Name: Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breast fillets, thinly sliced against the grain (about 500 to 600g); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine; 2 teaspoons cornflour; ¾ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda; ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper; 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (canola, rice bran, or vegetable oil); 1 large brown onion, cut into large cubes; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1 ½ teaspoons caster sugar; ⅓ cup smooth peanut butter; 1-2 tablespoons Jimmy’s Satay Sauce, adjust to taste; ½ – 1 cup water, added gradually; 2 cups lightly steamed broccoli florets (optional); Cooked jasmine or long grain rice; Sliced spring onions (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving something vibrant, packed with flavor, and quick to whip up, this Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is your new go-to dinner! It balances tender, velvety chicken with a luscious peanut satay sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. The dish is a fantastic way to bring a bit of Asian-inspired magic to your kitchen, complete with a satisfying mix of textures and colors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe promises a delicious feast that feels both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of many pieces of cooked chicken mixed with sliced onions in a pan. The chicken pieces are golden brown with a shiny, slightly saucy texture. The onions, cut into thick pieces, are translucent and yellowish, spread evenly among the chicken. A black cooking spoon lies on top of the mixture with a little sauce on it. The background is dark inside the pan, focusing on the cooked food, with no other items visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but vital to building the signature flavor and texture of the Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. Each one plays a key role—from tenderizing the chicken to creating that creamy, nutty sauce that makes this dish so irresistible.

Chicken breast fillets (2 large): Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness and quick cooking.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth and helps to marinate the chicken.
Chinese cooking wine (1 tablespoon): Works perfectly to tenderize and infuse subtle aromatic flavor.
Cornflour (2 teaspoons): Essential for velveting the chicken and creating a smooth texture.
Bicarbonate of soda (¾ teaspoon): Helps soften the chicken to juicy perfection.
Ground white pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat without overpowering other spices.
Neutral cooking oil (2 tablespoons): Such as canola or vegetable oil, perfect for high-heat stir-frying.
Large brown onion (1): Cut into large cubes to bring sweetness and crunch.
Curry powder (1 teaspoon): Contributes a warm, aromatic base flavor.
Caster sugar (1 ½ teaspoons): Balances the savory and spicy notes with a touch of sweetness.
Smooth peanut butter (⅓ cup): The heart of the satay sauce, creamy and rich.
Jimmy’s Saté Sauce (1-2 tablespoons): Adjustable for your preferred spice level and authentic flavor boost.
Water (½ to 1 cup): Gradually added to create the perfect sauce consistency.
Lightly steamed broccoli florets (2 cups, optional): Adds freshness, color, and crunch to the dish.
Cooked jasmine or long grain rice: The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.
Sliced spring onions (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens every bite.

How to Make Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Velvet the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken so it cooks up tender and juicy. In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, cornflour, bicarbonate of soda, and white pepper. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. Marinating not only adds flavor but also creates that silky texture that makes the chicken in this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Stir Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 teaspoons of your chosen neutral oil in a wok or large non-stick pan over high heat. Add half the chicken in a single layer, allowing it to sit undisturbed for about 30 to 60 seconds to develop a light golden color. Then stir-fry the chicken until it’s just cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. Repeat this with the remaining chicken to ensure every piece gets that perfect sear without overcrowding the pan.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pan, add the remaining oil and toss in the onion cubes. Stir-fry for about one minute until they start softening. Sprinkle in the curry powder and caster sugar, stirring to release the spices’ fragrant aromas. Then return all the chicken to the pan and cook together for another minute. This step layers the flavors and prepares a cozy foundation for the peanut sauce.

Step 4: Make the Satay Sauce

Add the smooth peanut butter and Jimmy’s Saté Sauce directly to the chicken and onion mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Start adding water gradually, stirring as you go, until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness. Some like it thick and creamy; others prefer a more saucy stir fry. This gradual addition of water lets you control the texture perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Broccoli and Serve

If you’re using broccoli, throw the lightly steamed florets into the pan now and stir until everything is heated through. This bursts with vibrant color and adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness. Serve your Satay Chicken Stir Fry over steaming jasmine or long-grain rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle some sliced spring onions on top if you have them for that final hit of freshness.

How to Serve Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

A white bowl filled with a layer of white rice at the bottom. On top of the rice, there is a layer of light brown cooked chicken pieces mixed with browned onion slices and bright green broccoli florets. The chicken pieces have a smooth texture coated with a light sauce. The broccoli is vibrant and fresh looking with a rough texture. A silver spoon is placed in the bowl resting on the side with a white marbled surface beneath it. In the background, there are small white bowls of green peas and white rice, and a green plant. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe, sprinkling sliced spring onions on top adds a lovely brightness and a little crunch. You can also toss on some toasted sesame seeds for extra texture or fresh coriander leaves if you love a herbal touch. These little details transform a simple stir fry into a feast for the eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fragrant jasmine or long-grain rice, which helps soak up the luscious satay sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber salad. Asian-style pickled vegetables also work wonders, offering a tangy contrast to the creamy peanut flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to turn your Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe into an impressive dinner party dish, consider serving it in vibrant bowls topped with crushed roasted peanuts and thin strips of fresh red chili for heat and color. Another fun idea is to wrap the stir fry in warm lettuce leaves or flatbreads for a handheld experience that’s as delicious as it is unexpected.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Satay Chicken Stir Fry left over, cool it down within an hour and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or a quick dinner solution.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, which is perfect if you want to batch-cook ahead. Freeze the cooled stir fry in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the broccoli may change slightly after freezing, so you might want to add fresh vegetables when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Satay Chicken Stir Fry gently in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and restore the sauce’s creaminess. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly against the grain for quicker cooking and tender bites in your Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of cooking wine. The peanut sauce remains the star, making this just as satisfying for veggie lovers.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends largely on how much Jimmy’s Saté Sauce you add. You can easily adjust it to your preference by starting with less and adding more if you want a bigger kick.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can! Make the satay sauce in advance and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, combine it with the stir-fried chicken and veggies for quick assembly.

What’s the best way to steam broccoli quickly?

The easiest way is to microwave the broccoli florets with a splash of water in a covered dish for 2–3 minutes. Alternatively, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute then immediately plunge into ice water to keep the color vibrant.

Final Thoughts

The Satay Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a brilliant mix of simplicity and bold flavor that truly shines whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and deeply satisfying. Give it a try and experience firsthand how this dish can brighten your weeknight meals with delicious Asian flair!