Taste the World

Chicken Satay Recipe Inspired by Thai Holiday Food

Last updated: May 2026

Chicken satay is inspired by the skewers you might find at Thai markets, beach stalls and casual holiday restaurants. This version uses a simple marinade and peanut-style sauce for an easy dinner or sharing plate.

Chicken satay travel-inspired recipe placeholder

Recipe Summary

Prep time
20 minutes
Cook time
15 minutes
Total time
35 minutes
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated cost
£8-£12
Cuisine
Thai
Inspired by
Thai markets and beach food

Ingredients

  • 600g chicken thighs, sliced into strips
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 3 tbsp peanut butter
  • 120ml coconut milk or water
  • 1 tsp sweet chilli sauce
  • Rice, cucumber and lime wedges, to serve

Method

  1. 1

    Mix curry powder, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar and oil, then coat the chicken.

  2. 2

    Thread the chicken onto skewers or leave as strips if you do not have skewers.

  3. 3

    Cook under a hot grill or in a frying pan for 12-15 minutes, turning until cooked through.

  4. 4

    Warm peanut butter with coconut milk or water and sweet chilli sauce to make a loose dipping sauce.

  5. 5

    Taste the sauce and add lime juice if it needs freshness.

  6. 6

    Serve the chicken with rice, cucumber and lime wedges.

Easy UK & European Ingredient Swaps

IngredientEasy swap
Fresh lemongrassLime zest with a little ginger
Palm sugarBrown sugar or honey
Coconut milkWater with a splash of milk for the sauce
Thai chilli sauceAny mild sweet chilli sauce

Budget Cooking Tips

  • Chicken thighs stay juicy and are usually cheaper than breast.
  • Skip wooden skewers and cook the strips in a pan if you want less setup.
  • Use peanut butter rather than specialist satay sauce.
  • Serve with rice and cucumber to turn skewers into a full meal.

Plan the Holiday Behind This Dish

Satay-style skewers fit the casual food mood of Thai markets, beach towns and late holiday dinners. If these flavours have you thinking of Thailand, use the confirmed budget travel links below to plan the next step.

Thailand Thailand holidays from the UK Explore guide → Asia Browse Asia holiday guides Explore guide → Vietnam Vietnam budget travel guide Explore guide → Cambodia Cambodia budget travel guide Explore guide →
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FAQs

Can I cook chicken satay without skewers?

Yes. Cook the marinated strips in a frying pan or under the grill, then serve with the sauce.

Can I make the satay sauce without coconut milk?

Yes. Loosen peanut butter with warm water and add lime juice, soy sauce and a little sweet chilli sauce.

Can I prepare chicken satay ahead?

Yes. Marinate the chicken for a few hours in the fridge, then cook just before serving.