Crockpot Thai Peanut Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your dinner table with minimal effort. Tender chicken slow-cooked in a luscious peanut sauce infused with coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and Thai spices delivers a comforting, savory-sweet flavor that’s perfect over rice or noodles. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup canned coconut milk
½ cup creamy peanut butter
â…“ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1–2 teaspoons red curry paste (to taste)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup chicken broth or water
Chopped peanuts and green onions, for garnish
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Cooked jasmine rice or noodles, for serving
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, red curry paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Crockpot
Place the chicken in the bottom of a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2½–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Shred and Mix
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Let it sit for an additional 10–15 minutes on warm to soak up the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and cilantro if desired. Add a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of brightness.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Extra Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or baby spinach during the last hour of cooking.
Spicier: Increase red curry paste or add sriracha for a fiery version.
Crunchy: Stir in chopped water chestnuts or snap peas at the end for added texture.
Cooking Notes
Use chicken thighs for the juiciest results, though breasts also work well.
For a thinner sauce, add more broth. For a thicker, richer texture, cook uncovered during the last 30 minutes.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles.
Pair with a Thai cucumber salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy.
Top with sesame seeds or drizzle with extra peanut sauce for added richness.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours (low) or 2½–3 hours (high)
Total Time: 5–6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2½–3 hours 10 minutes (high)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 470
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 28g
Sodium: 680mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, it will add a slightly chunkier texture and extra peanut flavor.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, it reheats well. Make a day ahead and store in the fridge for quick meals.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level?
Start with 1 teaspoon of red curry paste and no chili flakes for a milder version. Add more gradually to taste.
Conclusion
Crockpot Thai Peanut Chicken is the perfect combination of ease and flavor. With minimal prep and bold, comforting ingredients, it brings a taste of Thailand to your home kitchen in a cozy, slow-cooked form. Whether served over rice, noodles, or as part of a bowl with veggies, this dish is a satisfying meal the whole family will love—and you’ll love how easy it is to make.