Satay Buffalo Chicken Skewers

Name: Satay Buffalo Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Wooden or metal skewers; Cooking oil for grilling

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

I love creating unique flavor combinations, and these Satay Buffalo Chicken Skewers really hit the mark. The spicy buffalo sauce mixed with the nutty undertones of the satay marinade creates a deliciously addictive dish that I can't get enough of. It’s perfect for grilling season, and whether I’m serving them at a barbecue or just enjoying them on a casual weeknight, they never fail to impress. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for the last skewer!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:30:28.418Z

When I first tried Satay Buffalo Chicken Skewers, it was an explosion of flavors that I never expected. I experimented with combining traditional satay ingredients with a spicy buffalo twist, and it was a match made in heaven. The key is to marinate the chicken long enough to really absorb the flavors, allowing them to infuse every bite.

As I perfected the recipe, I learned that grilling the skewers over high heat gives them those beautiful char marks while keeping the chicken juicy. Serve them with a cooling ranch dip, and they will become a favorite at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique fusion of spicy buffalo and nutty satay flavors
Tender, juicy chicken grilled to perfection
Perfect appetizer or main dish for gatherings

      

The Perfect Marinade

This marinade is the star of the dish, combining the creaminess of peanut butter with the heat of buffalo sauce. The peanut butter not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist while grilling, thanks to its natural oils. Make sure to whisk the marinade until it's smooth and slightly glossy before adding the chicken. This ensures that every piece is fully coated and absorbs the best of the flavors during marination.

The balance between spicy and sweet is key here, so feel free to adjust the honey based on your taste preference. If you prefer less sweetness, reducing the honey to one tablespoon can amplify the heat of the buffalo sauce. For an extra zest, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes, which can elevate the dish's heat level without sacrificing its unique combination of flavors.

Skewering Techniques

When threading chicken onto skewers, it's important to maintain an even spacing between the pieces. This allows for better heat circulation, ensuring that each piece cooks uniformly. If the pieces are too close together, some may remain undercooked while others become dry. Aim for about half an inch of space between each piece; this promotes even grilling and prevents flare-ups caused by exposed areas of meat.

If you’re using metal skewers, there's no need to soak them, but wooden skewers always benefit from a soak in water for about 20 minutes. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill and reduces the risk of losing your chicken to the flames. A good tip is to use flat skewers if you have them, as they keep the chicken from spinning when you turn them on the grill.

Serving Suggestions

These Satay Buffalo Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, pair them with jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the dish's heat. If you're serving them as an appetizer, consider providing different dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or an extra spicy buffalo sauce. This allows guests to customize their experience and can add a fun interactive element during gatherings.

For meal prep enthusiasts, these skewers are a great make-ahead option. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it sealed in the refrigerator. When ready to grill, simply thread them onto the skewers and cook as directed. Additionally, leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they reheat beautifully in a skillet or an oven at low heat.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious skewers!

Chicken Skewers Marinade

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

For Grilling

Wooden or metal skewers
Cooking oil for grilling

Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Let's prepare the skewers step by step.

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, buffalo sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces and stir until they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.

Enjoy your skewers hot off the grill!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped cilantro or peanuts on top before serving.

After Cooking Tips

Once grilled, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This simple step helps redistribute the juices within the chicken, enhancing its tenderness and flavor. When the chicken is grilled properly, it should have a nice char and be opaque in the middle. A good indicator that they are done is when the juices run clear, not pink. Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

If you're looking for a little extra crispiness, you can finish the skewers under a broiler for 2-3 minutes after grilling. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning. This method enhances the texture and gives them a dark, caramelized finish that beautifully complements the flavors of the marinade.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the protein in this recipe. While chicken is the classic choice, you can substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian option. If using tofu, press and cube it before marinating, and be mindful to grill on lower heat to prevent burning, as tofu can scorch easily.

For a different flavor journey, consider switching the buffalo sauce for a teriyaki sauce or a spicy chili paste. Each variation can offer a unique twist on the dish, providing new flavor profiles while maintaining the essence of the satay and grilling techniques.

Storage and Freezing

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, consider using a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken's moisture. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and warm them in an oven set to 350°F, which preserves their tenderness.

For longer storage, these skewers can be frozen before or after cooking. If freezing before grilling, marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and grill as usual. Cooked skewers can also be frozen; just ensure they're sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, and consume within two months for the best quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different meats for the skewers?

Absolutely! Pork, shrimp, or even tofu can work well and be delicious with this marinade.

→ How do I make these skewers spicier?

You can add more buffalo sauce or include sliced jalapeños in the marinade for an extra kick.

→ What can I serve with the skewers?

These go great with a side of vegetable sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.