Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken – Healthy and High Protein Lunch!

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who has spent years exploring kitchens around the globe, chasing flavors that tell stories and nourish the body. Among the countless dishes I’ve enjoyed, there’s one that never fails to excite my taste buds while also keeping me energized throughout the day: Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken. This recipe captures everything I love about Thai-inspired cooking – bold flavors, creamy sauces, and that perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and nuttiness.

What makes this dish so special is not only its incredible flavor but also its nutritional value. Packed with lean protein from tender chicken breasts, healthy fats from natural peanut butter, and the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables, it’s a meal that fuels both body and soul. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, serving a wholesome family lunch, or just craving something satisfying yet healthy, this recipe is your go-to. Every bite feels indulgent, yet it’s built on pure, nourishing ingredients.

Overview of Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken is the definition of a healthy comfort meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. With its creamy peanut sauce infused with garlic, ginger, chili, and lime, it delivers an irresistible fusion of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Each bite is a satisfying combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a luscious peanut sauce that ties everything together beautifully.

From a nutritional perspective, this dish shines as a high-protein lunch. Chicken breast provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and sustained energy, while peanut butter contributes healthy fats and richness. Add in bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or broccoli, and you’re layering in fiber, antioxidants, and vibrant color.

One of the best parts? This recipe is versatile. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice for a hearty meal, toss it with brown rice noodles for a fun twist, or keep it low-carb by pairing it with cauliflower rice. It’s fast enough for a weekday meal, yet sophisticated enough to serve at dinner parties.

Ingredients for Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3 green onions, chopped
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (creamy, unsweetened)
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1–2 tbsp sriracha or Thai chili paste (adjust for spice)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• ½ cup warm water (to thin sauce as needed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Crushed peanuts (for topping)
• Cooked jasmine rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice (for serving)

How to Make Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken

Making Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken is simple and rewarding, turning everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish. Start by preparing the peanut sauce, as it will be the star of this recipe. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and a splash of warm water until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding more water as needed, and set aside.

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender yet still crisp. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the prepared peanut sauce, and toss everything together until evenly coated. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve immediately over jasmine rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and crushed peanuts for a burst of freshness and crunch.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sriracha, garlic, and ginger. Add warm water a little at a time until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and pourable. Taste and adjust flavors – add more lime for tang, more sriracha for spice, or honey for sweetness. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the edges. Remove from the skillet and place on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, julienned carrot, and snap peas or broccoli. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables brighten in color and are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking, as you want them to retain some crunch.
4. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the prepared peanut sauce. Stir until the chicken and vegetables are fully coated. Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
5. Serve: Spoon the spicy peanut chicken over bowls of jasmine rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and green onions. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side.

This recipe yields 4–5 servings, perfect for meal prep or family-style dining.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Sugar: 8g

Serving of Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken is best served warm, fresh from the skillet. For a hearty, balanced meal, ladle it generously over fluffy jasmine rice or nutty brown rice. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, cauliflower rice makes an excellent low-carb alternative, while rice noodles offer a slurp-worthy twist.

To elevate presentation, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant green onions. A wedge of lime on the side adds brightness and allows each guest to adjust tanginess to their taste.

Pair this dish with a simple cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For drinks, Thai iced tea or sparkling water with lime balances the heat beautifully. Whether plated individually or served family-style in a large bowl, this dish creates a sense of warmth, nourishment, and togetherness at the table.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Protein swaps: Try shrimp, beef, or tofu for variety.
• Vegetable variety: Add broccoli, zucchini, or bok choy.
• Make it spicier: Use Thai bird’s eye chilies for extra heat.
• Nut-free option: Replace peanut butter with almond or sunflower butter.
• Meal prep: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken is more than just a healthy lunch—it’s a bold, vibrant meal that fuels your body and delights your palate. With its balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful peanut sauce, this dish proves that nutritious eating can also be indulgent and exciting.

As a traveler and food blogger, I’ve tasted countless dishes across cultures, but this one continues to feel like a comforting favorite that fits effortlessly into everyday life. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for the week, or indulging in a cozy meal after work, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. It’s proof that health and flavor can go hand in hand beautifully.