The tantalizing aroma of soy sauce and peanut butter fills my kitchen as I whip up something special—Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken. This vibrant recipe marries bold flavors with simplicity, transforming a weeknight dinner into an unforgettable experience in under 45 minutes! As a low-carb option, it’s not just easy to prepare but also a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing family and friends alike. The juicy, marinated chicken, with its slightly charred exterior, encapsulates a delightful balance of savory and sweet that sings on your palate. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious dish? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this chicken recipe a must-try?
Bold flavors: This Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken boasts a harmonious blend of soy sauce and creamy peanut butter, creating a savory and slightly sweet marinade that tantalizes the taste buds.
Time-saving: With a total cooking time of under 45 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.
Versatility: Whether you grill or roast, this dish adapts beautifully to your cooking preferences—they’re both delicious!
Low-carb goodness: Satisfy your cravings without the guilt, thanks to the low-carb options available with this recipe. For more easy low-carb dinner ideas, check out our guide on quick keto meals.
Crowd-pleasing: Impress friends and family alike with this dish—they’ll be asking for the recipe!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the secret to bold flavors!
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – They provide maximum flavor and juiciness; boneless cuts may dry out.
For the Marinade
- Soy sauce – Enriches the dish with umami and saltiness; low-sodium soy sauce is perfect for a lighter touch.
- Honey – Brings the right amount of sweetness and aids in caramelization; use a low-carb sweetener for a keto twist.
- Peanut butter – Adds creaminess to elevate the marinade; creamy natural peanut butter yields the best results.
- Rice vinegar – Balances the flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar is a great substitute if needed.
- Fresh ginger (grated) – Introduces a warm, spicy kick; if fresh isn’t available, ground ginger works in a pinch.
- Garlic cloves (minced) – Deepens flavor with its savory nature; garlic powder can replace fresh but might lose richness.
- Ground cumin – Adds earthy warmth that complements the dish; coriander can be an alternative for a unique taste.
- Ground coriander – Provides citrusy notes that enrich the overall flavor; can be skipped if unavailable.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – Introduces mild heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance or omit for no heat.
- Sesame oil – Imparts a nutty flavor typical of Asian cuisine; vegetable oil can work in a pinch.
- Lime juice – Brightens up the marinade; fresh lemon juice makes a suitable substitute.
For Garnishing
- Fresh cilantro (chopped) – Adds freshness and a burst of color; green onions can work if you’re out of cilantro.
- Toasted sesame seeds – Enhances presentation and adds a delightful crunch; can be omitted or replaced with chopped nuts if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of soy sauce, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter until smooth. Incorporate 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Finally, stir in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and the juice of 1 lime until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the luscious marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven or Grill
If you’re roasting the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial to achieving a beautifully cooked chicken with that perfect char and caramelization. While the grill heats, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
For grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked—look for a nice char and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If roasting, spread the chicken out on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally with leftover marinade for added moisture and flavor.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor and juiciness. Before serving, garnish the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add color and a delightful crunch. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful creation!
Make Ahead Options
These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance by whisking together the soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and lime juice, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor—this ensures the meat is just as delicious when it’s time to cook. When ready to cook, simply take the chicken out of the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, and then grill or roast as instructed. This way, you’ll have a flavorful, gourmet meal ready with minimal effort on your busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
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Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This allows the marinade to deeply penetrate, enhancing the taste of your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken.
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Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and ideal juiciness.
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Avoid Low-Quality Ingredients: Invest in high-quality soy sauce and natural peanut butter to truly elevate the bold flavors of your marinade—cheap alternatives can compromise the taste.
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Baste While Cooking: If roasting, baste the chicken with leftover marinade a couple of times during cooking to keep it moist and to create a beautiful caramelized glaze.
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Don’t Rush Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This crucial step helps juices redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.
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Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance, ensuring a delightful flavor without overwhelming heat.
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and personalize this dish with these delicious twists!
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Bone-In Alternates: Use chicken drumsticks or boneless chicken thighs for a different texture while keeping flavor intact. Both options cook beautifully and are just as succulent.
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Vegetarian Option: Transform this dish by swapping chicken for firm tofu. Marinate and grill or roast the tofu for a delightful plant-based version.
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Nut Butter Swap: If you’re looking for a twist, try using almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter. Each will impart its own unique flavor while maintaining creamy richness.
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Sweetness Adjustments: For a different sweet touch, swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slight variation in flavor profiles. This adds a lovely, earthy sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Boost the heat by incorporating sriracha or a dash of chili paste into the marinade. This will elevate the flavor explosion for those who love spice!
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Citrus Zest: Infuse extra brightness by adding the zest of lime or lemon into the marinade. This elevates the flavor and adds an aromatic touch you can’t resist.
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Herb Alternatives: While cilantro enhances freshness, consider using fresh basil or parsley if you prefer a different herb profile. Each will add its own unique fragrance and taste to the dish.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or try it with sautéed greens. For more ideas, check out our article on low-carb sides.
Each of these variations can enhance your experience with Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken, allowing for both traditional and innovative dining pleasures!
What to Serve with Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Transforming your dinner table into a feast of flavors starts with the perfect sides to complement the savory sweetness of your main dish.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, this fragrant rice soaks up the rich marinade, balancing every bite of chicken with its delicate texture.
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Crunchy Cabbage Slaw: With its crispness and tangy dressing, fresh slaw adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, charred to perfection, bring a smoky, vibrant side that enhances the meal’s overall experience.
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Coleslaw: Creamy or tangy, this classic side adds a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of richly flavored chicken.
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Coconut Quinoa: Nutty quinoa mixed with coconut milk delivers a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the chicken.
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Satay Skewers: Extend the theme with these skewers, offering bold flavors from seasoned meat or tofu that echo the Indonesian influence of the chicken.
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Mango Chutney: Its sweet and tangy profile enhances the savory depth of the chicken, creating a symphony of flavors on your plate.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink that will cleanse your palate, enhancing the flavors of your meal.
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Mango Sorbet: Finish on a sweet note with this light dessert. Its tropical flavors are a refreshing end to your flavorful feast.
Storage Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated uncooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: To reheat cooked chicken, use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This keeps the chicken juicy and delicious.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge, ready to elevate your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken whenever you’re ready to cook!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful results. They offer a moisture level that boneless cuts can lack. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken thighs also work, but you may need to adjust cooking times to prevent drying out.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer the cooked chicken to a sealed freezer bag and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I freeze this chicken after marinating?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated, uncooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then follow the cooking instructions.
What if the chicken is not cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it could be due to the thickness of the chicken pieces. For consistent results, consider using chicken that is similar in size and thickness. Also, make sure to let the chicken come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before grilling or roasting, as this can help it cook more evenly.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this dish can be easily adapted for those on a low-carb diet by using a sugar substitute for the honey. Additionally, always be cautious of allergies—like peanuts in the peanut butter; consider substituting with almond or cashew butter if needed and ensure no allergens are present. For pet owners, it’s best to keep this dish away from dogs, as the cooked seasoning and some ingredients may not be healthy for them.
How long can I keep the marinade in the fridge?
You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time, but it also allows the flavors to deepen—making your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken even more irresistible when you’re ready to cook!
Savory Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken for Bold Flavor Lovers
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Grill or Oven
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs They provide maximum flavor and juiciness.
For the Marinade
- 1 cup soy sauce Low-sodium soy sauce is perfect for a lighter touch.
- 1/2 cup honey Use a low-carb sweetener for a keto twist.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter Creamy natural peanut butter yields the best results.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be a substitute.
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated) Ground ginger works in a pinch.
- 4 cloves garlic cloves (minced) Garlic powder can replace fresh.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Coriander can be an alternative.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander Can be skipped if unavailable.
- a pinch red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil Vegetable oil can work in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Fresh lemon juice is a suitable substitute.
For Garnishing
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped) Green onions can work if you're out of cilantro.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds Can be omitted or replaced with chopped nuts.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and peanut butter until smooth. Incorporate rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Add cumin, coriander, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir in sesame oil and lime juice until well combined.
- Place chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideal overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- For grilling: Place chicken skin-side down and grill for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. For roasting: Spread chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting with marinade.
- Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.