Prepare the Chicken. Start by slicing the chicken thighs into long, thin strips. This shape makes them perfect for threading onto skewers and ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly.
Create the Marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, curry powder, turmeric, garlic, ginger, lime juice, brown sugar, and salt. The mixture should be fragrant and golden, with a slightly thick consistency. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, tossing to coat every piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Thread the Skewers. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Thread each strip onto a soaked wooden skewer, gently shaping the meat to create folds that will caramelize beautifully when cooked.
Cook the Satay. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange skewers in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make the Peanut Sauce. While the chicken cooks, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk (or water), lime juice, garlic, and chili sauce if using. Add more liquid for a thinner sauce or less for a thicker, more spoonable consistency.
Serve. Arrange the chicken satay skewers on a platter and drizzle a bit of peanut sauce over the top. Scatter chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts for extra color and crunch.