
Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Cut used: Tenderloin chicken →
Prep
20 min (plus 2 hr marinade)
Cook
10 min
Total
2 hr 30 min
Satay is one of the best applications for chicken tenderloins, since their naturally long, narrow shape threads perfectly onto skewers for even grilling. A marinade built on coconut milk, turmeric, and lemongrass-style aromatics tenderizes the meat while infusing it with deep flavor before it hits the grill. The accompanying peanut sauce, rich with garlic and a touch of chili, is what makes satay unforgettable.
What Ingredients Do You Need?
- 1.5 lbs Chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup Coconut milk
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Ground turmeric
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1/2 cup Creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Sriracha
- 1/4 cup, as needed Warm water
- 12 Wooden skewers, soaked in water
How Do You Make Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
- 1
Marinate the chicken
Whisk coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, turmeric, coriander, half the garlic, and curry powder. Add tenderloins and marinate 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
- 2
Skewer the chicken
Thread each tenderloin lengthwise onto a soaked wooden skewer in a ribbon pattern.
- 3
Make the peanut sauce
Whisk peanut butter, remaining garlic, lime juice, sriracha, and enough warm water to reach a pourable consistency.
- 4
Preheat the grill
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
- 5
Grill the skewers
Grill skewers 3-4 minutes per side until charred at the edges and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- 6
Rest and serve
Let rest briefly, then serve with the peanut sauce for dipping.
What Are the Pro Tips for This Recipe?
- 💡 Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes so they don't scorch on the grill.
- 💡 Thread the chicken in a ribboned S-shape rather than straight through for more even cooking.
- 💡 The peanut sauce thickens as it sits, so thin with a little extra water before serving if needed.
- 💡 A grill pan works well indoors if you don't have an outdoor grill.






