Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken skewers served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. This dish is inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, combining sweet, savory, and spicy elements for an irresistible meal. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or with a side of rice and salad, this satay chicken is a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Rich and Creamy Peanut Sauce: The homemade satay sauce is packed with bold flavors.
- Juicy, Marinated Chicken: A simple but effective marinade keeps the chicken tender.
- Perfect for Grilling or Pan-Frying: Cook it on a BBQ, grill, or stovetop for convenience.
- Great for Entertaining: These skewers make a fantastic party dish.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to suit your taste.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
What is Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken?
Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a Southeast Asian-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken skewers grilled or pan-fried to perfection and served with a rich peanut-based sauce. The sauce combines peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and aromatic spices for a bold and balanced taste.
Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
A well-balanced marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavors.
- 500g chicken breast or thigh fillets (cut into strips)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Satay Sauce:
The creamy peanut sauce is the star of this dish, balancing sweetness, saltiness, and spice.
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 150ml coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
For Garnish and Serving:
Fresh toppings and sides complement the rich flavors of satay chicken.
- Fresh coriander (chopped)
- Crushed peanuts
- Lime wedges
- Steamed jasmine rice or cucumber salad
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
A good marinade enhances the taste and keeps the chicken juicy.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, lime juice, honey, cumin, coriander, turmeric, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Add the chicken strips and toss until well-coated.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Satay Sauce
A smooth, creamy sauce ties the dish together with rich, nutty flavors.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili flakes, and minced garlic.
- Stir in coconut milk and sesame oil, mixing until smooth.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, adding water if needed to adjust consistency.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Using skewers makes the chicken easy to grill and serve.
- Thread the marinated chicken strips onto wooden or metal skewers.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cooking the chicken properly ensures it stays tender and juicy.
- Grilling Method: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the chicken skewers for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Final touches make this dish even more delicious.
- Place the skewers on a serving plate.
- Drizzle or serve with satay sauce on the side.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fresh coriander.
- Serve with lime wedges, steamed rice, or a crisp cucumber salad.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken
Pairing the dish with the right sides enhances the meal’s flavors and textures.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A light and fluffy base to soak up the satay sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the creamy peanut sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant pair well with the skewers.
- Roti or Flatbread: A great way to scoop up the sauce.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and spice.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken
Following these tips will ensure tender, flavorful chicken and a perfect peanut sauce.
- Use Chicken Thighs for More Juiciness: They retain moisture better than chicken breast.
- Let the Chicken Marinate Longer: A longer marination results in more flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Add more water if it’s too thick, or let it simmer longer if too runny.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry, so cook just until done.
- Use a Charcoal Grill for Authentic Flavor: The smoky char enhances the dish.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken
This dish can be easily modified to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce.
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Coconut-Free Version: Use regular cream or yogurt instead of coconut milk.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken?
Proper storage ensures that the chicken stays fresh and flavorful.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze marinated uncooked chicken for up to 2 months.
- Best Storage Tip: Keep the sauce and chicken separate for better reheating.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken Leftovers?
Reheating the chicken properly maintains its juicy texture.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Microwave Approach: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid overheating.
- Oven Method: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
This dish is packed with protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs low.
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make satay chicken without skewers?
Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken as whole fillets or chunks in a pan or grill without skewers.
What is the best peanut butter for satay sauce?
Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oil for the best flavor and texture.
Can I prepare satay sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
How do I make satay chicken more authentic?
For a more authentic taste, add fresh lemongrass and a splash of fish sauce to the marinade.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the delicious taste of Southeast Asia to your kitchen. With juicy, marinated chicken skewers and a rich peanut sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Print
Jamie Oliver Satay Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or pan-frying
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Satay Chicken is a Southeast Asian-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken skewers grilled or pan-fried to perfection and served with a rich peanut-based sauce. The sauce combines peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and aromatic spices for a bold and balanced taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
A well-balanced marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavors.
- 500g chicken breast or thigh fillets (cut into strips)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Satay Sauce:
The creamy peanut sauce is the star of this dish, balancing sweetness, saltiness, and spice.
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 150ml coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
For Garnish and Serving:
Fresh toppings and sides complement the rich flavors of satay chicken.
- Fresh coriander (chopped)
- Crushed peanuts
- Lime wedges
- Steamed jasmine rice or cucumber salad
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
A good marinade enhances the taste and keeps the chicken juicy.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, lime juice, honey, cumin, coriander, turmeric, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Add the chicken strips and toss until well-coated.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Satay Sauce
A smooth, creamy sauce ties the dish together with rich, nutty flavors.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili flakes, and minced garlic.
- Stir in coconut milk and sesame oil, mixing until smooth.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, adding water if needed to adjust consistency.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Using skewers makes the chicken easy to grill and serve.
- Thread the marinated chicken strips onto wooden or metal skewers.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cooking the chicken properly ensures it stays tender and juicy.
- Grilling Method: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the chicken skewers for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Final touches make this dish even more delicious.
- Place the skewers on a serving plate.
- Drizzle or serve with satay sauce on the side.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fresh coriander.
- Serve with lime wedges, steamed rice, or a crisp cucumber salad.