Chicken Satay – Southeast Asian skewers of marinated grilled chicken served with peanut sauce

Introduction

Chicken Satay is a beloved Southeast Asian dish that encapsulates the flavors of marinated grilled chicken skewers, often served with rich and creamy peanut sauce. A staple at street food stalls in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, this dish is cherished for its deliciously smoky taste and the aromatic spices that penetrate every bite. Prices for Chicken Satay typically range between $5 to $10 in restaurants like Sate Khas Senayan in Jakarta or the bustling markets of Singapore.

For those on a keto diet seeking a flavorful twist, our keto version ensures you can savor the taste of Chicken Satay without the carbs. With its endless charm and scrumptious allure, this dish appeals to both traditionalists and health-conscious food lovers alike, inviting you to enjoy both the classic and keto alternatives.

Origin and Inspiration

Chicken Satay is rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, where the practice of grilling marinated meats has thrived for centuries. This dish likely originated on the Indonesian island of Java, where locals skillfully use skewers to cook succulent pieces of chicken over open flames, allowing the natural flavors to sing and mingle. Traditionally, Chicken Satay is served with peanut sauce—an invention that highlights the harmony of flavors found in the region.

Throughout Southeast Asia, variations of satay can be found, ranging from beef to lamb, each marinated uniquely, yet sharing that signature smoky essence. The keto adaptation of Chicken Satay maintains the classic marinade’s vibrance while using low-carb ingredients. Picture juicy chicken infused with the warmth of turmeric and the sweetness of coconut aminos—this keto version enhances the experience without the extra carbs, transforming your meal into a guilt-free delight.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version

Calories: 280 kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Keto Version

Calories: 250 kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 850mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (or soy sauce for traditional)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or erythritol for keto)
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (unsweetened for keto)
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk (or regular milk for traditional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Traditional Version:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for grilling
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

Keto Version:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil for grilling
• Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice for added flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   In a bowl, combine turmeric, garlic powder, ground coriander, coconut aminos, brown sugar, and optional fish sauce for the traditional version. Stir until the ingredients amalgamate, filling the kitchen with an aromatic blend. Toss in chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, letting the flavors seep into the meat.

2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce:

   For the peanut sauce, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, and keto-friendly erythritol in a saucepan over low heat until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. The nutty fragrance lingers as you heat it gently.

3. Skewer and Cook:

   Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, keeping them snug yet not overcrowded. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan. With a satisfying sizzle, drizzle olive oil for the keto version or vegetable oil for the traditional onto the surface. Grill skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until beautifully charred and cooked through, captivating you with their tantalizing aroma.

4. Final Assembly and Serving:

   Once cooked, transfer the chicken satay to a serving platter. Serve warm, paired generously with your rich peanut sauce. Add lime wedges for an extra zing, bringing a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken.

What Does It Pair Well With?

Traditional Pairings:

• Thai Jasmine Rice: A fluffy side that soaks up the delicious peanut sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and spice, harmonizing beautifully with Chicken Satay.
• Iced Thai Tea: Its creamy richness complements the savory dish and helps the flavors meld together.

Keto-Friendly Pairings:

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that maintains the comforting element of rice without the carbs.
• Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, these add a crisp contrast to the grilled satay flavors.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that elevates the overall dining experience, perfect for cleansing the palate.

What is the Shelf Life?

Chicken Satay is best enjoyed fresh to savor the grilled flavor and tender texture of the chicken. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra satay, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or reheat them on a grill pan to retain juiciness and flavor.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place skewers on a lined baking sheet—broil for 5 minutes on each side for even cooking.
• Air Fryer: If using an air fryer, cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for perfectly charred chicken.
• Stovetop Grilling: For a quick option, use a stovetop grill pan for beautiful grill marks and crispy edges.

Conclusion: Traditional and Keto Versions

Whether you indulge in the classic Chicken Satay or opt for the keto-friendly version, both deliver a burst of delightful flavors and aroma, each bite revealing a new layer of taste. The succulent chicken, marinated to perfection and grilled to a satisfying char, paired with creamy peanut sauce, ensures a memorable culinary experience. As a fantastic addition to any meal or as a satisfying snack, Chicken Satay draws food lovers together through its universal appeal and captivating flavors—an unmatched treasure of the Southeast Asian culinary scene!