Kung Pao Chicken is an iconic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your table. This recipe features tender chicken bites tossed in a spicy, savory sauce, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With a delightful combination of peanuts, bell peppers, and a rich sauce, every bite is a burst of flavor.
If you’re looking to add a little heat to your meal, this stir-fry will do just the trick. It’s not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure that allows you to explore the bold tastes of Sichuan cuisine. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
This Kung Pao Chicken is not just about heat; it’s about balance. The crunchiness of the peanuts and the freshness of the vegetables complement the tender chicken, creating a harmonious dish that’s sure to impress.
A Classic Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
This Kung Pao Chicken is a stir-fry dish featuring marinated chicken, roasted peanuts, and a mix of colorful vegetables. The sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy, making it a flavorful addition to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2-3 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix diced chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Prep the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Veggies and Aromatics: Add minced garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and dried chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Combine Everything: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Add roasted peanuts and green onions, stirring well to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
