Name: Easy Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Bomb!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488713H11M49S
Total time: PT-488713H11M49S
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 cup coconut milk or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice; Optional garnish: chopped peanuts, green onions, cilantro

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Easy Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Bomb! 🍗🥜🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for easy slow cooker recipes that pack a punch of flavor, look no further than this Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, rich peanut sauce, and a touch of spicy kick to create a comforting yet exciting meal. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home cook, this peanut chicken recipe is simple to prepare, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.

2. Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 cup coconut milk or chicken broth
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
Optional garnish: chopped peanuts, green onions, cilantro

3. How to Make Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs. For shredded chicken, you can cut them into smaller cubes or leave them whole for a more rustic presentation.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add coconut milk or chicken broth to achieve a creamy consistency that coats the chicken perfectly.

Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken into the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will become tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, shredded or serve whole, garnished with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze in fresh lime juice or rice vinegar for a bright finishing touch.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Peanut Chicken

Store any remaining slow-cooker peanut chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

5. Delicious Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve this peanut chicken over steamed rice, quinoa, or rice noodles for a complete meal.
Pair with a fresh side of healthy broccoli pasta for added greens on your plate.
Crunchy vegetable spring rolls or a crisp cucumber salad add refreshing contrast.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and tend to stay moist during slow cooking, making them a great alternative for this recipe.

What are good substitutions for peanut butter?

If you have a nut allergy or prefer different flavors, almond butter or sunflower seed butter work well as substitutes for peanut butter without compromising creaminess.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The active prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with a slow cooking time of 4-6 hours depending on your settings. It’s a super efficient easy slow cooker recipe perfect for busy nights.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce and verify all ingredients are gluten-free, then yes, this dish can be made gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make this slow-cooker peanut chicken effortlessly, consider using some handy kitchen tools. For instance, the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker ensures even cooking and convenience — perfect for busy weeknights. Want to prepare ingredients quickly? The Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master helps you chop garlic, ginger, and vegetables with ease, making prep work faster and safer.

8. Final Tips for Perfect Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken

Always season your sauce to taste before pouring over the chicken. Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes. For an extra layer of flavor, stir in a splash of fish sauce or sesame oil during the final minutes of cooking. Remember, the longer it cooks, the more flavors meld — so do not rush the process!

9. Conclusion

This easy slow cooker peanut chicken recipe combines the comfort of home-cooked food with the simplicity of slow cooking. It’s an excellent choice for weeknights when time is limited but flavor matters. The rich peanut sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant garnishes make it a standout dish you’ll want to make again and again. Explore more dinner ideas on our blog to elevate your home cooking game. Enjoy this flavorful meal and share it with loved ones!

Easy Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Bomb!