Peanut Butter Chicken Power Skillet
This vibrant one‑pan skillet delivers a protein‑rich punch of flavor with an unforgettable peanut‑ginger glaze. The bright veggies keep the dish light while the creamy peanut sauce adds a subtle nutty sweetness. Serve it with a side of steamed rice or as a stand‑alone meal for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- • 6 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced 1‑inch cubes
- • 1 cup broccoli florets
- • 1 cup bell pepper mix, sliced (red, yellow, orange)
- • ½ cup snap peas
- • ½ cup carrot, thinly sliced
- • 1 tbsp olive oil
- • 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- • 2 tsp soy sauce (low‑sodium)
- • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- • 1 tsp rice vinegar
- • 1 clove garlic, minced
- • 1 tsp fresh ginger, freshly grated
- • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- • Salt and pepper, to taste
- • 2 tbsp sliced green onions, for garnish
- • 1 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts, for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat.
- 2. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet until golden brown on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- 3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrot; sauté for 3–4 minutes until crisp‑tender.
- 4. While the vegetables cook, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until smooth.
- 5. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour the peanut sauce over the mixture, and stir to coat evenly.
- 6. Reduce heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra soy sauce as needed.
- 8. Transfer the skillet’s contents to a serving platter and sprinkle with green onions and roasted peanuts.
- 9. Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Chef's Note
Pro tip: Allow the skillet to rest for 2 minutes after cooking; this lets the sauce thicken perfect for coating the chicken and veggies.
Make-Ahead Tips
Let the dish cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring halfway through.
Substitutions
• Replace chicken with firm tofu cubes for a vegetarian option.
• Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
• Swap red pepper flakes with smoked paprika for a smoky note.