The rich aroma of soy and peanut wafts through the kitchen as I prepare to make Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken—an extraordinary dish that effortlessly transports me to a cozy, bustling market in Bali. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, this easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when fast food just won’t cut it. Not only is this dish a culinary delight to savor, but it also offers a low-carb alternative that can be grilled or roasted for maximum versatility. Imagine your taste buds dancing with each bite as the juicy chicken thighs absorb the sweet and savory marinade. I can hardly wait to see how this flavor-packed meal can transform your dining experience! Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and explore the journey of creating this mouth-watering dish?
Why is Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken a Must-Try?
Bold, Flavor-Packed Marinade: The combination of soy sauce and peanut butter creates a scrumptious, savory glaze that elevates the chicken to new heights.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling or roasting, this recipe caters to your cooking style while delivering tender, juicy meat.
Quick Preparation Time: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for those busy nights when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Low-Carb Friendly: With options for alternative sweeteners, this dish is a delightful fit for keto enthusiasts or anyone seeking a healthier option.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The rich flavors and gorgeous presentation will have everyone at the table asking for seconds, just like with my popular Grilled Chicken Sandwich.
Leftovers Worth Keeping: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch—this chicken stays delicious in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Provides juicy flavor and tenderness.
- Soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami depth; perfect for this Indonesian chicken recipe.
- Honey – Sweetness to balance savory elements; can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan version.
- Peanut butter – Creates a creamy marinade base; use almond butter for a nut-free alternative.
- Rice vinegar – Adds acidity and brightness; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
- Fresh ginger – Imparts warmth and freshness; grated ginger enhances marinade absorption.
- Garlic – Provides pungent flavor; use fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
- Ground cumin – Adds earthy flavor.
- Ground coriander – Complements cumin’s warmth.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional spice for heat; adjust quantity to taste to suit your preferences.
- Sesame oil – Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Lime juice – Brightens the dish with acidity.
For the Garnish
- Fresh cilantro – Offers a fresh, herbal note when serving.
- Toasted sesame seeds – Adds crunch and visual appeal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This flavorful marinade will coat the chicken beautifully and can be made in just 10 minutes, setting the stage for a delicious Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken dish.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top plastic bag, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly, ensuring every piece is well-coated in the savory marinade. Refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor infusion, making your meal taste truly exceptional.
Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
When you’re ready to cook the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because a hot grill or oven ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a delicious, slightly charred exterior. If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook Chicken (Grilling Method)
Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill, cooking for about 6–8 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on the chicken, looking for a nice char and an internal temperature of 165°F. If using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the thigh for the most accurate reading, ensuring your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken is perfectly juicy.
Step 5: Cook Chicken (Roasting Method)
If you choose to roast, arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in your preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, basting occasionally with leftover marinade for maximum flavor. The skin should crisp up nicely, creating a beautiful golden-brown color while sealing in the delicious juices.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and beautifully charred or roasted, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Finally, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds before serving. The vibrant garnishes add a delightful freshness to your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken, making it visually appealing and enhancing those rich flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can make the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply whisk together the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even better results, marinate the chicken thighs in the mixture for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your grill or oven as instructed and cook the chicken straight from the fridge. This method keeps your chicken just as delicious while cutting down on weekday stress, ensuring a delightful, flavorful meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld and keeps the chicken tender for your next delightful meal.
Freezer: The Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer bag or container.
Thawing: To defrost, simply transfer the chicken to the fridge overnight. This gentle thaw encourages even reheating without compromising texture.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave until heated through for a quick, tasty meal without the fuss!
Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken overnight. This allows the savory marinade to infuse thoroughly, resulting in a more flavorful Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken.
Grill or Roast: Choose your cooking method! If you like a smoky char, grilling is perfect. Roasting provides a crispy skin; either way, keep an eye on the internal temperature for juiciness.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid undercooked or dried-out meat, keeping your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken tender and juicy.
Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit them altogether for a milder flavor profile.
Sauce it Up: Consider saving some marinade before adding it to the chicken if you want an extra sauce for drizzling after cooking. Just make sure to bring it to a boil first for safety.
Perfect Garnishes: Don’t skip the cilantro and toasted sesame seeds—they add freshness and crunch, elevating the dish visually and in taste.
What to Serve with Easy Indonesian Chicken with Soy-Peanut Marinade
Imagine a vibrant dinner table filled with colors and flavors that perfectly complement the rich, savory notes of your chicken dish.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the flavorful marinade, offering a wonderful creamy balance to the dish.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: This cool and crunchy salad creates a refreshing contrast, enhancing the savory elements of the chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant provide a smoky, tender texture that pairs beautifully with the marinated chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a light soy-peanut sauce, these noodles add richness, making your meal feel indulgent yet homemade.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior balance the savory elements, introducing a delightful contrast in flavor.
Mango Chutney: A dollop of this sweet and tangy condiment brightens up the plate and complements the soy-peanut glaze wonderfully.
Coconut Milk Soup: This warm and creamy soup, infused with fresh herbs, pairs exceptionally well, adding another layer of flavor to your meal.
Lychee Martini: For a refreshing drink, this sweet cocktail pairs wonderfully with the spiced chicken, enhancing the tropical vibes of the meal.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with this rich dessert; its smooth texture will perfectly round out your flavor-filled evening.
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful variations that can elevate your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken dish!
Low-Carb Sweetener: Replace honey with your favorite low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly option. This swap keeps the flavor divine while catering to your dietary needs.
Boneless Chicken Thighs: Opt for boneless chicken thighs to reduce cooking time. They cook faster and still pack lots of moisture and flavor if you keep an eye on them!
Nut-Free Alternative: Swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter to accommodate nut allergies. This maintains the creamy texture while making it more allergen-friendly.
Grill vs. Roast: Experiment with cooking methods to find your favorite. Roasting brings a lovely crispy skin, while grilling adds a smoky flavor that can’t be beaten.
Extra Spice: Boost the heat by doubling the red pepper flakes or adding a splash of sriracha to the marinade. For spice lovers, this adds an exhilarating kick!
Sweet and Savory Twist: Add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a fruity variation. The citrus brightens the dish while complementing the savory notes beautifully.
Vibrant Sides: Serve with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to enhance the brightness of your meal. These sides balance out the rich flavors and add a refreshing crunch.
Infused Oils: Drizzle with chili-infused oil before serving for an extra layer of flavor. This little touch can make your dish feel gourmet without extra effort.
With these variations, you can make this wonderful dish even more inviting, much like how I enjoy pairing it with a side of my favorite Grilled Chicken Bites for a fun meal that sings with flavor!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs! They are juicy and tender, and the skin helps to lock in moisture while cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use boneless thighs, but just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying them out.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld together! Just remember to reheat it gently to preserve that juicy goodness.
Can I freeze leftover chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken for up to 2 months! To freeze, wait for the chicken to cool completely, then pack it into a freezer bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if my chicken is still pink inside after cooking?
If your chicken is still pink but you’ve checked the internal temperature and it hasn’t reached 165°F, continue cooking it for a few more minutes. Use a meat thermometer to gauge accuracy; insert it into the thickest part of the thigh for the best reading. If you’re grilling, consider moving the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning the outside.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re preparing this for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. For gluten-free versions, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce. Plus, you can replace honey with a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly dish, ensuring everyone can enjoy this flavorful meal!
Savory Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken You’ll Want to Make Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Marinade by whisking together soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and lime juice until smooth.
- Marinate Chicken by pouring the marinade over the chicken thighs in a bowl or bag and refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare for Cooking by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Chicken (Grilling Method) for 6–8 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Cook Chicken (Roasting Method) by arranging thighs on a baking sheet and roasting for 35–40 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Garnish and Serve by resting cooked chicken and sprinkling with cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.