Kung Pao Chicken is a popular Chinese dish that offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures. With its tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant vegetables, this dish excites the taste buds. It’s a fantastic choice for dinner and can be made right in your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Kung Pao Chicken is a great idea because it’s not only full of flavor but also healthy and easy to prepare. You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a perfect family meal. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to explore the exciting tastes of Chinese cuisine.
How to Make Kung Pao Chicken
Making Kung Pao Chicken at home is quick and simple. Follow the steps below to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon roasted garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 3 green onions
- 8 to 10 chiles de arbol
- 1/2 cup peanuts
Directions
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, dry sherry, and cornstarch for about 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the ginger paste, roasted garlic paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir for another minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the red and green bell peppers, green onions, and chiles de arbol. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with granulated sugar and rice vinegar to create a sauce. Pour over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Finally, mix in the peanuts and cook for an additional minute until everything is well combined. Serve hot.
How to Serve Kung Pao Chicken
Serve Kung Pao Chicken hot over a bed of rice or with steamed noodles. You can also sprinkle extra peanuts on top for added crunch and flavor. It’s an excellent dish for sharing at family meals or gatherings.
How to Store Kung Pao Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Kung Pao Chicken can last for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Kung Pao Chicken
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chiles de arbol based on your spice preference.
- Use fresh vegetables for a crispier texture.
Variation
You can switch up the proteins by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. This variation keeps the dish exciting while still being delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I make Kung Pao Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
2. Is Kung Pao Chicken very spicy?
The spice level depends on how many chiles de arbol you use. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of chiles.
3. Can I use any other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can use cashews or almonds as a substitute for peanuts if you prefer.
