There’s a special satisfaction that comes from transforming simple ingredients into a dish that tantalizes the senses. When I first tried Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken, I was captivated by the harmonious blend of flavors – sweet honey, tangy lime, and the richness of peanut butter all come together to create a marinade that wraps around succulent chicken thighs like a warm, inviting hug.
This recipe is not only a delightful culinary adventure but offers an easy escape from the mundane weeknight dinners that often leave us yearning for something more. Imagine the pleasure of grilling these chicken thighs, the inviting sizzle mingling with hints of ginger and garlic wafting through your kitchen, making it impossible for anyone to resist gathering around the table.
Perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a home-cooked treat, this Indonesian Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So, let’s dive in and turn up the heat on your dinnertime routine!
Why is Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors! Sweet honey and savory peanut butter blend beautifully, making each bite a taste sensation.
Ease of preparation: With just 10 minutes of active prep time, you can enjoy this dish on busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Versatile serving options: Grill or roast, and serve it with rice or veggies for a delightful meal.
Time-saving: The marinating process infuses deep flavor, allowing you to set it aside and unwind.
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients
• All you need for a flavor-packed dish!
For the Marinade
- Soy sauce – provides a perfect balance of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey – adds a delightful touch of sweetness to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Peanut butter – lends creaminess and a rich, nutty undertone to the dish, making it uniquely satisfying.
- Rice vinegar – contributes tanginess that brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Grated ginger – imparts a warm spice that elevates the dish and offers a hint of freshness.
- Minced garlic – enhances the savory depth and aroma, making every bite irresistible.
- Ground cumin – introduces a warm, earthy flavor that rounds out the sweetness of the honey.
- Ground coriander – adds a citrusy note that lightens up the marinade beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – kick up the spiciness for those who crave a little heat in their dishes.
- Sesame oil – gives a rich, toasted flavor that enhances the overall essence of the marinade.
- Lime juice – a splash of acidity that brightens the dish and balances the richness of the peanut butter.
For Garnish
- Chopped cilantro – a fresh herb that adds a pop of color and vibrant taste to the final presentation.
- Toasted sesame seeds – offer a nice crunch and an extra layer of nutty flavor, making your dish visually appealing.
Enjoy the journey of creating this Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken that will leave everyone at the table craving more!
How to Make Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
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Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl: soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, and lime juice until well combined. This creates a luscious, aromatic mixture full of flavor.
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Marinate the chicken by placing the bone-in, skin-on thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag with the marinade. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for richer flavor. This step enhances tenderness and infuses each bite with deep, savory goodness.
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Grill or roast the chicken: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the thighs for 6–8 minutes on each side, achieving a beautifully charred exterior. Alternatively, roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, basting occasionally with the marinade to keep it juicy and delicious.
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Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve hot, and watch your loved ones delight in this aromatic feast!
Optional: Pair with jasmine rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
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Marination Time Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This deepens flavor and tenderness, ensuring your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken is juicy and satisfying.
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Don’t Skip the Baste: If roasting, basting the chicken occasionally during cooking helps maintain moisture and infuses flavor. This simple step can make a significant difference in the final dish!
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Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that it’s fully cooked while remaining moist and flavorful.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. For a family-friendly dish, you can substitute with herbs like smoked paprika for a gentle smokiness.
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Rest the Chicken: Let the grilled or roasted chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite every time!
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Serve with Sides: Pair your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken with jasmine rice or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors, making for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
What to Serve with Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken?
There’s nothing like a beautifully prepared dish to ignite the appetite and create a full, festive meal experience.
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Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the savory and sweet marinade beautifully, offering a perfect backdrop for the chicken.
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Steamed Broccoli: The crisp, fresh texture and bright green color provide a lovely contrast, balancing the richness of the chicken.
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Coconut Rice: With a creamy, slightly sweet flair, this dish enhances the flavors of the chicken, making it a tropical dream on the plate.
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Asian Slaw: Crunchy vegetables tossed in a tangy dressing bring a refreshing bite that complements the intense flavors of the chicken.
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Grilled Pineapple: The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple adds a delightful contrast and echoes the honey in the marinade.
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Peanut Satay Sauce: Drizzling this nutty sauce over the chicken or on the side adds an extra layer of flavor that deepens the dish’s appeal.
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Mango Salad: Sweet, juicy mangoes in a crunchy salad serve to elevate the overall taste experience, balancing the savory notes with bright acidity.
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Ginger Ale: A fizzy, refreshing drink that pairs well with the spices in the chicken, making each sip an uplifting experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a rich finish to the meal, satisfying the sweet tooth without overpowering the dinner experience.
Each of these pairings offers a unique texture and flavor, ensuring your meal is as memorable as the Indonesian Chicken itself!
Make Ahead Options
These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the marinade and toss the chicken in it before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making each bite just as delicious as when freshly made. If you want to prep even further, you can also slice your garnishes (cilantro and sesame seeds) up to 3 days ahead; just keep them refrigerated in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, grill or roast as directed, and enjoy a flavorful dish that feels effortless!
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish with these tasty twists!
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunbutter or tahini for a similar creamy texture that everyone can enjoy.
- Extra Heat: Add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for an exciting kick of heat.
- Herb Boost: Experiment by substituting or adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist that livens up the dish.
- Citrus Zing: Use orange or grapefruit juice instead of lime juice for a unique, fruity flavor that brightens the marinade.
- Sweet Twist: Try adding a spoonful of brown sugar for a deeper caramelization when grilling, creating a delightful contrast.
- Veggie Delight: Prep marinated vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini) alongside the chicken to soak in those delicious flavors.
- Smoky Flavor: For a BBQ twist, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade, giving your chicken a wonderful smoky aroma.
Explore these variations and let your taste buds lead the way!
Storage Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavors and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-friendly bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth for extra moisture.
Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. However, avoid reusing it on raw chicken unless boiled first to ensure safety.
Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, select bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Look for thighs with bright, moist skin, and avoid those with dark spots. Fresh chicken should be plump, with a light pink hue.
How can I store leftovers of Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong its life, freeze the chicken in a freezer-friendly bag or container for up to 3 months to lock in its unique flavor.
What’s the best way to freeze the marinated chicken?
To freeze the marinated chicken, place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, then label it with the date. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and follow the cooking instructions.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
Very! If your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, this often happens with uneven pieces. Ensure that all pieces are of similar size for uniform cooking. If you’re grilling, make sure to rotate the chicken and monitor the temperature closely. A meat thermometer is your best friend here; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or nut-free?
Of course! To make this recipe dairy-free, you can simply omit the peanut butter or substitute it with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Adjusting the spices and flavors will still give you a delicious result while making it suitable for those with allergies.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Always check the thickest part of the thigh, and for even juicier results, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Flavorsome Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken You’ll Crave Often
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken by placing the thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Grill or roast the chicken as directed: grill for 6–8 minutes on each side or roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35–40 minutes.
- Once cooked, garnish the chicken with chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds before serving.