Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Peanut Sauce

Name: Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon ginger (grated); 1/2 cup coconut milk (full-fat)

55 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Tender oven-baked chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy peanut sauce for a delightful dinner.

Prep

15 min

Cook

40 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Transform your dinner table with these succulent oven-baked chicken thighs, luxuriously coated in a creamy peanut sauce. This dish marries the richness of peanut butter with the savoury notes of soy sauce and the tanginess of lime juice, creating a symphony of flavours that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is simple to prepare yet offers complex flavours. The oven-baked method ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the peanut sauce adds a layer of irresistible creaminess.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pro tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.

Prepare the chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up. Season with salt and pepper.

Create the peanut sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Gradually stir in coconut milk until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the consistency by adding more coconut milk if needed.

Pour sauce over chicken

Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the baking dish.

Bake the chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh.

Rest and serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

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Tips & Tricks

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut sauce.
Use skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for the juiciest results.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for extra flavour and texture.
Serve with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They may cook slightly faster, so check for doneness around 25-30 minutes.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peanut sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of water or coconut milk until it reaches the desired consistency.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This oven-baked chicken thighs with peanut sauce is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce. Make-ahead tip: Prepare the peanut sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.