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Homemade Kung Pao Chicken recipe photo

Kung Pao Chicken

This Kung Pao Chicken is bursting with flavor! A spicy, savory dish loaded with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and crunchy peanuts.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 20 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs diced
For the Vegetables:
  • 2 pieces bell peppers (any color, diced)
  • 1 piece onion diced
For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper
For Cooking:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
For Garnish:
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Marinade. In a bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, balsamic vinegar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, brown sugar, sesame oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined. Add the diced chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
  2. Step 2: Cook the Chicken. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken (reserve the marinade) to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced bell peppers and onion, stirring for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender. Then, add the minced ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Combine Everything. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the reserved marinade over the mixture and stir everything together. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
  5. Step 5: Finish with Peanuts. Just before serving, stir in the roasted peanuts, mixing until well combined. The peanuts will add a delightful crunch to the dish.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for longer, up to an hour if you have the time.
  • Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of chili garlic sauce according to your preference.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for additional nutrition and flavor.