Lately, the crock pot is just what I need to get dinner on the table. Dinner making time tends to be a little too close to bedtime around here now that there are TWO boys and also, Ian is going to bed a little later. So I’ve been putting both crock pots to work as often as possible.
Traditional Thai Peanut Chicken would contain fish sauce. Feel free to add 3 Tablespoons of regular or vegetarian fish sauce if you like. I haven’t been able to find a source for vegetarian fish sauce locally and am allergic to fish, so I leave it out.
I know not everyone likes cilantro, but I’ll let you in on a little secret. You have to use it right after you chop it or the flavor changes. My first few tries with cilantro were not satisfying at all until I found that out. With a new baby and never knowing when I’ll be interrupted, I’m passing on cilantro right now, but if you can be sure to add the garnish right after you chop it, give it a try.
If you assemble and freeze this to cook at a later date, add about 1/4 cup of water when you put it in the crock pot- freezing makes the peanut sauce a little dry.
Crockpot Thai Peanut Chicken
1 cup sliced carrots (or a small package of baby carrots)
3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 1/2 cups peanut butter (low or no sugar added kind)
1/2 cup coconut milk (I freeze the rest of the can in 1/2 cup increments for later use)
3 TBSP lime juice
3 TBSP soy sauce
1 TBSP canola oil
1 tsp ancho chile powder (this has a similar flavor to cayenne but is milder. You can use cayenne if you prefer.)
1 walnut-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated
6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1/4 cup sliced scallions
Cocktail peanuts and fresh cilantro, optional
- Spray the crock pot with cooking spray and add the chicken and carrots.
- Add remaining ingredients and set cooker on “low.”
- Once the peanut butter has started to melt, about 30 minutes, stir and reduce heat to low.
- Cook on low heat for approximately 6 hours.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve over brown rice.