Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

This kung pao chicken is the perfect blend of sweet, sour and savory with a tinge of spice! It's a delicious one pot chicken recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

  • lb/450g chicken breast or thighs

    boneless, skinless

    1
  • garlic clove
    4
  • inch ginger
    ½
  • red chilies

    note 1

    6
  • peanuts

    roasted

    ¼ c
  • cooking oil
    ½ c
  • soy sauce
    1 tbsp
  • pepper powder

    black/white

    ½ tsp
  • cooking oil
    1 tbsp
  • cornstarch
    2 tbsp
  • light soy sauce
    1 tbsp
  • dark soy sauce
    ½ tbsp
  • hoisin sauce
    1 tbsp
  • vinegar

    note 2

    1 ½ tbsp
  • sugar
    1 tbsp
  • cooking wine

    note 3

    ½ tbsp

Directions

Prep

  1. 1

    Cut the chicken into bite sized pieces and transfer to a bowl. Toss the pieces with pepper powder and soy sauce. Next add in cooking oil and mix well. Finally coat the pieces with cornstarch and set it aside for 15-30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mince the ginger and garlic. Cut the white part of the scallions/green onions into 2-inch pieces. Cut the chilies in half and remove all the seeds.

  3. 3

    Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and set it aside.

Cooking

  1. 1

    Heat half cup of cooking oil in a wok on medium high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through. Set it aside.

  2. 2

    Retain 3 tbsp oil in the wok and reduce the heat to low. Stir fry the minced ginger and garlic for 1 minute. Next stir fry the dried red chilies for 30 seconds. Next add in the scallions/green onions and stir fry for 1 minute.

  3. 3

    Add back the fried chicken and stir fry for a minute. Pour in the sauce mix and stir fry for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.

  4. 4

    Add 1/4 cup roasted peanuts/cashews and mix well. Serve hot with plain rice, fried rice or noodles.

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

30 min

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About this Recipe

Master the Perfect Kung Pao Chicken at Home

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredible Kung Pao Chicken recipe that's a true celebration of flavors! This classic Chinese-inspired dish brings together the best of sweet, sour, and savory with an irresistible hint of spice, creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

What makes our Kung Pao Chicken truly special is its harmonious balance. Imagine tender pieces of chicken, whether you choose succulent chicken breast or juicy thighs, coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce. This isn't just any sauce; it’s a symphony of light and dark soy sauce, hoisin, vinegar, and sugar, all brought to life with aromatic garlic and ginger. The kick from dried red chilies and the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts seal the deal, creating an unforgettable texture and taste experience.

Best of all, this delicious meal is a one-pot chicken recipe marvel! In just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a vibrant, delicious, and genuinely satisfying meal on the table. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips for the Best Kung Pao Chicken:

  • Spice Level: Adjust the number of dried red chilies to suit your preference. For more heat, finely chop some of the chilies; for less, keep them whole.
  • Perfect Peanuts: Ensure your peanuts are roasted for that essential nutty crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: This Kung Pao Chicken is fantastic served over fluffy steamed rice to soak up every last drop of the rich sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried greens.

Frequently Asked Questions