Heat it all together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This warms the dish through. Once heated, it’s time to assemble. In serving bowls, scoop 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice. Top the rice with your chicken and vegetable mixture. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy bites.
- Cook chicken on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Ensure golden color shows the chicken is cooked.
- For crisp veggies, stir-fry quickly over high heat.
- Add broccoli and snap peas last to keep them crunchy.
Sauce Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.
- Use coconut aminos if you need a soy-free option.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more or less garlic.
- Add chili paste if you like more heat.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in colorful bowls to make the dish pop.
- Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh look.
- Use chopped cilantro and green onions as bright garnishes.
- Place crushed peanuts on top for a crunchy finish.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch the chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu adds a rich texture. Use firm tofu for the best results. Shrimp cooks fast and brings a nice flavor. If you want other meats, try beef or pork. Both pair well with the peanut sauce.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to add more veggies. Zucchini is a great choice. It cooks quickly and has a mild taste. Snow peas also work well, adding a nice crunch. You can switch to seasonal vegetables too. Look for what's fresh at your local market.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It has a similar taste and works great. If you want a vegan version, swap chicken for tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey. These changes keep the dish tasty and friendly for different diets.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls fresh, store them in the fridge. Use airtight containers for best results. This prevents air and moisture from spoiling your food. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing the container. This helps avoid condensation inside the container.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this dish if you want to save some for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it on the stove or microwave until hot.
Duration of Freshness
Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage. If you see any mold or if it smells off, it's best to throw it away. Always trust your senses; they help you stay safe while enjoying your meals.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls?
Making Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls takes about 30 minutes. You will spend 15 minutes on prep and 15 minutes cooking. This quick time makes it a great weeknight meal.
Can I make the peanut sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the peanut sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it. If it thickens, add a little water to thin it out.
Is this dish spicy?
This dish is not very spicy. The peanut sauce has a mild flavor. If you want more heat, add some chili flakes or sriracha. You can control the spice level to fit your taste.
What can I serve with Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls?
You can serve Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls with many tasty sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed edamame
- Cucumber salad
- Fresh spring rolls
- A simple green salad
These sides will add freshness and balance to the meal.
In this post, we explored making Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls with simple ingredients. You learned about the key ingredients like chicken, rice, and fresh veggies, along with a creamy peanut sauce. We provided step-by-step instructions on preparing each part and tips for success. You can even customize the dish with various proteins and veggies. Whether you're cooking for yourself or guests, these bowls are a tasty and flexible meal choice. Enjoy your cooking and share your creations!

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