Kung Pao Chicken: A Bold and Spicy Chinese Flavor

Kung Pao Chicken is a timeless Chinese favorite, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and fiery heat. This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to recreate this popular dish at home. By following these easy steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to your  preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic  
• 1 tablespoon chopped ginger
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions  
• 1/4 cup dried red chili peppers (adjust to your  preference)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Combine the chicken cubes, cornstarch, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating, then let it rest for 10 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, chili oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl. Whisk together the cornstarch and water in a separate small bowl to form a slurry.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat until it’s hot and shimmering. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.

Make the Sauce

Toss the garlic and ginger into the same skillet, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrant aroma. Stir in the sauce mixture and bring it to a rapid boil. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the chicken back to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until it’s well coated. Stir in the peanuts, green onions, and dried red chili peppers, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds. Serve immediately over rice.

Tips

• Add more chili oil or dried red chili peppers for a spicier dish.
• If you don’t have dried red chili peppers, you can substitute them with red pepper flakes.  
• Add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers or broccoli.  
• Serve with steamed rice or noodles.  

Conclusion

Kung Pao Chicken delivers a flawless blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, making it a dish always guaranteed to hit the spot. By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and authentic meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to set off on a delicious culinary adventure!

Enjoy your homemade Kung Pao Chicken!