Name: Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe for a Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Soy Sauce (opt for low-sodium for less sodium); ¼ cup Honey (substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option); ¼ cup Natural Peanut Butter (use creamy for best results); ¼ cup Rice Vinegar (apple cider vinegar works as an alternative); 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger (grated) (ground ginger can be used as a substitute); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (garlic powder can be used if necessary); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (ground coriander works well alongside); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (can be omitted if not available); 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional) (adjust according to spice preference); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (vegetable oil can be used as a substitute); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (lemon juice is a convenient substitute); 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on) (boneless thighs for quicker cooking); ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro (optional if disliked); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (chopped peanuts as a substitute)

As the tantalizing aroma of spices fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a vibrant Indonesian market, where flavors dance and mingle in the air. Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken Recipe brings this culinary magic right to your weeknight dinner table. With its rich soy-peanut marinade, this dish is not just a feast for the senses but also a quick and satisfying way to elevate your cooking game. In less than 45 minutes, you can serve up juicy chicken thighs, either grilled or roasted to perfection, creating a delightful centerpiece that your family will rave about. Plus, with easy adaptations for low-carb and keto diets, everyone can indulge without guilt. What’s your go-to ingredient when trying out international cuisines? Let’s dive into this exciting recipe together!

Why Will You Love This Recipe?

Simplicity: The steps are straightforward, making it a breeze even for beginners or busy weeknights.

Bold Flavor: Each bite is infused with delectable umami from the soy-peanut marinade, balancing savory goodness with a hint of sweetness.

Quick Prep: With just about 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect dish to whip up after a long day.

Versatile Options: Easily adapt the protein to fit your preferences; try turkey thighs or tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist. Check out my link for Garlic Parmesan Chicken as another flavorful option!

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner parties and watch guests rave over your culinary prowess while enjoying a dish that feels exotic yet approachable.

Healthy Adaptations: Perfect for low-carb and keto diets, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy without hesitation! Why not accompany it with a fresh cucumber salad for an added crunch?

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients

• For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Provides a salty and umami-rich base; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Peanut Butter – Infuses creaminess and richness; use creamy natural peanut butter for best results.
Rice Vinegar – Contributes acidity; apple cider vinegar works as a good alternative.
Fresh Ginger (grated) – Offers warmth and spiciness; ground ginger is a suitable substitute, although the flavor differs.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances the overall flavor profile; in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead.
Ground Cumin – Adds an earthy flavor; while no direct substitute exists, ground coriander works well alongside it.
Ground Coriander – Provides subtle citrus undertones; can be omitted if not on hand.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a mild heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Sesame Oil – Delivers nuttiness; vegetable oil can substitute for a different flavor profile.
Lime Juice – Brightens the dish; lemon juice is a convenient substitute.

• For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – Main protein source, delivering juicy flavor; consider boneless thighs for quicker cooking.

• For Garnish

Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the flavor; feel free to omit if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal; chopped peanuts can be used as a substitute.

This Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe not only delights the palate but also tempts you to explore vibrant flavors from each ingredient!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup honey, and ¼ cup natural peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add ¼ cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon sesame oil and the juice of one lime to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even more robust flavor, marinate the chicken overnight, ensuring each bite of the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken is packed with taste.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven
If you opt to grill the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 425°F. You’ll want the grill grates to be nice and hot for that delicious char. For roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to give the chicken a wonderful crispy skin while keeping the inside moist and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
For grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping when they achieve a nice char and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. If roasting, arrange the chicken on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with some marinade, and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally, until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each piece of Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken is juicy and tender. Cover lightly with aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the final touches.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, then sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for a beautiful finish. Serve hot, letting the fragrant aroma of your Indonesian Chicken fill the room and entice your family or guests to the table!

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap honey for agave nectar or a low-carb sweetener to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet while retaining sweetness.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu, marinating and cooking the same way for a delightful plant-based dish.
Low-Carb: Use a sugar substitute in place of honey and serve with a salad instead of traditional rice for a keto-friendly twist.
Spice Boost: Add more red pepper flakes or some sriracha to the marinade for a fiery kick that will heat up your meal!
Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like basil or mint in the marinade for a refreshing flavor that elevates the dish even more.
Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter to achieve a similar creaminess without the nuts for those with allergies.
Flavor Fusion: Why not try a technique from my recipe on Korean Spicy Chicken? Add some gochujang to the marinade for a deliciously spicy twist.
Crispier Skin: For an ultra-crisp finish, bake the chicken skin-side up on a wire rack, allowing the heat to circulate around it during cooking.

These variations will help you enjoy the classic flavors in new, exciting ways! Whether it’s a dinner party or a casual weeknight meal, there’s a version here that everyone’s going to love.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken

As your kitchen fills with enticing aromas, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your dinner experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up that luscious soy-peanut marinade, providing a comforting and filling side.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast, this salad adds crispness and lightness, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, mango salsa introduces a sweet contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a zesty punch.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus offers a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor, complementing the nutty undertones of the dish.
Thai Peanut Slaw: Crunchy and tangy, this slaw is vibrant and packed with fresh vegetables, echoing the dish’s peanutty elements.
Chilled Coconut Soup: Light and creamy, this coconut soup serves as a delightful entrée that adds a tropical touch to your full meal.
Herbal Iced Tea: Refreshing and aromatic, this drink complements the savory warmth of the chicken without overwhelming its bold flavors.
Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, this sweet and chewy treat presents a delightful ending, balancing the savory meal with its creamy goodness.
Sesame Noodles: This flavorful noodle dish adds a satisfying chewiness and rich sesame taste, a delightful contrast to the chicken’s texture.

Each pairing enhances the multi-layered experience of Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken, making for a truly memorable dinner.

Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe

Maximize Flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight for the deepest flavor infusion, ensuring a truly mouthwatering experience.
Perfect Cooking Time: Boneless chicken thighs cook faster than bone-in; check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid dryness.
Baste for Juiciness: If grilling or roasting, baste with leftover marinade every 10 minutes to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
Crispy Skin Trick: Avoid coating chicken in excess marinade during cooking; this keeps the skin crispy and prevents steaming.
Quick Substitutions: Don’t stress if you’re missing an ingredient; use rice vinegar with lemon juice or garlic powder instead of fresh garlic as a quick fix!
Make It Your Own: Customize the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes; it’s an easy way to make this Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe suit your taste!

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Lay it flat to save space, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Marinating Ahead: If you want to prep in advance, marinate the chicken up to 3 days prior to cooking. This will deepen the flavors of the dish beautifully!

Make Ahead Options

These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken thighs are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor rich flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the delicious soy-peanut mixture up to 3 days in advance, ensuring a deeper infusion of flavors. Simply combine all marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the chicken’s juicy texture, avoid marinating too far beyond this timeframe. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill or roast the chicken as directed, giving you quick, mouthwatering results that taste just as fresh and delightful. Enjoy a hassle-free dinner without compromising on quality!

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer quicker cooking, boneless thighs work as well but may sacrifice some of that wonderful richness.

How should I store leftovers from the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken?
Store any leftover Indonesian chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve its deliciousness!

Can I freeze the marinated chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, simply place the marinated chicken in a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and keep it flat to save space. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe.

I accidentally over-marinated the chicken. Is it still good?
While marinating overnight is ideal for flavor, if you’ve over-marinated it for too long, the texture may become soft. To salvage it, cook at a slightly lower temperature to prevent excess drying. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes! You can easily make this Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe keto-friendly by substituting honey with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. Additionally, pair it with non-starchy vegetables for a fulfilling meal.

What can I serve with this chicken to make a complete meal?
I often serve this flavorful Indonesian chicken with steamed jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad to balance its rich flavors. You could even try a side of sautéed greens for a nutritious touch!