Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or to taste)
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• Salt to taste
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• Cooking spray
• 2 cups cooked rice (or as needed)
• Chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, julienne cucumbers, and carrots (optional)
• Chopped salt-free, dry-roasted peanuts (optional)

Directions

Step 1: In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the Thai sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha, lime zest, lime juice, granulated garlic, minced ginger, peanut butter, and a pinch of salt. Gently massage and mix the ingredients until they are fully blended.

Step 2: Add the chicken thighs into the bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Seal the bag and move the chicken around to ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.

Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 350F (180C), or follow the manufacturer's instructions for your air fryer. Lightly spray the cooking surface with cooking spray.

Step 4: Remove the chicken from the bag, allowing the excess marinade to drip back into the bag. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 20 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).

Step 5: While the chicken is cooking, take the remaining marinade (that wasnt in contact with the raw chicken) and add about 1/2 cup of water. Mix well and pour the mixture into a microwave-safe . Microwave on high until it comes to a boil, then let it cook for about 1 more minute. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from boiling over.

Step 6: Once the chicken is done, serve it over a bed of rice, with the reheated sauce on the side for dipping. For extra flavor and texture, garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, julienne cucumbers, julienne carrots, and chopped peanuts, if desired.

Cooks Note: Many ingredients in the marinade are already salty, so be sure to taste before adding any additional salt.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition	Amount per Serving
Calories	727
Total Fat	40g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	284mg
Sodium	962mg
Total Carbohydrate	37g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	60g
Vitamin C	10mg
Calcium	54mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	805mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Peanut Chicken

Peanut Chicken, while now popular in modern air fryer recipes, has its roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly Thai and Indonesian cooking traditions. In these regions, peanuts have long been a staple ingredient, used both in savory sauces and as a garnish for meats. Traditional Thai peanut chicken, or Gai Pad Med Mamuang, combines tender chicken with a rich, slightly sweet peanut sauce, often accompanied by vegetables and rice. The adaptation for air fryers is a contemporary twist, allowing for a crisp exterior without deep frying, reflecting the evolution of traditional recipes into convenient, health-conscious formats.

Regional Variations

Different regions put their unique spin on peanut chicken. In Thailand, the sauce often incorporates coconut milk, lemongrass, and fish sauce, emphasizing a balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. In Indonesia, peanut sauces such as satay sauce are spicier and thicker, commonly served with skewered grilled chicken. The American adaptation, such as this air fryer version, tends to lean on ingredients like Sriracha, soy sauce, and lime for a tangy, slightly spicy flavor profile, making it easier to prepare in home kitchens without sacrificing taste.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While peanut chicken shares similarities with dishes like General Tsos chicken or satay, it is distinct in its emphasis on a creamy, nut-based sauce rather than a heavily sweet or soy-heavy glaze. Unlike traditional fried chicken, air fryer peanut chicken achieves a crisp texture with minimal oil, highlighting the peanut sauce rather than the breading. Compared to satay, which is often served on skewers with a side of cucumber salad, this recipe integrates the peanut flavor directly into the marinade and cooking process, making it a complete one-dish meal when served over rice or noodles.

Where Its Typically Served

Air fryer peanut chicken is versatile and can be served in various settings. In Southeast Asia, it is commonly a street food or home-cooked dinner, paired with steamed rice. In Western countries, it has become popular in casual dining restaurants, often offered as a main entree with sides like vegetables, rice, or salad. Its adaptability also makes it ideal for meal prep and family dinners, where quick cooking methods like air frying provide a healthy yet flavorful option.

Interesting Facts

• Peanut sauces originated as a way to extend protein-rich ingredients and add flavor to simple chicken dishes.
• The use of air fryers for this recipe reduces fat content compared to traditional deep frying while retaining the signature crispiness.
• The combination of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors appeals broadly, making peanut chicken a favorite in fusion cuisine worldwide.
• Adding lime juice and zest not only enhances flavor but also reflects the Southeast Asian tradition of balancing rich sauces with acidity.
• Chopped peanuts as a garnish are not just decorativethey add texture and an extra layer of nuttiness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

FAQ about Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Recipe

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