Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

Explore the fusion of Italian and Thai cuisine with this unique spaghetti recipe. Incorporating chicken and Thai peanut sauce, this dish promises a delightful blend of flavors, offering a new twist to the classic spaghetti. With a touch of heat from the red pepper flakes and the creamy peanut butter sauce, it's not only incredibly satisfying but also easy to prepare.

Photos of Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

Some ingredients, like chunky peanut butter and dried red pepper flakes, might not be in your everyday pantry. Peanut butter is commonly available in most supermarkets, but ensure to pick the chunky variety for this recipe to add a nice texture. Dried red pepper flakes can be found in the spice aisle and can be adjusted according to your heat preference.

Ingredients for Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, it adds a salty and umami flavor.

Lime juice: Adds a tangy freshness that balances the richness of the peanut butter.

Cooking oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it ensures that the meat doesn't stick to the pan and also helps to evenly distribute the heat.

Garlic: A universal seasoning, providing a robust flavor.

Ground ginger: Gives a warm and spicy flavor.

Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, it is lean and cooks quickly.

Chunky peanut butter: Adds a creamy and nutty flavor to the sauce.

Chicken broth: Adds depth to the peanut sauce.

Sugar: Balances the savory elements.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

Dried red pepper flakes: Adds spiciness to the dish, can be adjusted according to preference.

Spaghetti: Serves as the base of the dish. It absorbs the sauce well and provides a satisfying bite.

Scallions: Provides a mild, onion-like flavor and adds a pop of color.

Peanuts: Gives extra crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.

One reader, Elroy Romano says:

This spaghetti with chicken and Thai peanut sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the combination of tender chicken and creamy peanut sauce is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a fusion of delicious flavors. Highly recommended!

Elroy Romano

Techniques Required

How to marinate the chicken: Combine soy sauce, lime juice, cooking oil, garlic, and ginger in a dish. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

How to make the peanut sauce: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, lime juice, peanut butter, chicken broth, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking until smooth.

How to grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan over moderate heat and cook the chicken until browned and just done, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

How to cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the spaghetti until just done, about 12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

How to assemble the dish: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the peanut sauce, sliced chicken, and scallions. Top with chopped peanuts before serving.

How To Make Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

Enjoy a marriage and two cuisines and elevate your usual spaghetti and chicken with a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet Thai peanut sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 17 minutes

Marinate Time: 10 minutes

Total: 42 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspsoy sauce,plus 1 tsp
2tbsplime juice,plus 2 tsp, (from about 2 limes)
1tbspcooking oil
4clovesgarlic
¾tspground ginger
3chicken breasts,boneless
½cupchunky peanut butter
1cuplow-sodium chicken broth,canned, or homemade stock
½tspsugar
½tspsalt
1tspdried red pepper flakes
¾lbspaghetti
3scallions,including green tops
1cuppeanuts,chopped, optional

Instructions

In a medium, shallow glass dish or stainless-steel pan, combine the 3 tablespoons soy sauce, the 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon of the oil, the garlic, and the ginger.
Add the chicken; turn to coat.
Let marinate at least 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a medium, stainless-steel saucepan, combine the remaining 1 teaspoon soy sauce and 2 teaspoons lime juice, the peanut butter, broth, sugar, salt, and red-pepper flakes.
Pour the marinade from the chicken into the saucepan and bring just to a simmer over moderate heat, whisking until smooth.
Heat a grill pan over moderate heat.
Cook the chicken until browned and just done. This will be about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Cut crosswise into ¼-inch slices.
Alternatively, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy frying pan.
Cook and slice the chicken in the same way.
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the spaghetti for about 12 minutes until just done.
Drain the pasta and toss with the peanut sauce, chicken, and scallions.
Top with the chopped peanuts, if using.

Nutrition

Calories: 1000.48kcal
Fat: 51.89g
Saturated Fat: 9.72g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 13.88g
Carbohydrates: 81.27g
Fiber: 8.02g
Sugar: 8.54g
Protein: 57.54g
Cholesterol: 83.52mg
Sodium: 890.20mg
Calcium: 103.11mg
Potassium: 1078.02mg
Iron: 4.91mg
Vitamin A: 39.66µg
Vitamin C: 5.42mg

Technique Tip for Making Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

When preparing the chicken, ensure it is fully coated in the marinade to maximize the flavor. The longer you can let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be. However, be careful not to over-marinate as it can make the chicken tough. A good rule of thumb is to marinate for at least 10 minutes but no longer than 24 hours. Also, when cooking the chicken, make sure to let it rest after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more moist and flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the peanut sauce a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Multitask: While the chicken is marinating, start boiling the water for the spaghetti and chop the scallions and peanuts.

Use store-bought: If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and store-bought peanut sauce to simplify the recipe.

One-pot cooking: Cook the spaghetti in the same pot where you prepare the peanut sauce to minimize clean-up and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion of the Thai peanut sauce and store the extra in the refrigerator for future use in other dishes.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar flavor profile, making it a suitable substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
Cooking oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of tropical flavor to the dish and works well with Thai-inspired recipes.
Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
Ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger can be used as a substitute for ground ginger, offering a more intense and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken, providing a source of protein and a neutral base for absorbing the flavors of the dish.
Chunky peanut butter - Substitute with smooth peanut butter: Smooth peanut butter can be used as a substitute for chunky peanut butter, providing a creamy texture to the sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the sauce.
Spaghetti - Substitute with rice noodles: Rice noodles can be used as a gluten-free alternative to spaghetti, complementing the Thai-inspired flavors of the dish.
Scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, providing a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
Peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for peanuts, providing a creamy and slightly sweet nutty flavor to the dish.

Presenting Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use colorful and vibrant ingredients to add visual appeal to the dish. Consider the use of fresh herbs and edible flowers for an elegant touch.
Incorporate texture: Add a variety of textures to the dish to create an exciting culinary experience. Consider incorporating crispy elements such as crushed peanuts or fried shallots to contrast with the tender chicken and al dente spaghetti.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the flavors are well-balanced and harmonious. The umami from the peanut sauce should complement the savory chicken and the subtle sweetness of the dish. Adjust the seasoning to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details of the presentation. Wipe the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation, and use tweezers to delicately place the sliced scallions and chopped peanuts for a polished finish.
Create height and dimension: Build the dish with varying heights and layers to create an appealing presentation. Consider using spiral plating techniques to add dimension to the dish and make it visually striking.
Artful drizzling: Use the Thai peanut sauce to create artful drizzles on the plate, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation. Practice controlled and deliberate movements to achieve elegant and artistic designs.
Garnish with precision: Garnish the dish with microgreens or herb sprigs with precision. Each element should be carefully placed to enhance the overall presentation without overwhelming the dish.
Attention to cleanliness: Prior to serving, ensure that the plate is clean and free of any smudges or spills. Attention to cleanliness demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Making This Spaghetti Recipe

Medium, shallow glass dish or stainless-steel pan: This is used for marinating the chicken in the soy sauce, lime juice, oil, garlic, and ginger.
Grill pan: This is used to cook the chicken until it is browned and just done, adding a nice grilled flavor to the dish.
Heavy frying pan: This can be used as an alternative to the grill pan for cooking the chicken.
Medium, stainless-steel saucepan: This is used to prepare the Thai peanut sauce by combining the peanut butter, broth, sugar, salt, red-pepper flakes, and marinade from the chicken.
Large pot of boiling, salted water: This is used to cook the spaghetti until it is just done.

How To Store and Freeze This Spaghetti Dish

To store leftover spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce, place the container in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the thawed dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or water to restore the sauce's consistency if needed.
Pro tip: Portion the spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce into individual serving sizes before freezing for convenient, quick meals later on. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need without having to defrost the entire batch.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Transfer the leftover spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. The damp paper towel helps to create steam, which keeps the pasta moist.
If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, you can reheat the leftover spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce in a skillet. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir gently until the dish is heated through and the liquid has been absorbed. This method allows you to control the moisture level and achieve a more al dente texture.
For a more flavorful twist, you can add some fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas to the skillet while reheating the spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender-crisp before adding the leftovers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds some extra nutrients to your meal.
If you want to maintain the original texture and flavor of the dish, you can reheat the leftover spaghetti with chicken and thai peanut sauce using a double boiler. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the leftovers in a heat-safe bowl that fits on top of the pot, ensuring that the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Cover the bowl and let the dish heat through, stirring occasionally. This gentle reheating method helps to preserve the original flavors and textures of the dish.

Random Fact about Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce

The Thai peanut sauce used in this recipe is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can also be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or as a marinade for grilled meats. It adds a deliciously nutty and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, making it a perfect addition to any Asian-inspired meal.

Is This Spaghetti Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this spaghetti with chicken and Thai peanut sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. Chicken, peanut butter, and spaghetti are generally affordable, while items like scallions and peanuts may vary in price. The use of common pantry staples like soy sauce and cooking oil adds to the recipe's affordability. Considering the overall cost and the potential to feed a family of four, this recipe could be rated a 7/10 for cost-effectiveness, with an estimated cost of $15-$20 for a household of four people.

Is This Spaghetti Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spaghetti with chicken and Thai peanut sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the peanut butter and peanuts, and some nutrients from the scallions. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of sodium from the soy sauce and added salt, as well as saturated fat from the peanut butter. The spaghetti itself is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the regular spaghetti with whole wheat or quinoa spaghetti to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of soy sauce and salt used in the recipe to lower the sodium content
Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter to minimize added sugars and unhealthy fats
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to boost the nutrient density
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to further reduce the sodium content
Use fresh red chili peppers instead of dried red pepper flakes for a more vibrant flavor and added vitamin C

By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional profile of the dish while still maintaining its delicious Thai-inspired flavors. Additionally, pairing the meal with a side salad or steamed vegetables can further increase the overall nutrient content and create a more balanced plate.

Editor's Opinion on This Spaghetti Recipe

The combination of tender grilled chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich Thai peanut sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty and aromatic notes, while the creamy peanut sauce adds depth and richness to the dish. The addition of scallions and chopped peanuts provides a delightful crunch and freshness. The wine recommendation of a kabinett riesling from the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region of Germany is a thoughtful touch, offering a perfect balance to the Asian-inspired spices. This recipe promises a delightful culinary journey with every bite.

Enhance Your Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roast the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a flavorful and crispy side dish.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Toss carrots in a mixture of honey and sriracha before roasting for a sweet and spicy kick.

Mango Avocado Salad: Combine ripe mango and creamy avocado with a tangy lime dressing for a refreshing and tropical side salad.

Coconut Curry Sweet Potato Soup: Simmer sweet potatoes in a coconut curry broth for a creamy and comforting soup with a hint of spice.

Caramelized Pineapple with Vanilla Ice Cream: Sauté pineapple slices in butter and brown sugar, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Spaghetti Dish

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of lemon and herbs gives the chicken a refreshing and flavorful taste.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: These fish tacos are topped with a fresh and vibrant mango salsa, adding a tropical twist to a classic dish.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Coconut Curry Shrimp: This creamy and aromatic coconut curry shrimp is a delicious and comforting dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or naan bread.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: This chia seed pudding is a nutritious and indulgent dessert, made with fresh berries and creamy coconut milk for a guilt-free treat.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Spaghetti and Thai Peanut Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and flavorful caprese skewers. Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with balsamic glaze, make for a refreshing and elegant starter.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a fusion of flavors, combining the richness of peanut butter with the zing of lime juice and the savory depth of soy sauce. The use of chicken breasts ensures a lean protein source, while the addition of garlic and ginger infuses aromatic complexity. The inclusion of scallions and peanuts adds a delightful crunch. The careful balance of spices and sauce creates a harmonious dish that promises to tantalize the taste buds with every bite.

Have you tried this delicious Spaghetti with Chicken and Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe yet? Let us know your thoughts or any variations you've made in the Recipe Sharing section of the forum.

FAQ:

What type of peanuts should I use for this recipe?

You can use unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts for this recipe. If you prefer a different type of peanut, feel free to use that instead.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Linguine, fettuccine, or even rice noodles would work well with the Thai peanut sauce and chicken.

Is there a substitute for chunky peanut butter?

If you don't have chunky peanut butter, you can use smooth peanut butter instead. The chunky peanut butter adds a nice texture, but smooth peanut butter will still give you a delicious sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Thai peanut sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also cook the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken while you cook the pasta.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the ingredients you choose.