Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, grated
- 2-3 tbsp doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine diced chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together doubanjiang, sugar, vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Stir-Fry Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, add the sauce, and toss to coat everything evenly. Stir in peanuts and green onions, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the Kung Pao Chicken over steamed rice and enjoy!
Notes
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
Spicy and Tangy Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
Craving something that packs a punch? This Kung Pao Chicken is your answer, bringing bold flavors and a delightful mix of textures to your dinner table. It’s a classic dish that combines tender chicken with crunchy peanuts, vibrant bell peppers, and a spicy sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick yet satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s easily adaptable – whether you prefer it mild or spicy, the choice is yours.
Imagine sitting down to a plate of Kung Pao Chicken, the aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the air. The crispy peanuts add a wonderful crunch, while the juicy chicken is coated in a sticky, savory sauce. It’s a culinary experience that you won’t forget.
Authentic and Flavorful Kung Pao Chicken
This Kung Pao Chicken stands out with its vibrant colors and enticing aroma. The succulent chicken pieces are stir-fried to perfection, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Fresh vegetables, including bell peppers, contribute to a delightful crunch, making the dish not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Ingredients that Shine
The heart of Kung Pao Chicken lies in its ingredients. Tender chicken breast, marinated to absorb a medley of flavors, creates a base that is both savory and satisfying. Accompanying the chicken, you’ll find crunchy peanuts that add texture and richness to each bite. Colorful bell peppers bring a splash of color, while green onions provide a fresh finish, elevating the overall dish.
A Symphony of Flavors
The dish is a harmonious balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes. A special sauce made from doubanjiang, sugar, vinegar, and sesame oil coats the chicken, creating a glossy, rich layer of flavor that clings to every piece. This delightful mixture not only enhances the taste but also gives the dish its signature appeal.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Preparing Kung Pao Chicken can be done in just a few simple steps. Begin by marinating the chicken, allowing it to soak up the soy sauce and rice wine for added depth. The actual stir-frying process is quick, taking only minutes to achieve the perfect tenderness and crispness in the vegetables. Combining everything at the end results in a dish that’s ready to impress.
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
When serving Kung Pao Chicken, fluffy white rice is a classic choice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, complementing the vibrant chicken and vegetables beautifully. For those looking to customize their experience, consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for an added crunch.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
Not only is Kung Pao Chicken delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. With lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the peanuts, this meal supports a balanced diet. Each serving provides a satisfying amount of protein while keeping calories in check, making it a great option for health-conscious diners.