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Kung Pao Chicken

Irresistible Kung Pao Chicken Ready in 30 Minutes!

Enjoy a delicious Kung Pao Chicken meal with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant bell peppers in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Tender and flavorful; can substitute with chicken breasts.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Acts as a tenderizer and thickening agent.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce Substitute with vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a vegan option.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Balances the savory elements.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic enhances aroma and taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Freshly grated ginger adds warmth.
For the Stir-Fry
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Choose a neutral oil for frying.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Can use any bell pepper.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Chives are a suitable substitute.
  • 3 pieces Dried Sichuan Red Chilies Can be omitted for a milder version.
  • 0.5 cups Roasted Peanuts Consider cashews as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pan
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine the chicken with cornstarch, soy sauce, a pinch of baking soda, and a splash of vegetable oil. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
  2. While the chicken marinates, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and sugar in a small bowl. Set this aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add dried Sichuan red chilies, chopped green onions, and roasted peanuts. Stir-fry for 15 seconds, then add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for another 30 seconds.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  6. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your choice of nuts or tofu for a vegetarian option without losing flavor.

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