Delicious Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
Kung Pao Chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine. Originating from the Sichuan province, this dish has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It was named after a governor, Ding Baozhen, who was known as “Kung Pao.” Many people love Kung Pao Chicken for its delicious combination of spicy, sweet, and nutty flavors.
This dish typically features diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables, all stir-fried together in a flavorful sauce. The mix of textures and tastes makes it exciting and appealing to everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, Kung Pao Chicken is sure to grab your attention and delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken Breast | 1 pound, diced |
| Peanuts | ½ cup, unsalted |
| Bell Pepper | ½ cup, diced |
| Green Onions | 2, chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon, minced |
| Sichuan Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Rice Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried Red Chilies | 2-5, to taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This will make the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Prepare the Sauce: In another bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a little water. Stir well and set aside.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until it is cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Add Aromatics: In the same pan, add the minced garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper and green onions. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crispy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce mixture, and add the peanuts. Stir well for another 2-3 minutes until everything is combined and heated through.
- Serve: Serve your Kung Pao Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the amazing flavors!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 34% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of dried red chilies to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Protein Alternatives: You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or use shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Mise en Place: Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook. This way, everything will be ready to go when you need it!
- Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender!
FAQs
What does Kung Pao Chicken taste like?
Kung Pao Chicken has a unique flavor profile that combines savory, spicy, and slightly sweet tastes. The peanuts add a nice crunch to the dish.
Can I make Kung Pao Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Kung Pao Chicken in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Is Kung Pao Chicken gluten-free?
To make Kung Pao Chicken gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
What can I serve with Kung Pao Chicken?
Kung Pao Chicken is best served with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also add stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition!
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can increase or reduce the amount of dried chilies according to your taste preferences.
Is there a vegetarian version of Kung Pao Chicken?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cubes of tofu or even tempeh for a delicious vegetarian Kung Pao dish.
Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can use cashews or almonds if you prefer or if you have nut allergies.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
What is the origin of Kung Pao Chicken?
Kung Pao Chicken originated in the Sichuan province of China and was named after a governor in the late 19th century.
Why is it called Kung Pao Chicken?
The dish is named after Ding Baozhen, who was known as “Kung Pao.” The term “Kung Pao” means “Palace Guardian” in Chinese.
Can I make Kung Pao Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook the marinated chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker on low for about 4 hours for a different cooking method.
Is Kung Pao Chicken healthy?
Kung Pao Chicken can be healthy if made with lean chicken, plenty of vegetables, and minimal oil. Adjust the ingredients to suit your health goals!
Now you are ready to try your hand at making this delicious Kung Pao Chicken! Enjoy the cooking process and the wonderful meal that comes out of it!
