If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet effortlessly simple, this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender chicken mingled with a luscious, creamy peanut sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of spice and zesty lime—it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level, all cooked low and slow for unmatched juicy goodness.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Unmatched Convenience: Toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you carry on with your day—minimal prep and maximum flavor!
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of peanut butter, soy, and chili creates a sauce that’s creamy, savory, and with just the right kick to keep you coming back.
Perfectly Tender Chicken: Slow cooking locks in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken breasts that shred effortlessly.
Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, in wraps, or alongside steamed veggies for a meal that suits any occasion or craving.

The image shows a close-up of three thick chicken pieces cooked in a rich orange-brown sauce inside a black pot. The sauce looks creamy with small chunks of tomatoes or spices visible throughout. Bright green chopped herbs, likely cilantro, are sprinkled evenly over the chicken and sauce, adding a fresh touch. The chicken pieces are partially covered with the sauce, showing a slightly browned texture beneath. The pot edge is visible, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, creamy peanut chicken, flavorful chicken dinner, weeknight slow cooker meals

Ingredients & Substitutions

This recipe keeps things simple but flavorful with ingredients that make the sauce rich and the chicken tender. Each is essential: from the savory soy sauce to the sweet honey and the fresh zestiness of lime, every element works harmoniously to create that crave-worthy peanut chicken taste.

Flat lay of raw chicken breasts, vibrant red diced bell pepper, chopped yellow onion, peeled garlic cloves, a bowl of creamy peanut butter, a small dish of soy sauce, a jar of honey with a golden sheen, fresh green cilantro sprigs, and a halved lime showing its juicy interior, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, creamy peanut chicken, flavorful chicken dinner, weeknight slow cooker meals

Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless gives a tender finish, but you can swap with thighs for juicier meat with more fat.
Red bell pepper: Adds a lovely pop of color and slight sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
Yellow onion: Builds a flavorful base in the slow cooker, mellowing as it cooks.
Garlic cloves: A must for that aromatic punch that enhances the peanut sauce.
Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): Creamy makes a smooth sauce, but crunchy adds texture if you like a bit of bite.
Chicken broth: Keeps things moist and adds a savory depth.
Soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness—low sodium versions work well too.
Honey: Balances the heat with natural sweetness.
Sesame oil: Provides a toasty, nutty undertone that’s signature to peanut dishes.
Chili garlic paste: Adds a spicy kick—adjust amount based on your heat preference.
Lime juice: Stirred in at the end for bright, fresh acidity.
Cilantro: Fresh and fragrant, it finishes the dish with an herbal lift.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Vegetables and Chicken

Begin by adding the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base that infuses the chicken as it cooks. Then, place the chicken breasts right on top of the veggie bed—this layering ensures the chicken stays juicy and absorbs all those beautiful aromatics.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce

In a medium bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk the creamy peanut butter together with chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili garlic paste. Whisk until smooth and well combined—the sauce should be silky and thick enough to coat the chicken beautifully while cooking.

Step 3: Pour and Cook

Pour your luscious peanut sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooker will gently meld the flavors and make the chicken irresistibly tender—perfect for shredding or slicing.

Step 4: Finish with Lime and Cilantro

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove the lid and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This last step adds a fresh, zesty brightness that balances the richness of the peanut sauce beautifully, turning your Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dinner.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe

A white bowl holds a base layer of fluffy white rice with a slightly sticky texture, topped with pieces of light brown cooked chicken covered in a thick, glossy, orange-brown sauce with visible small chunks of red pepper. Scattered on top are chopped peanuts adding a crunchy texture and green cilantro leaves sprinkled around for a fresh touch. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with two small bowls nearby, one filled with chopped green herbs and the other with peanuts. Some cilantro leaves are scattered on the surface near the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, creamy peanut chicken, flavorful chicken dinner, weeknight slow cooker meals

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for crunch, a little extra cilantro for fresh herbal notes, or even a few sliced green onions for that mild bite and color contrast. A dash of sesame seeds also adds visual appeal and a subtle nutty punch.

Side Dishes

This slow cooker peanut chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or brown rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. For something lighter, serve alongside sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach, or even pair with noodles or quinoa for a wholesome twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken in warm tortillas or lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held option perfect for casual dinners or lunchboxes. Alternatively, drizzle it over roasted sweet potatoes or spiralized veggies for a colorful and nutrient-packed plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The chicken will continue to absorb the peanut sauce flavors, making the dish even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and it’ll be ready to enjoy with the same rich, creamy taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the peanut sauce from separating. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option, especially if you want a richer, juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may cook faster and remain tender when cooked low and slow.
Is this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it safe for gluten sensitivity. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

Yes! Adjust the amount of chili garlic paste to suit your heat preference. For a milder sauce, reduce or omit it; for more kick, add extra or include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, quinoa, or fresh greens. You can also try wrapping it in lettuce leaves or serving it over roasted veggies for a fresh twist.

Final Thoughts

Give this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a family favorite—you really can’t beat that creamy, nutty sauce paired with tender chicken that’s been perfectly slow cooked. It’s cozy, flavorful, and downright satisfying, perfect for busy days when you want an effortless dinner that feels special. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again (and again!).

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken Recipe