Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this peanut butter chicken will become a favorite.
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Only 5 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Creamy and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves peanut butter chicken.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken, peanut butter, and pantry staples are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
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2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
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1/2 cup chicken broth (or water with 1/2 teaspoon salt)
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Peanut butter: Use creamy peanut butter.
Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor.
Soy sauce: Adds savory depth.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Layer the Chicken
Place the raw chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter
Spread the creamy peanut butter directly over the tops of the raw chicken breasts, covering them as evenly as you can.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the broth mixture around and over the peanut butter–coated chicken.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Use two forks to shred or chunk the chicken right in the slow cooker, stirring gently so the melted peanut butter and cooking juices combine into a smooth, creamy sauce. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or potatoes.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chicken
This creamy, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Noodles: Serve over egg noodles or rice noodles.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with cilantro or green onions.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Make It with Spice: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha.
Make It with Ginger: Add grated ginger.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Lime: Add lime juice.
Make It with Coconut Milk: Add coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Make It with Different Nut Butter: Use almond or cashew butter.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Simmer on the stove for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Spread the peanut butter evenly. This helps it melt into the sauce.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Shred the chicken before serving. This distributes the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken thighs or pork can be used.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes. Almond or cashew butter can be used.
Can I use a different broth?
Yes. Vegetable broth can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The chicken released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peppers or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes. They stay juicier.
The Beauty of Peanut Butter Chicken
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy chicken dish that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This poor man’s peanut butter chicken is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep peanut butter, broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
Yield: 4 servings