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Creamy Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Butter Chicken Thighs

slow cooker thai peanut butter chicken thighs - featured image

A creamy, flavorful, and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs in a rich Thai peanut butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup (125 g) creamy natural peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Chopped peanuts for garnish
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar or maple syrup, fish sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes or sriracha until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  2. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in an even layer in the bottom of the slow cooker, avoiding overcrowding.
  4. Pour the peanut butter sauce evenly over the chicken thighs, coating them thoroughly.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with extra lime juice, salt, or spice if needed.
  7. Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently to prevent extended cooking time. For a spicier dish, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes. The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, Thai, peanut butter chicken, easy dinner, creamy sauce, chicken thighs, gluten-free option