Recipe notes and tips
How do I get the crispiest peanut coating?
Finely chop the roasted peanuts so they adhere evenly to the chicken. The pieces should be small but still have some texture rather than being ground into a powder.
Press the peanuts firmly onto the mayonnaise-coated chicken and lightly spray with oil before air frying. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as good air circulation helps create a golden, crunchy coating.
Can I use chicken tenders instead?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders work well and require less preparation. Coat them with the mayonnaise mixture and chopped peanuts as directed, then adjust the air frying time according to their thickness.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly greased wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Lightly spray with oil and bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, turning carefully halfway through, until golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I use another type of nut?
Yes! Finely chopped almonds or cashews can be used instead of peanuts. The flavor will be slightly different, but both provide a delicious crunchy coating.
How spicy is this dish?
The cucumber salad has a fresh chili kick, while the creamy peanut sauce adds a little extra heat.
For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chili or use less hot sauce. If you enjoy spicy food, add extra fresh chili or increase the hot sauce to taste.
What kind of hot sauce should I use?
Frank’s RedHot Original works well in the dipping sauce, adding gentle heat and a tangy flavor that complements the creamy peanut butter and lime.
You can also use another unsweetened chili sauce. Check the ingredients for added sugar, as some Asian-style chili sauces can be surprisingly sweet.
How do I keep the cucumber salad crisp?
Use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin cucumber ribbons, avoiding the watery center. Pat the ribbons dry if they contain a lot of moisture.
Keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This prevents the cucumbers from releasing too much liquid and becoming soggy.
Can I prepare this ahead?
You can prepare the mayonnaise coating, chop the peanuts, and make the dipping sauce a day ahead. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
The cucumber dressing can also be prepared in advance. For the freshest texture, slice the cucumbers and dress the salad shortly before serving.
The chicken is best cooked just before serving so the peanut coating stays crispy.
Storage and leftovers
Store leftover chicken, cucumber salad, and dipping sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again. The cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, as it will soften and release moisture during storage.
