Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Known for its combination of tender chicken pieces, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The stir-fry method used in Kung Pao Chicken ensures the chicken remains juicy, while the sauce, made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili, coats the ingredients in a rich and tangy glaze. The contrasting textures and bold flavors make it a standout recipe that’s easy to prepare yet impressive on the table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 500g (cut into cubes) |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Dark soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Shaoxing wine | 1 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Dried red chilies | 8-10 pieces |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 tbsp |
| Green onions | 4 stalks (cut into 1-inch pieces) |
| Peanuts (roasted) | 1/2 cup |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Chili paste | 1 tsp (optional for extra heat) |
Method of Preparation
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, and the cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Stir-fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-fry the aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the dried red chilies, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine and finish: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan, along with the green onions and peanuts. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together, making sure all the ingredients are coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Once the Kung Pao Chicken is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional green onions and peanuts for a decorative touch.
Presentation & Decoration
Serve the Kung Pao Chicken hot, with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice on the side. You can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro to enhance the visual appeal. For a more traditional presentation, you can place the dish in a deep, round plate and serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may even provide a juicier texture. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
To increase the heat, add more dried red chilies or a teaspoon of chili paste. To reduce the spiciness, use fewer chilies and remove their seeds before cooking.
Is Kung Pao Chicken gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, so if you need a gluten-free version, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of Kung Pao Chicken.
What can I serve with Kung Pao Chicken?
Kung Pao Chicken pairs well with steamed white rice, fried rice, or even noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a light Asian cucumber salad would also complement the flavors perfectly.
Conclusion
Kung Pao Chicken is an easy-to-make dish that brings together the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine with a delightful balance of heat, sweetness, and tang. The contrasting textures of tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and spicy chilies make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy it with a side of rice or noodles, and don’t forget to customize the heat level to suit your taste!
By following this recipe, you can master the art of making Kung Pao Chicken right in your kitchen perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal any day of the week.
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