Skip to main content
Delicious Dish

Chicken & Turkey

Chicken, Beef or Tofu Satay Recipe

September 9, 2020|By Carolyn Cohen
Chicken, Beef or Tofu Satay - chicken & turkey recipe by Carolyn Cohen

Satays are the perfect finger food; but don’t save them for a party, they are a great weeknight meal. The marinade is super easy to make and the protein takes less than an hour to marinate. I like to skewer the meat AFTER it is cooked, because that way the bamboo skewers don’t burn! Serve with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce, DeliciousDish or Tahini “Peanut” Sauce, DeliciousDish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb extra-firm tofu or 12 chicken tenders or 1½
  • lb beef sirloin, cut into slices about 2-3 inches
  • long and ¼-½ inch thick, cut the tofu into flat
  • slabs, similar to a chicken finger
  • 1 lemongrass, white and light-green end only,
  • sliced in half lengthwise, tough outer leaves
  • removed
  • 2 tbsp grapeseed oil
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 tbsp coconut sugar (or white sugar)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp low-sodium tamari
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 Thai bird chili, stem removed

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place all ingredients (except the tofu, chicken or steak) in a blender and blend on high until a smooth puree is achieved.

  2. 2

    Pour marinade all over the protein of choice and let it marinate at room temperature for 1 hour or several hours (or overnight) in the fridge. Bring to room temperature 1 hour before cooking.

  3. 3

    Adjust oven rack to the second from the top position and preheat oven to broil or heat a grill to high. If you have a cast-iron grill sheet or pan, place it in the oven while the oven is preheating.

  4. 4

    When the oven and pan have preheated for about 15 minutes, spray the pan with cooking spray and lay the chicken, tofu or beef down. Broil for 3 minutes, flip and repeat. If you are grilling, grill for 3 minutes per side.

  5. 5

    Remove from oven/grill, carefully slide a bamboo skewer through the meat and serve with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce, DeliciousDish or Tahini “Peanut” Sauce, DeliciousDish, on the side. Serves 4-6.

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Chicken and turkey reheat well in the oven at 325°F to keep the meat moist.
Can I Freeze This?
Absolutely. Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Cooking Tip
Use a meat thermometer to ensure poultry reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking for juicier results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken, Beef or Tofu Satay?

This Chicken, Beef or Tofu Satay recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 16 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

Can I make this chicken, beef or tofu satay ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.