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+ servings

Kung Pao Chicken

A bold and flavorful dish with diced chicken, peanuts, and a savory sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast (diced) The star protein of the dish! Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup peanuts Adds crunch and signature taste. Cashews can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 each bell pepper (diced) Red or yellow preferred for color, but any bell pepper will do.
  • 3 each scallions (chopped) Provides freshness.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances flavor.
  • 1 inch ginger (minced) Contributes to unique Kung Pao taste.

Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce Base of the sauce, imparting savory flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce Adds sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Provides tang.
  • 1 tablespoon chili paste or sauce Adjust based on desired spiciness.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Used for sautéing chicken.

For Serving

  • as needed serving cooked rice Serve Kung Pao Chicken over rice.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional minute.
  • Add the diced bell pepper, chopped scallions, and peanuts, stir-frying for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste.
  • Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, mixing well.
  • Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Serve hot over a bed of warm rice.

Notes

For best results, don’t rush the browning stage; let the chicken get a bit crispy. Use fresh ingredients for better flavor. Adjust chili paste for spice tolerance, and feel free to add more vegetables if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword Chinese Cuisine, Kung Pao Chicken, Quick Dinner, Stir Fry, Weeknight Meal
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