Spicy Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

on

Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Kung Pao Chicken recipe delivers a symphony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a fiery sauce makes this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken:

    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • For the Sauce:

    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
    • 1/4 cup water

  • For the Stir-Fry:

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
    • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
    • 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
    • 1/4 cup chopped onion
    • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
    • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add bell pepper and onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken and peanuts (if using) and cook until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken, about 2 minutes.

  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations:

  • Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir-fry, such as broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms.
  • Make it Nut-Free: If you're allergic to peanuts, you can omit them or substitute with cashews or almonds.

Enjoy your fiery and flavorful Kung Pao Chicken!