Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!)

Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!) is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors wrapped around tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and crisp vegetables. This dish is a beloved classic that brings a satisfying kick to your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight meal or cooking for a crowd, this recipe delivers bold taste and texture with ease. The balance of hoisin and soy sauces, a touch of sugar, and aromatic spices makes it irresistible. Plus, the use of simple ingredients ensures you can whip it up anytime with what’s likely already in your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!) is a dish that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Here’s why it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce creates a rich, savory base with a touch of sweetness and umami.
• Textural Delight: Tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and crisp veggies provide a satisfying bite every time.
• Family-Friendly: Adjustable spice level means everyone can enjoy this meal together.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredient Rundown

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing chicken and vegetables to a perfect golden brown.
• Yellow onion (1/2 large, diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Red bell pepper (1 whole, diced): Brings vibrant color and crispness.
• Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless breasts (1 pound): The protein star of the dish, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
• Red dried chiles (to taste): Provides that signature spicy kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Scallions (3, sliced thin): Freshness and mild onion flavor for garnish and extra bite.
• Salted and roasted peanuts (1/4 cup): Adds crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
• Cold water (1/2 cup): Used to create the sauce and adjust consistency.
• Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Sweet and tangy base for the sauce.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Salty and umami-rich, it deepens the flavor profile.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 tablespoons): Balances the heat and saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
• Corn starch (1/2 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce for that perfect clingy texture.
• Worcestershire sauce (1/2 tablespoon): Adds complexity and a subtle tang to the sauce.
• Sesame oil (1/2 tablespoon): Brings a toasty, aromatic finish to the dish.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Essential aromatic that infuses the chicken with flavor.
• Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a slight zing to balance the sauce.

Gear Checklist

• Large skillet or wok: For stir-frying chicken and vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: To dice onions, bell peppers, and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For precise sauce measurements.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients before adding them to the skillet.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring during cooking without scratching your cookware.
• Serving plate or bowl: To present your delicious Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!).

Cooking Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!): The Process

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the yellow onion and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Slice the scallions thinly, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken tenders or breasts into evenly sized chunks for quick, uniform cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup cold water, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, granulated sugar, corn starch, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Set this flavorful mixture aside; it will thicken beautifully as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot pan. Stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables and Chiles

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Toss in the dried red chiles (adjust quantity for your preferred heat level). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but still retain some crunch.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken and coat the chicken and veggies in a glossy glaze within a few minutes.

Step 6: Add Peanuts and Scallions

Just before serving, fold in the salted and roasted peanuts for crunch and the sliced scallions for freshness. Give everything a final toss to combine and heat through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!) hot, ideally over steamed rice or alongside your favorite grain. The layers of flavor and texture will make every bite a delight.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm Weather: Swap the cooked chicken for grilled chicken tenders and toss the finished dish over a fresh Crunchy Cucumber Ranch Chicken Wraps for a lighter, refreshing twist.
• Cool Weather: Serve with comforting sides like Oven Baked Chicken And Rice to create a hearty, warming meal.
• For an extra layer of heat in any season, pair with spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs for a fiery feast.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce doesn’t thicken, mix an additional 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch with cold water and stir it in while simmering.
• Chicken Overcooked: Cut chicken into uniform pieces and cook over medium-high heat for best results. Remove from heat as soon as juices run clear.
• Too Spicy: Reduce the number of dried red chiles or remove seeds before cooking to lower heat without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetables Too Soft: Stir-fry vegetables quickly over high heat to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftovers refrigerate well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Popular Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and can add extra flavor. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how many dried red chiles you use. Start with a small amount and add more if you want extra heat. Removing seeds from the chiles also reduces spiciness.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth or water in place of the chicken stock if your sauce calls for it. Keep the peanuts and veggies for the classic crunch and flavor.

What should I serve with Kung Pao Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even noodles. For sides, consider simple stir-fried greens or a light cucumber salad.

Cook This Next

• Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs – A perfect spicy-sweet chicken recipe to complement your dinner rotation.
• Oven Baked Chicken And Rice – A comforting one-pan meal that pairs beautifully with Asian-inspired dishes.
• Crunchy Cucumber Ranch Chicken Wraps – A fresh, crunchy wrap ideal for warmer days or lighter lunches.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to dive into making this delicious Kung Pao Chicken (Family Favorite!). Gather your ingredients, prep your workspace, and follow the steps for a quick, flavorful meal everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings and impress with its perfect balance of heat, sweet, and umami. Enjoy the cooking journey and the fantastic flavors that come with it!

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