As I stood in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of marinating chicken whisked me away to the vibrant streets of Indonesia. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Ina Garten’s Indonesian Chicken, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary adventure. This savory grilled or roasted delight features a rich soy-peanut marinade, making it not only packed with bold flavors but also a fantastic low-carb option for those seeking healthier meals. Imagine savory bites that are ready in just 45 minutes, effortlessly elevating your weeknight dinners to something truly special. Whether you’re looking to impress a crowd or simply enjoy a comforting homemade meal, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Are you ready to bring a taste of Indonesia to your dinner table?

Why Is This Chicken Recipe So Irresistible?

Simplicity is key: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.

Bold Flavors burst through with the exquisite combination of soy sauce and peanut butter that creates a unique culinary experience.

Quick Cooking Time means you can whip up this delicious dish in just 45 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.

Versatile preparation allows you to grill or roast, and you can even adapt it for your gluten-free or low-carb needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal makes it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests—everyone will be asking for the recipe!

For those nights you want something equally exciting, check out Crockpot Chicken Tinga or the savory Air Fryer Chicken for innovative options that will spice up your dinner rotation!

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and depth; a key flavor component in the Indonesian chicken recipe.
Honey – Adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors; consider using a low-carb sweetener for keto-friendly option.
Peanut Butter – Contributes creaminess and enhances the marinade; almond butter can be used for a nut-free variant.
Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to enhance flavor; apple cider vinegar can be substituted for a different tang.
Ginger (fresh, grated) – Offers a zesty warmth; ground ginger in a smaller amount works for convenience.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; always opt for fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
Ground Cumin – Delivers a warm, earthy note; it’s integral to the marinade’s character, so no substitutes here.
Ground Coriander – Adds a slight citrusy flavor; it’s optional and can be omitted if unavailable.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Introduces mild heat; omit for a milder dish.
Sesame Oil – Enhances fragrance and richness; neutral oil can be substituted if needed.
Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; lemon juice is a good alternative.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – This base protein ensures moisture and flavor; feel free to utilize drumsticks or boneless chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

For Garnish

Fresh Cilantro – Adds freshness and enhances presentation; feel free to omit for those who aren’t fans.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Introduces texture and flavor; these can be swapped for chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Embrace the vibrant, savory flavors of the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken as you embark on your culinary adventure—it’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-blended, creating a rich marinade that will infuse the chicken with bold flavors. The mixture should have a creamy consistency without lumps, making it perfect for coating the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Transfer your bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs into a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, allowing the savory marinade to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall flavor and tenderness of your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven
When you’re ready to cook the marinated chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high, around 400°F, or set your oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting. For grilling, this temperature helps achieve perfect char marks, while roasting ensures even cooking throughout. Allow the grill or oven to preheat fully, as this step is crucial for locking in moisture and ensuring a well-cooked chicken.

Step 4: Grill or Roast the Chicken
For grilling, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot grill, cooking for 6-8 minutes per side. Watch for a golden-brown color and slight charring, which signals it’s ready to flip. If roasting, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and roast for about 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally with leftover marinade for additional flavor and moisture. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Serve the chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, which will add a delightful crunch and enhance its vibrant presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving you time during busy weekdays. Simply whisk together the soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, cumin, and optional red pepper flakes, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the chicken, marinate it in the prepared sauce and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to serve, grill or roast the marinated chicken as directed, for juicy, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Embrace the ease of make-ahead cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking! Just seal in a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Reheating: Reheat shredded or sliced chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Marinade Prep: The marinade can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This is a great time-saver for whipping up your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken on busy nights!

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore new flavors and textures with these delightful variations!

Boneless Option: Use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cook time; adjust down to about 4-5 minutes on the grill.
Vegetable Skewers: Toss on bell peppers and zucchini while grilling for a colorful, complete meal that captures all those tasty aromas.
Nut-Free Twist: Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for a delicious nut-free alternative that still packs a punch in flavor.
Zesty Add-In: Incorporate a tablespoon of freshly grated lime zest into the marinade for an extra zing that brightens each bite.
Sweetener Swap: For a keto-friendly version, replace honey with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia to keep it sweet and low-calorie.
Creamy Sauce: Whip up a quick sauce using leftover marinade—just simmer it on the stove until thickened and drizzle it over the cooked chicken for an added flavor boost.
Spice It Up: Add an extra kick by increasing the red pepper flakes or even adding a dash of chili garlic sauce to the marinade for heat lovers.
Cilantro Alternative: If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh basil or mint garnished on top to enjoy a refreshing twist that still enhances the dish.

You’ll love how these tweaks can elevate your cooking game! For something equally satisfying, you might enjoy these crispy Air Fryer Chicken bites or the scrumptious Chipotle Chicken Nachos for a fun twist!

What to Serve with Savory Grilled Indonesian Chicken?

Picture this: a warm dinner table, laughter filling the air, and delicious aromas swirling around as you savor every bite of your meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the savory soy-peanut marinade, creating a seamless harmony with the bold flavors of your chicken.
Sautéed Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like bell peppers or snap peas add color and freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken beautifully.
Coconut Curry Soup: This warm, fragrant soup enhances the Indonesian theme and provides a delightful contrast with its creamy texture.
Refreshing Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw with lime vinaigrette adds a zesty twist, cutting through the rich flavors and keeping your palate excited.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet, caramelized pineapple on the grill makes for a perfect tropical complement, creating a delightful sweetness after each savory bite.
Chilled Mango Salad: A bright, fruity salad packed with fresh herbs and zesty dressing offers a refreshing counterpart, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a delightful beverage, consider serving a chilled Riesling or a classic lemonade—perfect to cool off those spice levels!

Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will intensify the flavors and make the meat juicy and tender.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, preventing undercooked or overcooked meat.
Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, don’t overcrowd the grill; this ensures even cooking and that each piece gets that delightful char.
Crispy Skin Tip: If roasting, leave the skin exposed to the heat for a crispy texture, but avoid submerging it in too much marinade to retain crunch.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade based on your spice preference for the perfect kick when enjoying this Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken.

Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the marinade?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh ingredients, opt for a firm piece of ginger without any wrinkles or dark spots, and garlic bulbs that feel heavy and tight. Look for soy sauce that has a rich color and is stored in a cool area to maintain its flavor. Fresh cilantro should be vibrant green with no wilting or yellow leaves.

What is the best way to store leftovers from the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness. For reheating, make sure to heat it fully to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to enjoy again.

Can I freeze the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken?
Very! You can easily freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Place the chicken in a zip-top freezer bag with the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Remove excess air, seal tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then grill or roast as directed!

What if my chicken is sticking to the grill?
No worries! If your chicken is sticking, it may need more time on the grill before flipping. When cooking, be sure the grill is preheated and oiled. If it continues to stick, you can gently run a spatula between the chicken and the grill to release it. Always remember to let the chicken cook undisturbed until it naturally releases before flipping.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For a gluten-free version of the Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. If you’re looking to adjust the sweetness, feel free to use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit instead of honey. It’s a delightful option for those on low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor!