Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich peanut sauce that is both creamy and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is not only low carb but also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, coconut milk, and red curry paste creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the humble chicken to gourmet status.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is or serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this meal fits well within keto and gluten-free lifestyles.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some key items that will help you prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors beautifully over time.
- Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining your sauce ingredients efficiently before pouring them over the chicken.
- Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients like peanut butter and coconut milk for consistent flavor.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Essential for preparing your chicken quickly and safely.
Ingredients
Slow cooker Thai peanut chicken is the perfect healthy weeknight supper that your entire family will love. This healthy meal is keto-friendly and gluten-free!
Chicken
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- salt and pepper
Sauce
- 1 can coconut milk
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 3 tsp fish sauce
- to taste liquid stevia (or sweetener of choice)
Garnish (Optional)
- Roasted Peanuts
- Cilantro (chopped)
How to Make Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Add the chicken breast pieces to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- coconut milk
- peanut butter
- minced garlic
- red curry paste
- fish sauce
liquid stevia (about 1/4 tsp recommended).
Mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve as is or over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles.
- If desired, top each serving with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your delightful Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Over Cauliflower Rice
- Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the peanut chicken.
Zucchini Noodles
- Spiralized zucchini noodles provide a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Shirataki Noodles
- These low-calorie noodles absorb flavors well, making them a great option for those on a keto diet.
As Is
- Serve the dish straight from the slow cooker for an easy meal that everyone will enjoy without any fuss.
With Chopped Peanuts
- Garnishing with roasted peanuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
Fresh Cilantro
- A sprinkle of chopped cilantro gives a burst of freshness and color to your dish.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
To make sure your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken turns out incredible every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality coconut milk elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; you may want to add more fish sauce or stevia for balance.
- Cook Time Matters: Cooking on low for longer yields tender chicken, while high heat cooks quicker but may dry it out.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Adding bell peppers or broccoli in the last hour can enhance nutrition and flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for later use.
- Pair Wisely: Choose sides that complement the dish without overpowering its unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed vegetable adds color and crunch, making it a perfect pairing.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and rich, mashed cauliflower provides comfort while keeping carbs low.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with cabbage and carrots tossed in a light dressing adds crispness and tang.
- Cabbage Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked cabbage with soy sauce or sesame oil makes for a flavorful side that complements Thai flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter contrast that balances the sweetness of the peanut sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool, crunchy cucumber salad dressed with vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the warm peanut chicken.
- Keto Naan Bread: For those who enjoy bread, keto naan made from almond flour serves as a delightful scoop for the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper for better taste.
- Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Some peanut butters contain added sugars or oils, which can affect the dish’s flavor and carb count. Opt for natural peanut butter for a healthier choice.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Follow the recommended cooking times to keep it juicy and tender.
- Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like chopped peanuts and cilantro add freshness and texture. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish significantly.
- Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste is different. Use liquid stevia or your preferred sweetener cautiously, tasting as you go to achieve the right balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken?
You can use frozen chicken; however, be sure to cook it on low for longer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb?
This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even as a filling in lettuce wraps.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, consider increasing the amount of red curry paste or adding fresh chili peppers.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap peanut butter with almond butter or coconut milk with heavy cream if desired.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that your family will love. This low-carb dish is not only healthy but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try tonight!
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken
Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a delicious and healthy meal that brings the flavors of Thailand right to your dinner table. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, rich peanut sauce made with coconut milk and red curry paste. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Simply set your slow cooker, let the ingredients meld together over several hours, and enjoy this flavorful comfort food with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (low)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 can coconut milk
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 3 tsp fish sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces at the bottom of the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix coconut milk, peanut butter, minced garlic, red curry paste, fish sauce, and liquid stevia until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, stirring gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles if desired, garnished with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
