Serves 2
40 min
African Chicken in Peanut Sauce
Recipe GLPR08f0e84c61922c
Tender chicken pieces seasoned with a warm spice blend of garlic, cayenne, and black pepper, then seared until golden. The chicken is finished in a rich, creamy sauce made with coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar for a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served alongside fluffy couscous for an authentic African-inspired main course.
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Ingredients
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
1½ teaspoons chopped garlic
1½ teaspoons onion powder
¾ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1½ pounds chicken pieces (breasts or thighs)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
½ cup natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cups cooked couscous
Directions
In a small bowl, combine the salt, ground black pepper, chopped garlic, onion powder, and ground cayenne pepper, mixing until evenly blended to create a fragrant spice rub.
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Generously apply the spice rub to all surfaces of the chicken, working the mixture into the meat so each piece is well seasoned.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Working in batches to avoid crowding, carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet. Sear for 5–7 minutes on the first side until deep golden brown, then flip and cook the second side for another 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is caramelized. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar, stirring constantly until the peanut butter is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and coat them evenly with the peanut sauce. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to develop.
Transfer the chicken and sauce to serving plates. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro and serve alongside the cooked couscous.
