Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is an exceptional dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine right to your dinner table. It’s an easy, healthy option for busy weeknights, perfect for meal prep or family gatherings. This recipe is not only keto-friendly and gluten-free but also packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it until mealtime.
• Flavorful Dish: The rich combination of coconut milk and peanut butter creates a creamy, savory sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb delight.
• Family-Friendly Meal: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken requires minimal kitchen tools. Having the right tools will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken while you go about your day.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your sauce ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise amounts of each ingredient for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• salt and pepper

For the 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)

For 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 to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. The coconut milk
2. The peanut butter
3. The minced garlic
4. The red curry paste
5. The fish sauce
6. Liquid stevia to taste

Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Gently stir to ensure all pieces are coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook

Set your slow cooker on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let it simmer until the chicken is tender and infused with flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, serve your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken as is or over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles. If desired, top with chopped roasted peanuts and cilantro for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Serving Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is easy and versatile. This dish pairs well with a variety of healthy sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice absorbs the delicious peanut sauce beautifully.

With Zucchini Noodles

• Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles provide a great base for this dish while keeping it low in carbs.

On Shirataki Noodles

• These noodles are made from konjac yam and are extremely low in calories, making them the perfect complement to the hearty chicken.

Topped with Roasted Peanuts

• Adding roasted peanuts gives a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the dish.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the peanut sauce.

Served in Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the chicken in large lettuce leaves for a crunchy, low-carb bite.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose quality chicken: Use fresh, boneless skinless chicken breast for tender results.
• Adjust spice level: If you prefer more heat, add extra red curry paste or some chopped chili peppers.
• Let it marinate: For deeper flavors, let the chicken marinate in the peanut sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use natural peanut butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
• Check doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A nutritious side that adds color and crunch; steam until tender but still vibrant green.
2. Garlic Green Beans
   Sauté green beans with garlic for a quick and tasty addition that complements the main dish well.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad with sliced cucumbers tossed in a light dressing; it’s cool and crisp against the warm chicken.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These can be roasted until crispy and seasoned simply with salt and pepper for an earthy flavor contrast.
5. Spicy Radish Slaw
   Thinly sliced radishes mixed with lime juice and chili flakes create a zesty side that cuts through richness.
6. Keto-Friendly Coleslaw
   A creamy coleslaw made with cabbage and a sugar-free dressing makes for a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
7. Avocado Salad
   Sliced avocado drizzled with lime juice offers creamy richness without adding many carbs.
8. Riced Broccoli or Cauliflower Medley
   Combine riced broccoli or cauliflower with herbs and spices to echo the flavors of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a delicious outcome.

• Using the wrong chicken pieces: Always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture. Avoid using chicken with bones or skin, as they can alter cooking times and results.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Not stirring the sauce: Ensure you mix the peanut butter sauce well before pouring it over the chicken. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the dish.
• Cooking on high for too long: If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is fine, but avoid exceeding this time. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken.
• Neglecting garnishes: Adding toppings like chopped peanuts and cilantro elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

• To freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb?

Serve it over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely throughout the week.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for meal planning or a quick weeknight dinner. Try customizing it with your favorite veggies or serving styles to make it your own!

---