Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Thailand right to your dinner table. This healthy meal is not only keto-friendly and gluten-free but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish stands out with its creamy peanut sauce and tender chicken pieces, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of coconut milk and peanut butter creates a rich, delicious sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles to keep it low carb.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is designed to please everyone at the table, making mealtime stress-free.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this meal supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken requires minimal equipment, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious meal.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow Cooker
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors develop while you go about your day.
• Medium Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without mess, ensuring an easy mixing process.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for perfect flavor balance every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious dish:

For the Chicken

• 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 can coconut milk
• ½ cup peanut butter
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 3 tsp fish sauce
• to taste liquid stevia (or sweetener of choice)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Roasted Peanuts
• Cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add the chicken breast pieces to the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Coconut milk
2. Peanut butter
3. Minced garlic
4. Red curry paste
5. Fish sauce
6. Liquid stevia (start with about 1/4 tsp)

Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 4: Cook It Up!

Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve as is or over your choice of cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles. If desired, top with chopped peanuts and cilantro for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

This slow cooker Thai peanut chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation, making it a hit at your dinner table.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice provides a low-carb base that absorbs the rich peanut sauce, making every bite flavorful.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing and low-carb alternative to traditional wraps.

With Zucchini Noodles

• Zucchini noodles offer a light and healthy option that pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut sauce.

On Shirataki Noodles

• Shirataki noodles are an excellent low-carb choice that won’t add extra calories, allowing the chicken’s flavor to shine through.

Topped with Chopped Peanuts

• A sprinkle of roasted peanuts adds crunch and enhances the dish’s nutty flavor profile.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish and adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich sauce.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

To make your slow cooker Thai peanut chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choosing high-quality boneless skinless chicken breast ensures a tender and juicy outcome.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrients and color without significantly increasing carbs.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red curry paste based on your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking for improved texture and flavor melding.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, use low heat to prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker Thai peanut chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors while keeping it low carb.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds fiber and balances out the richness of the peanut sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: This crunchy vegetable brings a savory element that pairs well with Asian flavors.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic provides comfort without excess carbs.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing offers a cooling contrast to the spicy chicken.
5. Spicy Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with chili flakes add a touch of heat and vibrant color to your plate.
6. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: This low-carb twist on mac and cheese satisfies cravings while keeping things healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not seasoning the chicken – Ensure you season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding other ingredients. This enhances the flavor right from the start.
• Overlooking ingredient measurements – Be precise with your measurements, especially for the peanut butter and curry paste. Too much can overpower the dish.
• Skipping the stirring step – After pouring the sauce over the chicken, give it a good stir to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking on low for 5-6 hours often yields better results than high for 3-4 hours. Don’t rush the process!
• Serving without sides – While delicious on its own, consider serving over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to enhance texture and nutrition.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken | Low Carb?

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a healthy dish made with tender chicken cooked in a creamy peanut sauce, perfect for low-carb diets.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition or adjust the spice level by adding more or less curry paste.

Can I use different proteins?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb for varied flavors while keeping it low carb.

What are some side dishes that pair well?

Serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed vegetables to keep it low carb and delicious.

How long does this dish take to cook?

Cooking time varies from 5-6 hours on low to 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken is a versatile dish that brings together rich flavors while being healthy and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as is or with your favorite low-carb sides, this recipe offers plenty of room for customization. Give it a try, and you’ll have a family favorite on your hands!

---