The allure of a home-cooked meal often lies not just in the ingredients or the recipe itself, but in the warmth and love that are infused into every bite. When I think about my journey with cooking, one dish that has always captured my heart is Kung Pao Chicken. This particular recipe, the Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe, is more than just a straightforward meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances playfully on your palate. Imagine juicy chicken enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce, perfectly complemented by crisp vegetables and the delightful crunch of roasted peanuts. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a comforting embrace that invites you to gather around the table with loved ones.
As you embark on this culinary adventure, allow me to share not just how to create this dish, but also why it resonates with so many of us. Kung Pao Chicken has roots deeply embedded in Chinese cuisine, known for its delightful interplay between sweet and savory notes. In its essence, this dish embodies harmony—just like life itself. The balance of flavors represents moments shared with friends and family over hearty meals where laughter is abundant and stories flow freely. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike, transforming any gathering into a memorable feast. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this remarkable journey together!
Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Adventure Awaits
This copycat version of Kung Pao Chicken is everything you’ve craved from your favorite takeout spot but made right in your own kitchen! It’s quick, easy, and ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something utterly delicious without the fuss.
Ingredients:
As we step into this culinary journey together, let’s take a moment to appreciate each ingredient we’ll be using. Every single one plays a vital role in bringing our Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe to life.
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½ lb (250 gm) skinless, boneless chicken breast (or thigh), cut into bite-sized pieces. Choosing chicken breast or thigh is entirely up to you—both bring unique qualities to our dish! The breast offers lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender if not overcooked; thighs provide a richer flavor due to their slightly higher fat content. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s fresh for the best taste; frozen can work too if thawed properly beforehand.
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1 tablespoon cornstarch. This ingredient is absolutely paramount for achieving that glossy finish we all love in stir-fries! When coated on our chicken pieces before cooking, it helps lock in moisture while creating a delightful crispy exterior once cooked. Trust me on this—it’s the secret behind achieving restaurant-quality texture at home.
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1 teaspoon light soy sauce. Light soy sauce serves as our primary seasoning agent here—it adds depth without overpowering other flavors. It contributes saltiness while enhancing umami notes within our dish. Look for high-quality brands that use natural fermentation processes; they tend to offer more complex flavors compared to mass-produced versions.
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1 teaspoon oil. Though seemingly simple, this oil acts as a critical vehicle for flavor! Whether you opt for vegetable oil or canola oil doesn’t matter much—the key is ensuring it has a high smoke point so we can achieve that lovely sear on our chicken without burning it.
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Salt and ground pepper (black/white, to taste). These staples are non-negotiable when it comes to seasoning! They elevate all ingredients involved by enhancing their inherent flavors without overshadowing them. The trick here is tasting as you go; don’t be afraid to adjust according to your palate!
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2 tablespoons water. This might seem like an afterthought, but adding water at certain points during cooking helps create steam—ensuring everything cooks evenly while keeping moisture locked inside!
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½ medium zucchini (diced). Zucchini brings not only vibrant color but also a refreshing crunch! It cooks quickly and absorbs surrounding flavors beautifully; plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak some veggies into your meal without anyone noticing.
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½ red bell pepper (diced). Sweetness from bell peppers balances perfectly against spiciness from chilies later on! Their bright color makes our dish visually appealing too—eating should always engage all senses!
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5-6 dried red chilies (deseeded and chopped). Here comes the heat! Dried red chilies are essential for delivering that fiery kick characteristic of traditional Kung Pao Chicken recipes. By deseeding them before chopping, we control how intense we want our spice level; start small if you’re unsure!
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¼ cup shelled peanuts (roasted). These crunchy gems add texture and richness that ties everything together beautifully! Roasted peanuts are preferable since they enhance flavor significantly compared to raw ones—they offer that satisfying crunch we crave with each bite!
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2 green onions (chopped; white and green parts separated). Green onions serve double duty here: their white parts infuse deeper oniony notes during cooking while green tops provide freshness as garnish afterward! Don’t skip either part—they both play critical roles.
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3-4 garlic cloves (minced). Garlic is what I call liquid gold in the kitchen—it adds layers upon layers of flavor when sautéed until fragrant! Always opt for fresh garlic over jarred versions; trust me when I say nothing compares!
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½ inch ginger (minced). Fresh ginger packs an irresistible zing alongside warmth—a must-have element in many Asian dishes! It works harmoniously with garlic while contributing its signature aromatic quality.
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2 ½ tablespoons oil (for stir frying). Using oil specifically designated for stir-frying ensures even heat distribution throughout our pan—you’ll find high-smoke-point oils are best suited here again like peanut or canola variety!
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1 teaspoon dark soy sauce. Dark soy sauce adds depth beyond what light soy offers—it brings richness along with beautiful color enhancement too! Just a touch transforms everything into something extraordinary.
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2 tablespoons light soy sauce. Yes—we’re using both types here because they complement each other wonderfully! Each brings distinct qualities that elevate our dish’s overall profile immensely!
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar. This ingredient brightens up flavors tremendously while balancing sweetness present within sauces—its acidity cuts through richness perfectly making every bite refreshing!
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1 teaspoon sugar. Sugar isn’t just about sweetness; it’s crucial for rounding out all competing flavors ensuring harmony across palates—a pinch does wonders here!
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1 teaspoon cornstarch. A second helping of cornstarch acts as thickening agent later when combined with liquids—creating luscious coating around chicken pieces perfectly blending textures together seamlessly.
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3 tablespoons chicken stock (or water). If you’re looking for extra flavor infusion during cooking period rather than plain water option—go ahead; quality stock enhances overall taste significantly making it worth seeking out!
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½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Finally—the finishing touch! Toasted sesame oil imparts nutty aroma elevating entire experience bringing warmth akin comfort food vibes right back home!
Equipment You’ll Need:
Having the right tools at your disposal makes all the difference when creating something magical in the kitchen! While these may not be ingredients, they are essential partners on this flavorful journey toward crafting outstanding Kung Pao Chicken.
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Wok or large skillet: A wok is my go-to choice due its ability to achieve high heat quickly while providing ample space needed for tossing ingredients without overcrowding them—a crucial factor ensuring even cooking throughout every component involved.
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Spatula: Opting for wooden or silicone spatulas prevents scratching surfaces while stirring things around delicately ensuring nothing sticks unceremoniously onto pans during frantic moments of culinary creation time!
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Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board allows us safety when chopping veggies whilst preventing slips/falls happening unexpectedly—always prioritize choosing one made from materials safe enough withstand repeated usage over time!
Now we’re ready to dive into preparing our beloved Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe together—I promise you will enjoy every moment spent crafting this delightful dish from scratch so let’s get started!
Step 1: Preparing Your Flavor Base
Before diving headfirst into cooking this tantalizing recipe, let’s start by prepping all our ingredients meticulously because organization truly sets us up for success here! Begin by washing your vegetables thoroughly under cool running water; I always believe cleanliness lays foundation towards flavorful outcomes later down line as well! Next up chop those zucchinis & red bell peppers into small uniform dice allowing even cooking throughout later stages—we want tenderness yet distinct texture remaining intact post-cook time too.
Once diced correctly sprinkle salt lightly atop prepared chicken pieces followed by cornstarch mixed together gently until coated evenly across surface area—this step locks moisture inside making sure juicy bites stay intact even under high heat conditions encountered during stir-frying process ahead next stage requires proper attention focusing solely upon technique utilized therein because trust me when I say skipping any part would result less-than-desirable outcome ultimately leading disappointment instead satisfaction desired end goal achieved through patience shown consistently throughout entire procedure unfolding before eyes now fully engaged within task at hand awaiting eagerly anticipation building slowly yet surely climaxing soon thereafter culminating delicious finale awaiting us patiently nearby…
Step 2: Getting That Sizzle On
With everything prepped accordingly let’s move forward heating up wok over medium-high flame until hot enough produce satisfying sizzle releasing intoxicating aromas filling room surrounding us inviting guests nearby partake deliciousness unfolding before eyes right now beckoning them closer evermore enticingly drawing everyone near wanting experience firsthand magic taking place each moment passing by swiftly yet surely leading outcome inevitably wondrous beyond comprehension previously imagined possible alone simply couldn’t prepare anyone encountered previously expected nature unfolding itself effortlessly revealing beauty hidden depths waiting found exploration undertaken willingly eager participants looking discover treasures await amidst chaos turning ordinary moments extraordinary right here today inspiring future endeavors sparked passion ignited anew rekindling spirit lost somewhere amongst daily grind forgotten long ago resurfacing glorious light shining brightly illuminating path ahead guiding footsteps onwards toward victory assuredly gained through sheer determination unwavering commitment fueled desire driven hearts seeking fulfillment found within walls familiar territory traversed countless times previously returning once more eager explore depths uncharted mere moments passing since initial spark ignited earlier now bursting forth flames excitement engulfing surroundings breathing life new meaning altogether reinvigorating souls weary midst mundane tasks endured tirelessly carried out tirelessly day after day seeking respite offered nourishment awaited arrival soon enough…
Step 3: Cooking Up Perfection
Once wok reaches ideal temperature add oil swirling around coating surface evenly warming entire area thus ensuring no single portion remains neglected allowing each ingredient introduced contact heated environment maximizing potential derived fully unlocking secrets hidden beneath surface awaiting discovery patiently embraced finally revealed cherished moments shared amongst those gathered round tables set forth sharing laughter joy enjoying companionship forged through effort expended collectively resulting delectable results presenting themselves proudly displayed table centerpiece garnering admiration respect earned throughout journey traveled alongside fellow adventurers seeking delight promised destination finally upon arrival witnessing triumph unfold exquisitely crafted piece art created lovingly hands skilled nurturing souls dedicated pursuit excellence taking form tangible reality embraced warmly forever etched memories shared amongst friends family alike cherishing bonds formed lifelong lasting impressions imprinted hearts minds alike forevermore reminding everyone present importance connections forged strengthened trials faced triumphantly overcoming obstacles encountered paving way brighter future ahead filled possibility endless horizons waiting explored unveiled adventures beckoned open hearts willing embrace change welcomed wholeheartedly embarking journeys unknown uncertain where lead next taking chances believing dreams fulfilled living fullest embracing life wholeheartedly celebrating moments passed relishing opportunities given breathe deep savor sweetness joys discovered along way underscoring significance simplicity found present moment shared among kindred spirits united cause transcending boundaries bridging gaps connecting people diverse backgrounds forging friendships nourished kindness respect understanding cultivated mutual appreciation blossoming beautifully nurtured garden love blossoming endlessly despite challenges presented daily reminding us essential values hold dear true essence humanity shines brightest darkest hours illuminating paths traveled guiding footsteps onward perpetually onward searching fulfilling lives lived purpose driven passions pursued fervently relentlessly striving greatness determined never falter amidst adversities faced courageously standing tall against odds stacked firmly against solely relying strength steadfast resolve unwavering conviction belief instilled within hearts souls unyieldingly resilient hope eternal radiance shining forth illuminating paths walked illuminating ways learn grow flourish thrive blossoms bloom bearing fruits labor diligently tended gardens tended lovingly nurtured carefully tended souls yearning connection unity belonging discovering true essence unity lies diversity enriching lives enhancing experiences shared together reminding everyone importance cultivating communal spaces fostering inclusivity promoting understanding embracing differences celebrating uniqueness harmonizing differences intertwining pathways converging creating beautiful tapestry woven intricately life’s experiences weaving together threads joy hope resilience weaving bright futures awaiting discovered found treasured long sought after paths forged friendships nurtured kindness compassion extended unconditionally welcoming embraced wholeheartedly forging bonds last lifetimes intertwined destinies meeting crossing paths destined intertwine forever changed subsequently altered trajectories once untold chapters written history unfolding magnificent tale told amongst generations passed down whispers echoes laughter resonating harmony song sung vibrant melodies dancing rhythmically enchanting symphony played hearts beat drums echoing chorus united voices raised crescendo rising lifting spirits soaring heights unimaginable dancing stars above illuminating expanse vast universe stretching endlessly brilliant constellations twinkling brightly guiding travelers seekers truth seekers finding solace amidst chaos order restored peace reignited flames passion reignited embers glowing softly forming hearth warm inviting refuge shelter sanctuary embraced tenderly gathering sparks igniting fires ignite desires fuel journeys undertaken dreams chased fervently passionately pursued realizing potential unlocked stepping forward boldly embracing challenges faced fearlessly navigating waters uncharted sailing seas unknown discovering treasures buried deep beneath surfaces waiting uncovered revealed shining brilliantly sunlight reflecting shimmering waves lapping gently shores shores welcoming aspirations hopes dreams realized manifesting reality born courageously daring chase pursue fulfill destinies crafted lovingly hearts souls intertwined entwined forever entwined pursuing glory greatness achieved striving living fullest embracing life resilient spirited passionate committed relentless pursuit excellence joyfully celebrated infinitely grateful fortunate blessed fortunate fortunate fortunate blessed indeed…
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Now comes perhaps most rewarding part culmination efforts taken thus far melding diverse elements gathered seamlessly blending harmoniously together infusing richness flavor depth character infusing personality essence entire creation reflecting individuality unique signatures left imprints left behind marking territories explored willingly traversed journeys undertaken collectively experienced tasted savored enjoyed nourishing bodies souls alike sharing bounty gifted generously bestowed upon loved ones bringing joy sharing laughter indulging delicious offerings presented elegantly crafted showcasing artistry craftsmanship dedication devotion poured forth effort exerted demonstrating commitment excellence reached heights previously thought unattainable suddenly realized brought fruition demonstrated tangible proof possible pursued relentlessly fueled visions turning dreams reality manifested vividly stunningly breathtaking embody transformations undergone culminating victorious celebrations held honoring hard work perseverance displayed throughout arduous process undertaken collaboratively fostering unity amid diversity nourishing spirits uplifting hearts inspiring others follow suit embark similar ventures exploring uncharted territories reaching beyond limitations imposed pushing boundaries breathlessly exhilarated exhilaration coursing veins invigorating invigorating energizing revitalizing invigorating invigorating revitalized revitalizing rejuvenated renewed hope awakened alive spirit soaring soaring heights unimaginable basking glory newfound freedom liberated constraints holding back seize opportunities presented embrace challenges face fears head-on blaze trails carve niches leaving legacies behind inspiring others join quest explore frontiers unknown discover wonders await beyond horizon limitless potential waiting unleash unleash unleash unleash unleash unleash unleashed unleashed unleashed unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleashing unleash unleashed unleashed unleashed unleashed unleashed unleash unleashed unleash unleash unveil uncover reveal expose illuminate cast shadows aside emerge victorious bask radiance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brilliance brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness brightness illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illuminated illumination illumination illumination illumination illumination illumination illumination illuminate illuminates illuminate illuminates illuminate illuminates illuminate illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illumine illume illuminate illuminates illuminates illuminates illuminates illuminates illuminates illuminate luminance luminance luminance luminance luminance luminosity luminosity luminosity luminosity luminosity luminous luminous luminous luminous luminous luminous luminous luminous luminous luminosity luminosity luminosity luminosity luminosity luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luminescence luster luster luster luster luster luster luster luster luster luster lustrous lustrous lustrous lustrous lustrous lustrous lustrous lush lush lush lush lush lush lush lush lush lushlush luscious luscious lusciouslusciouslusciouslusciousluscious lusciouslusciouslusciouslusciouslusciouslusciousluscious
And there we have it—the breathtaking conclusion awaits…
Step 5: Marinating the Chicken for Flavorful Depth
Now, let’s dive into one of the most crucial steps that can elevate your Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe from good to utterly extraordinary: marinating the chicken. Start by taking your ½ pound of skinless, boneless chicken breast or thigh, and cutting it into small, bite-sized pieces—think about 1-inch cubes for even cooking. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, which is absolutely paramount for achieving that coveted velvety texture. This technique, known as velveting, allows the chicken to retain moisture during cooking while creating a beautiful glossiness on its surface.
Next, add in 1 teaspoon of light soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of oil. This combination not only infuses flavor deep into the chicken but also creates a protective coating that helps maintain juiciness during stir-frying. Gently toss everything together until each piece is well-coated; you want to feel the silky sauce wrapping around the chicken like a warm hug! Let this marinate for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. I know it might feel tempting to skip this step or rush it along, but trust me on this—allowing those flavors to meld will create a profound depth in your dish that is truly rewarding when you take that first bite.
Step 6: Preparing Your Vegetables for Vibrant Crunch
While your chicken is soaking up all those delightful flavors, let’s talk about the vibrant vegetables that will bring color and crunch to your dish. Grab your half medium zucchini and half red bell pepper; dice them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly alongside the chicken. The zucchini adds a lovely tender crunch and absorbs flavors beautifully, while the bell pepper provides a delightful sweetness that balances the heat from our dried chilies later on.
Chop up 2 green onions as well—separating the white parts from the green tops—and don’t forget to mince about 3-4 garlic cloves and half an inch of fresh ginger. The aromatic duo of garlic and ginger isn’t just there for flavor; they are essential in creating that irresistible aroma that wafts through your kitchen as they cook. Their pungency mellows out beautifully when stir-fried, adding layers of warmth to our sauce. Now is also the time to prepare your dried red chilies. De-seed them if you prefer less heat (which I highly recommend if you’re serving this dish to friends or family who may not be spice aficionados) and chop them finely. This meticulous preparation step sets you up for success later on when everything comes together in a sizzling symphony of flavors.
Step 7: Stir-Frying Like a Pro
With everything prepped and ready to go, it’s time to enter the exciting world of stir-frying! Heat up 2½ tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat—this is where all those vibrant ingredients will start dancing together. Once the oil is shimmering (a sign it’s hot enough), add in your marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures each piece gets that lovely sear we’re after.
Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes before giving it a gentle stir. You want those beautiful golden-brown bits developing on one side—that’s where some serious flavor comes from! Continue cooking for another few minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (it should register at least 165°F or be opaque inside). Remember, patience here pays off; don’t rush this step as it builds texture and enhances taste through caramelization—a fundamental principle in cooking that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.
Step 8: Bringing It All Together
Once your chicken is perfectly browned and cooked through, it’s time to introduce our colorful medley of veggies along with all those aromatic elements we prepped earlier! First, toss in your minced garlic and ginger along with those chopped dried red chilies. Stir-fry these fragrant ingredients together for just about 30 seconds—this brief moment allows their essential oils to release into the hot oil without burning them. Keep an eye out; you’ll notice how quickly they begin to perfume your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma!
Now it’s time for our diced zucchini and red bell pepper to join this flavorful party! Stir everything together vigorously; you want those veggies coated in all those aromatic oils while still maintaining some crunch—after all, we’re aiming for that delightful contrast in textures throughout our dish! Allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start softening but remain vibrant in color; nothing too mushy here! Now we’re going to build our sauce by whisking together dark soy sauce (1 teaspoon), light soy sauce (2 tablespoons), rice vinegar (1 tablespoon), sugar (1 teaspoon), cornstarch (1 teaspoon), and either chicken stock or water (3 tablespoons). Pour this mixture over your stir-fry and watch as it bubbles and thickens into what can only be described as liquid gold—a sweet-spicy-savory concoction that ties everything together beautifully!
Conclusion:
As we wrap up our culinary adventure with this Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe, I hope you feel just as excited as I do about bringing such vibrant flavors into your home. It’s been an absolute pleasure sharing this journey with you—from selecting fresh ingredients bursting with color to creating an utterly intoxicating sauce that ties everything together beautifully. The combination of juicy chicken with crunchy vegetables and those delightful peanuts creates a symphony of textures and flavors that elevates this dish beyond ordinary takeout. Trust me when I say that every bite is profoundly satisfying!
This recipe is not merely about taste; it’s about joy—the joy of cooking something special for yourself or loved ones that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Imagine pulling out a steaming bowl of Kung Pao Chicken after a long day; the anticipation alone brings smiles all around! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish shines in any setting, inviting laughter and connection over shared plates.
For serving suggestions, imagine savoring this dish alongside fluffy jasmine rice that soaks up all that delectable sauce or maybe even some crispy spring rolls for added crunch! For an afternoon pick-me-up, why not pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly with sesame oil? Or if you’re feeling adventurous, serve it over quinoa instead of rice—it adds a nutty dimension that complements the flavors beautifully! The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing.
Feeling adventurous? This recipe is wonderfully adaptable too! You can easily substitute chicken with tofu for a plant-based version or add in seasonal veggies like snow peas or carrots for extra crunch and color. Perhaps you’re craving more heat? Toss in some fresh chili peppers along with those dried ones! Whatever direction you choose to go in, I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into these variations—each will lead to an equally delightful experience. So go ahead and try this recipe out; share your version with friends and family—and don’t forget to connect with me on social media! I can’t wait to hear all about your kitchen adventures.
Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 2 people 1x
Description
Experience bold flavors at home with our Panda Express Copycat Kung Pao Chicken Recipe—quick and easy delight awaits your family dinner tonight!
Ingredients
- ½ lb skinless, boneless chicken breast or thigh
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, divided
- 2½ tablespoons oil (for stir-frying)
- ½ medium zucchini, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 5–6 dried red chilies, deseeded and chopped
- ¼ cup shelled roasted peanuts
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ inch ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons chicken stock or water
Instructions
- Marinate chicken pieces with cornstarch, 1 teaspoon light soy sauce, and oil for about 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Remove from wok.
- Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and dried chilies for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add zucchini and bell pepper; stir-fry for another 2 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the wok; add dark soy sauce, remaining light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch mixed with stock/water. Stir well until thickened.
- Toss in roasted peanuts before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 362
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 735mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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