Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Quick & Easy Kung Pao Chicken, a delightful stir-fry that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine right into your home kitchen. This dish is a perfect blend of juicy chicken thighs, crunchy peanuts, and colorful bell peppers all enveloped in a sweet-savory sauce. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying—ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. The harmonious balance of spice from dried chilies adds an exciting kick, while the tender chicken and fresh vegetables create a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Get ready to savor every bite of this delicious culinary adventure!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (large diced)
- 5 green onions (chopped)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted)
- 10 whole dried Sichuan red chilies
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Optional: ground Sichuan peppercorn
Instructions
- Begin by dicing the chicken thighs into uniform cubes and marinate with cornstarch, baking soda, and soy sauce for about 15–20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar with water, vegetarian stir-fry sauce, rice vinegar, and dark soy sauce to create your sauce mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat and add marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan, then stir-fry Sichuan chilies for about 15 seconds before adding green onions and peanuts; sauté briefly.
- Add diced red bell peppers and return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the sauce mixture. Stir well for another 30 seconds until everything is coated and heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg