“Sizzle, pop, and the delightful aroma of marinated chicken wafting through the kitchen—there’s just something magical about it. This Easy Indonesian Chicken Thighs in Soy-Peanut Marinade brings that magic right to your dinner table, transforming ordinary weeknights into something extraordinary. Inspired by Ina Garten’s take on bold flavors, this low-carb recipe lets the savory soy-peanut dressing work its wonders, enveloping bone-in, skin-on thighs in a rich taste that promises to please your palate. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily grilled or roasted, making it perfect for any cooking style and ready in just 45 minutes! Curious about how to achieve tender, juicy chicken with a crisp finish? Let’s dive in and explore the steps to elevate your home cooking!”
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Easy Preparation: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this dish, making it ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
Flavor Explosion: The soy-peanut marinade infuses the chicken with bold, savory flavors that are simply irresistible.
Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those watching their carbs, it can easily be made keto-friendly by swapping the honey!
Perfectly Versatile: Grill or roast it to suit your preference and enjoy a meal that suits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: This chicken is sure to impress family and friends at gatherings—serve it alongside a fresh salad or even Cajun Chicken Pasta for a fulfilling feast!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Soy Sauce – Adds essential saltiness and umami flavor to the dish.
- Honey – Provides sweetness and aids in caramelization; substitute with a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly option.
- Peanut Butter – Offers a creamy texture and nutty flavor; opt for creamy natural peanut butter for best results.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds a necessary acidity that balances the richness of the marinade.
- Ginger – Freshly grated for an aromatic, warm spice that enhances flavor depth.
- Garlic – Minced garlic contributes a delightful depth and aromatic quality.
- Ground Cumin – Introduces earthy warmth—perfect for enriching the overall flavor profile.
- Ground Coriander – Gives a lovely citrusy note that complements the other ingredients.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Imparts mild heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a rich nuttiness that layers the flavors beautifully.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the marinade, adding a fresh, zesty zing.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for retaining juiciness during cooking.
For Garnish
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the finished dish.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – Enhances flavor and gives a pleasing crunch to the presentation.
Unleash the magic of this Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe with these ingredients and prepare to wow your dinner guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or a low-carb sweetener), peanut butter, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes (if using), sesame oil, and lime juice. Continue mixing until the marinade is smooth and well combined, creating a fragrant base that will elevate the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken recipe.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag, allowing ample space for the marinade to coat each piece thoroughly. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well covered. Seal and refrigerate for a minimum of two hours, ideally overnight, letting the flavors deeply infuse into the chicken for a truly delicious outcome.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Cooking Surface
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or if you prefer roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For grilling, lightly oil the grates for easy release, while for roasting, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for effortless cleanup. Both methods will bring out the the rich flavors of your marinated chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
For the grill, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down and grill for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until the skin is beautifully charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If roasting, arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally with leftover marinade. Watch for a golden-brown color and crispy skin as visual cues for doneness.
Step 5: Serve with Garnish
Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature and is beautifully cooked, remove it from the grill or oven. Let it rest for a few minutes to seal in the juices. Serve it warm, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This finishing touch will elevate your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken recipe, offering a burst of freshness and flavor in every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Indonesian Chicken Thighs in Soy-Peanut Marinade are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those rich flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply whisk together the marinade and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 2 hours. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is covered completely in the marinade to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, either grill or roast the marinated chicken, and you’ll have a delicious meal that feels effortless and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe
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Marinate Longer: For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the soy-peanut marinade to infuse deeply into the meat.
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Bone-In Advantage: Always opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They not only stay juicier during cooking but also develop a crispy skin that enhances the dish.
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Grill vs. Roast: Choose your cooking method based on your available time. Grilling offers a smoky flavor, while roasting allows for easier basting; both are delicious!
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee juicy and safe chicken.
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Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade. Start with a little and taste as you go for your preferred spice level.
Variations & Substitutions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic!
- Keto-Friendly: Substitute honey with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia for a guilt-free treat.
- Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for easier, quicker cooking. Just reduce the cooking time slightly!
- Herb Swap: Replace fresh cilantro with aromatic Thai basil for a unique, fragrant twist that brings a hint of the tropics.
- Nut-Free: For a nut-free version, swap peanut butter with sunbutter or tahini, maintaining that creamy texture without allergens.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the marinade for an extra boost of heat.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate orange juice or zest to the marinade for a bright citrus profile, lifting the dish’s flavor even further.
- Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic to the marinade for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor that compliments the richness of the chicken.
- Flavorful Glaze: After cooking, drizzle with a mixture of soy sauce and honey (or sweetener) for a glossy finish that enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
Now that you’re inspired to experiment, don’t forget to check out delicious pairings like Cajun Chicken Pasta or One Pan Chicken to create a stunning meal!
Storage Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe
Fridge: Store marinated or cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Use it to flavor additional dishes or as a dipping sauce for vegetables!
What to Serve with Easy Indonesian Chicken Thighs in Soy-Peanut Marinade?
Delight your senses with a balanced array of sides that elevate the fragrant flavors of your marinated chicken.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice soaks up the rich soy-peanut marinade, providing a comforting base for your vibrant chicken.
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Crisp Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad brings a cool crunch, balancing the savory warmth of the chicken with a zesty vinegar dressing.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: With its tender leaves and crunchy stems, tender bok choy adds a nutritious touch while complementing the dish’s Asian-inspired flavors.
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Roasted Broccoli: Nutty and caramelized, roasted broccoli fits beautifully alongside the chicken, offering a hearty texture and color.
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Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet caramelized pineapple adds a tropical flair—a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Chilled Asian Noodle Salad: A light, tangy noodle salad brings freshness, making for a refreshing counterpart to the warm, savory chicken.
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Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: For dessert, this creamy pudding adds a sweet finish, providing a lovely contrast to the savory and slightly spicy chicken.
Each pairing enhances the dish’s harmonious flavors, ensuring a memorable dining experience!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is highly recommended. This cut helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy during cooking, and the skin becomes crispy, adding delicious texture and flavor to the dish.
How long can I store the marinated or cooked chicken?
You can store marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you have leftovers or cooked chicken, it can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze the chicken after marinating it?
Absolutely! If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the cooking instructions as usual.
What should I do if I accidentally over-marinate the chicken?
If you’ve marinated the chicken for too long (beyond 24 hours), you might find it becomes too salty or mushy. To remedy this, try rinsing the chicken under cold water before cooking to remove excess marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels, then proceed with grilling or roasting.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Since this is an Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken recipe that uses peanut butter, it is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. If you’re looking for a nut-free variation, consider using sunflower seed butter or tahini as a substitute, adjusting the flavors to match your palate while keeping safety in mind.
Delicious Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or low-carb sweetener), peanut butter, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes (if using), sesame oil, and lime juice until smooth.
- Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over, and ensure all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). For grilling, oil the grates and for roasting, line a baking sheet with foil.
- Grill the chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway until the internal temperature is 165°F. For roasting, arrange on the baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro and sesame seeds.
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