Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Chinese cuisine right into your home. Nestled in a delicious sauce, the tender pieces of chicken combine perfectly with crunchy peanuts and colorful bell peppers, creating a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Protein: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 18 grams
• Fat: 18 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Sodium: 550 mg

Why Make This Kung Pao Chicken

There are countless reasons to make Kung Pao Chicken, but its standout flavors and textures make it a must-try. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and the crunch of peanuts creates an exciting taste experience. Plus, it’s quick to whip up on a weeknight or special occasion and offers balanced nutrition that everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Kung Pao Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup peanuts
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  In a bowl, combine chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Marinate for 15-20 minutes to infuse the flavors into the chicken.

• Step 2: Heating the Oil

  Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

• Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

  Add the marinated chicken to the hot oil and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

• Step 4: Adding Aromatics

  Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma!

• Step 5: Sautéing Vegetables and Peanuts

  Add the diced bell peppers and peanuts to the pan. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the bell peppers to soften slightly while keeping some crunch.

• Step 6: Making the Sauce

  In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and Sichuan peppercorns with water to make a sauce. Pour this over the chicken and vegetable mixture.

• Step 7: Combining Everything

  Stir everything well, ensuring that all ingredients are coated in the sauce. Cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.

• Step 8: Garnishing and Serving

  Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures as you dig into your delicious Kung Pao Chicken!

How to Serve Kung Pao Chicken

Serve Kung Pao Chicken over steamed rice or alongside fried rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even date nights at home.

How to Store Kung Pao Chicken

To store leftover Kung Pao Chicken, let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option; simply place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Expert Tips for Perfect Kung Pao Chicken

1. Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
2. Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or more Sichuan peppercorns.
3. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas.
4. Peanut Substitutes: If allergies to peanuts are a concern, you can use cashews or sunflower seeds instead.
5. Cornstarch Coating: A light coating of cornstarch helps to make the chicken juicy and tender when cooked.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Shrimp Kung Pao: Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this classic recipe.
• More Vegetables: Add broccoli, baby corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and mix the sauce a day before. Cook it fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.

2. What if I don’t have Sichuan peppercorns?
You can omit them or substitute with crushed red pepper flakes for some heat without the unique flavor.

3. Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other proteins like beef or pork, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

4. Is it gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

5. How can I make it less spicy?
If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount of Sichuan peppercorns or omit them entirely.

Conclusion

Kung Pao Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together wonderful flavors that are both familiar and exotic. With its quick preparation time and ease of cooking, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining with friends. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy its unique taste and satisfying crunch. Happy cooking!

Print