Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe with Perfect Crunch
Peanut Butter Chicken: Crispy chicken breasts coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, served with a creamy peanut butter sauce. Perfect with rice or veggies, and customizable with spice or sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or opt for thighs for a juicier texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko for a crispier finish
For the Peanut Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari if you're looking for a gluten-free option
- 1 tbsp honey to balance out the savory flavors
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp grated ginger adds a hint of warmth
- 1 tbsp lime juice for a bright, tangy note
- 1/4 cup water to achieve the desired sauce consistency
Optional Garnishes:
- Crushed peanuts for added crunch
- Fresh cilantro leaves to enhance the dish with color and flavor
- Lime wedges for a squeeze of freshness
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version!
- If you prefer a spicier dish add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- For extra crunch you can use cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to enhance flavor. This will help enhance the flavor.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating it evenly. Dip it into the beaten egg, then coat it with breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Pan-fry the chicken: Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Alternatively, you can bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Sauce
- In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, grated ginger, lime juice, and water. Stir well until smooth and creamy. If you'd like a thinner sauce, simply stir in additional water to reach your desired consistency
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the peanut butter sauce over the crispy chicken. If you’d like, garnish with crushed peanuts, cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Peanut Butter Chicken alongside rice or veggies. Enjoy the crunch and creamy richness in every bite!