How to cook Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish originating from Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and combination of spicy, sweet, and savory elements. The dish typically features diced chicken that is marinated and stir-fried with peanuts, dried red chilies, and various vegetables such as bell peppers and scallions. Key ingredients often include soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Szechuan peppercorns, which add a distinctive numbing heat. The dish is popular for its crunchy texture from the peanuts and its vibrant, saucy appearance, making it a favorite in Chinese restaurants around the world.


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Published: Apr 23, 2025 - 12:17
How to cook Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish originating from Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and combination of spicy, sweet, and savory elements. The dish typically features diced chicken that is marinated and stir-fried with peanuts, dried red chilies, and various vegetables such as bell peppers and scallions. Key ingredients often include soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Szechuan peppercorns, which add a distinctive numbing heat. The dish is popular for its crunchy texture from the peanuts and its vibrant, saucy appearance, making it a favorite in Chinese restaurants around the world.

Kung Pao Chicken in the photo.

Here's a simple recipe for Kung Pao Chicken:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 8-10 dried red chilies (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 3 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and hoisin sauce (if using). Set aside.

  3. Stir-Fry the Chicken: In a hot wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

  4. Cook Aromatics: In the same pan, add dried red chilies and Szechuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Then, add garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions, cooking for another minute.

  5. Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper and stir-fry for a few minutes until slightly softened.

  6. Combine: Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and mix everything until well-coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

  7. Finish: Stir in the roasted peanuts and the green parts of the scallions. Adjust salt to taste.

  8. Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice and enjoy your homemade Kung Pao Chicken!

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables or adjusting spice levels as per your preference!

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