Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances bold, spicy flavors with a creamy, nutty sauce, then you’re going to love this Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a luscious peanut sauce all tossed with wholesome whole wheat spaghetti. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something special to impress friends, this recipe hits all the right notes without any fuss.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta stands out because it masterfully combines the comforting familiarity of pasta with the exciting, exotic flavors of Thai cuisine. The creamy peanut butter sauce has just the right kick from sriracha, balanced by the sweetness of honey and the citrusy brightness of lime juice. Using whole wheat spaghetti adds a nutty depth and extra fiber, making it a healthier alternative to regular pasta without sacrificing taste.

Unlike many Asian-inspired pasta dishes that rely on heavy cream or butter, this recipe uses a simple blend of pantry staples—peanut butter, soy sauce, and fresh aromatics—to create a rich, flavorful sauce. The addition of crisp snap peas and vibrant red bell pepper also brings freshness and color to the plate, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

The Essentials

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti – adds fiber and a hearty texture.
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced – lean protein to keep the dish light yet filling.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for sautéing chicken and veggies.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – provides sweetness and crunch.
• 1 cup snap peas – adds a fresh, crisp bite.
• 3 green onions, chopped – for a mild onion flavor and garnish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic base.
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter – the star of the sauce, giving it creaminess and depth.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds umami and saltiness.
• 2 tbsp honey – balances the spice with subtle sweetness.
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce – for heat and a slight smoky flavor.
• 1 tbsp lime juice – cuts through the richness with bright acidity.
• Chopped cilantro – fresh herbaceous garnish.
• Salt and pepper – to taste.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – to cook the whole wheat spaghetti.
• Large skillet or wok – for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• Mixing bowl – to whisk together the peanut sauce.
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing chicken and veggies.
• Colander – to drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or tongs – for stirring and tossing everything together.

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Whole Wheat Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sriracha sauce, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of warm water to thin it out slightly. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, and chopped green onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly. Add the cooked spaghetti and gently toss again to combine all the ingredients. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbal note. Serve immediately, enjoying the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Chicken: Substitute chicken breast with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Whole Wheat Spaghetti: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
• Vegetable Oil: Replace with avocado oil or light olive oil for a different flavor profile.
• Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the spice level by swapping for chili garlic sauce or omit for a milder taste.
• Snap Peas: Substitute with green beans or asparagus for a similar crunch.
• Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have a peanut allergy.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the whole wheat spaghetti – it can become mushy quickly and lose its hearty texture.
• Avoid burning the garlic; cook it just until fragrant to prevent bitterness.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water – it’s crucial for loosening the sauce and helping it cling to the noodles.
• Be careful not to overwhelm the dish with too much sriracha at once; add gradually and taste as you go.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the peanut sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will save you time during cooking and allow flavors to meld even more.

Cooked pasta can be refrigerated separately and combined with chicken and veggies when ready to serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta FAQs

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken breast for firm tofu or tempeh, and ensure your peanut butter and soy sauce are vegan-friendly. You’ll still get that deliciously creamy and spicy peanut flavor without any animal products.

Is whole wheat spaghetti the best choice for this recipe?

Whole wheat spaghetti adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber, making the dish more nutritious and filling. However, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as regular spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles for a more authentic Thai twist.

How spicy is the dish and can I adjust it?

The heat level comes mainly from the sriracha sauce, which provides a moderate kick. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste, or substitute it with milder chili sauces.

Can I add other vegetables to the pasta?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Broccoli, carrots, baby corn, or mushrooms all work wonderfully and add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Keep Cooking

• For another flavorful twist on chicken pasta, try the Buffalo Chicken Pasta with its spicy, tangy sauce.
• If you love creamy sauces, the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a must-try for a fresh Italian-inspired dish.

In Closing

This Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of a pasta dinner with the exciting, bold flavors of Thai cuisine. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrition, and bursting with vibrant colors and tastes. From the tender chicken and crisp veggies to the creamy peanut sauce with just the right amount of heat, this dish will soon become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that satisfies cravings and fuels your day. Enjoy every bite!

Share on Pinterest