Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of chicken hitting the grill conjures visions of summer nights, even if the leaves are just starting to turn. If you’re looking for a delicious twist on your usual dinner fare, let me introduce you to my take on Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken. This recipe features tender, bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a rich peanut butter soy marinade that beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors. One of the best perks? It’s quick to whip up, taking just about 45 minutes from kitchen to table, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and impressing friends at a gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; grill it for that smoky char or roast it in the oven for a hands-off approach. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish! Why is this recipe a must-try? Incredible flavors: The rich peanut butter soy marinade infuses the chicken with savory, slightly sweet goodness. Quick and easy: In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Versatile cooking methods: Whether you choose to grill or roast, this recipe accommodates your preferred cooking style. Crowd-pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with this dish, making it ideal for gatherings and dinner parties. Health-conscious twist: Adaptable to various diets, you can easily switch ingredients, like using maple syrup for a vegan option. Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Ingredients Unlock the secrets of this flavor-packed recipe with the following ingredients. For the Marinade • Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and umami depth to the marinade. • Honey – Contributes sweetness and caramelization during cooking; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option. • Peanut Butter – Brings creaminess and richness; use creamy natural peanut butter for the best results. • Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with its acidity; apple cider vinegar is a great substitute. • Fresh Ginger – Enhances the flavor with warmth and a hint of spice. • Garlic – Provides aromatic and savory notes. • Ground Cumin – Adds earthy depth to the marinade. • Ground Coriander – Introduces refreshing citrus notes. • Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds mild heat; adjust according to your spice preference. • Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty flavor and aroma. • Lime Juice – Brightens the marinade with its acidity. For the Chicken • Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs – Provide structure and moisture; using this cut results in juicier chicken. For Garnish • Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of herbal flavor and color when garnished. • Toasted Sesame Seeds – Introduces crunch and visual appeal to your dish. Now that you have everything laid out, there’s no excuse not to try this delightful Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken recipe! 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, minced ginger, garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-blended, ensuring no clumps of peanut butter remain. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add optional red pepper flakes to taste. This rich marinade will bring a delightful flavor profile to your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Place your bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-covered. Seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight. This marinating process infuses the chicken with savory, sweet flavors, making every bite of your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken deliciously irresistible. Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). For roasting, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Allow it to fully preheat so that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect char when grilling or crispy skin when roasting. Whichever cooking method you choose, be prepared for your kitchen to fill with mouthwatering aromas from the marinated chicken. Step 4: Cook the Chicken For grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and develop a beautiful, slightly charred exterior. If roasting, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet, and roast in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes. Baste occasionally with any remaining marinade for extra flavor and moisture. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Once your Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken is cooked through and golden brown, remove it from the grill or oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Meanwhile, chop fresh cilantro and sprinkle it generously over the chicken along with toasted sesame seeds for an appealing garnish. Serve hot, and enjoy the burst of flavors with each delicious bite. Expert Tips for Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Marinate Longer: To achieve maximum flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight. This enhances the savory and sweet notes of the peanut butter soy marinade. Watch the Time: If you opt for boneless chicken thighs, be mindful of the cooking time to avoid dryness. Aim for about 4-6 minutes per side on the grill. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F is key to safe and perfectly cooked Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken. Double the Recipe: Planning a gathering? Feel free to double the ingredients to serve more guests, but adjust cooking times for consistency. Customize the Heat: Not everyone enjoys spice—if you’re unsure, start with just a pinch of red pepper flakes and add more to taste if desired. 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 to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain texture. Freezer: If you wish to freeze, wrap the marinated chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label the bag with the date for reference. Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight and reheat in an oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave until warm, adding moisture with a splash of water if needed. Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken up to 3 days in advance, storing it in the fridge, for an even deeper flavor infusion! Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds or dietary needs! Boneless Chicken Thighs: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking option and easier eating. Vegan Delight: Swap out chicken for grilled or roasted tofu marinated in the same peanut soy mix for a delicious vegan twist. Nut-Free Version: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to maintain creaminess without nuts—perfect for allergy concerns. Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh basil or mint into the marinade for an extra layer of flavor that brightens the dish. Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or stir in diced fresh chili peppers to the marinade for a fiery flavor. Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh orange juice into the marinade for a sweet and zesty undertone, or add orange zest for an aromatic boost. Grilled Veggies: Toss some chopped bell peppers and onions in the marinade and grill them alongside the chicken for a colorful, tasty side. Coconut Creaminess: For a tropical flair, substitute a little coconut milk for some of the soy sauce, adding a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the dish. Exploring different variations can elevate your meal. Once you find your favorite twist, you might just create a new family classic! And if you’re looking for more delicious marinade ideas, don’t forget to check out my post on best marinade tips for having fun in the kitchen! Enjoy your culinary adventure! What to Serve with Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy an unforgettable meal together, bursting with rich flavors and vibrant textures. Coconut Rice: This fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the delicious marinade from the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Each bite transports you to an island paradise. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed florets offer a crisp, green contrast to the savory chicken, while enhancing the meal’s nutritional profile. It’s a simple way to add color and health to your plate. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad featuring crisp cucumbers, rice vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds balances the richness of the chicken, providing a bright, tangy contrast. Garlic Noodles: Delightfully buttery and infused with fresh garlic, these noodles complement the robust flavors of the chicken while adding a comforting touch to the meal. It’s a fusion of textures that your family will adore. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, tender chunks bring a natural sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory marinade of the chicken, while their caramelized edges add delightful crunch. Fresh Cilantro Lime Dressing: Drizzle this vibrant dressing over your meal for an added layer of brightness and herbal notes that not only enhances the flavors but also elevates the presentation beautifully. Chilled Sake or White Wine: A light, chilled sake or a crisp white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall experience with its refreshing notes, making each bite even more enjoyable. Mango Sticky Rice: End the meal on a sweet note with this delightful dessert, the creamy coconut rice paired with luscious mangoes is simply unforgettable. It’s a sweet finish that ties back to the Indonesian theme! Make Ahead Options These Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken thighs are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 3 days in advance, allowing those flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply prepare the marinade, coat the chicken in it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For an additional time-saver, you can also chop the cilantro and measure out the sesame seeds a day ahead. When you’re ready to feast, preheat your grill or oven and cook the marinated chicken as directed. You’ll still achieve juicy, flavor-packed results with minimal effort, making it feel just as special, even for last-minute dinners. Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest results. The bones help retain moisture during cooking, ensuring a tender and flavorful dish. You can use boneless thighs or breasts as a substitute if you’re short on time, but keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness. How should I store leftovers of Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken? Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, store the leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best texture. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. Can I freeze the marinated chicken? How do I do that? Absolutely! To freeze your prepared marinade with the chicken, wrap the marinated chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the bag with the date! When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with grilling or roasting. What if my chicken is overcooked or dry? If you find that your chicken is dry, this can often be remedied by basting it with extra marinade while it cooks. Next time, try using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes, it’s quite adaptable! For a gluten-free option, simply swap regular soy sauce with tamari. If you’re looking for a vegan version, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, always be mindful of any allergies related to peanuts if you’re cooking for others; consider using tahini or almond butter as alternatives in the marinade. How can I enhance the flavor of the marinade? To deepen the flavor, marinate the chicken for a longer duration, ideally overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the rich peanut butter soy marinade fully. You can also adjust the seasoning by adding more fresh ginger or garlic, or experimenting with additional spices to tailor it to your taste! Indulge in Ina Garten's Indonesian Chicken: A Flavorful Feast This recipe features Ina Garten Indonesian Chicken marinated in a rich peanut butter soy marinade, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndonesianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade1/2 cup Soy Sauce1/4 cup Honey substitute with maple syrup for vegan1/3 cup Peanut Butter creamy natural for best results1/4 cup Rice Vinegar apple cider vinegar as substitute1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger minced2 cloves Garlic minced1 teaspoon Ground Cumin1 teaspoon Ground Coriander1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional, adjust for spice preference1 tablespoon Sesame Oil2 tablespoons Lime JuiceFor the Chicken4 pieces Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs for juicier chickenFor Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds Equipment Mixing BowlGrill or ovenBaking SheetMeat thermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Ina Garten Indonesian ChickenIn a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, rice vinegar, minced ginger, garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Whisk until smooth.Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over, ensuring coverage. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.Preheat grill to medium-high heat (~375°F) or oven to 400°F. Ensure even preheating for optimal cooking.For grilling, cook chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. For roasting, about 35-40 minutes.Let cooked chicken rest, then garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg NotesMarinate longer for maximum flavor. Adjust cook time for boneless thighs and check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
