Quick and Easy Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

Discover how to make a delicious and budget-friendly Kung Pao Chicken in just 30 minutes!

Key Takeaway:

Learn a simple yet flavorful recipe for Kung Pao Chicken that’s quick to prepare and packs a punch of taste.

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need for this Kung Pao Chicken recipe:

• Sauce:
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 15g ginger, grated
• 125ml low sodium soy sauce
• 60ml hoisin sauce
• 40ml shaoxing cooking wine (optional)
• 15ml sesame oil
• 2g toasted and crushed Szechuan peppercorns
• 9g granulated sugar
• 12g corn flour
• Pepper, to taste
• Chicken:
• 1.2 kg boneless, skinless chicken thigh, diced
• 1/4 cup of prepared marinade (from above)
• Vegetables:
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 long red chilies, chopped (optional for spice)
• 6 spring onions, chopped
• Rice:
• 300g jasmine rice
• 500ml cold water
• Pinch of salt
• Optional Garnish:
• 50g chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Sauce:

• Combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, cooking wine (if using), sesame oil, Szechuan peppercorns, sugar, corn flour, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.

1. Cook Rice:

• Rinse jasmine rice under cold water.
• In a saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes. Let it sit covered for an additional 4 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

1. Marinate Chicken:

• Place diced chicken thigh in a bowl and add 1/4 cup of the prepared marinade. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

1. Prepare Vegetables:

• Slice bell peppers into thin strips. Remove seeds and pith.
• Chop long red chilies into 2cm pieces.
• Separate white and green parts of spring onions. Chop white parts into 3-4cm pieces and thinly slice green parts for garnish.

1. Toast Peanuts (Optional):

• In a small pan, toast chopped peanuts over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

1. Cook Chicken:

• Heat peanut oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
• Add marinated chicken in batches and cook for 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

1. Stir-Fry Vegetables:

• In the same pan, stir-fry bell peppers and chopped chilies (if using) until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add chopped white parts of spring onions and cook for another 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

1. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Return cooked chicken to the pan with stir-fried vegetables.
• Pour in the remaining sauce and stir well to coat. Cook for 1 minute until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken and vegetables.

1. Assemble and Serve:

• Divide cooked jasmine rice into serving bowls or containers.
• Top with Kung Pao chicken and vegetables.
• Garnish with toasted peanuts and sliced green spring onions.

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Calories: Approximately 620
• Protein: Approximately 45g

Cost Breakdown:

• Total Cost per Serving: Approximately $5.50

Conclusion:

Enjoy the bold flavors of homemade Kung Pao Chicken without breaking the bank. This recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a savory-spicy sauce that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Adjust the spice level by adding or omitting chilies according to your preference.

Save time and money with this easy-to-follow recipe that delivers on taste and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for one or meal prepping for the whole week, Kung Pao Chicken offers a satisfying and affordable dining option. Customize your dish with your favorite vegetables and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

Make mealtime exciting with this flavorful Kung Pao Chicken recipe—ideal for those seeking a balanced and budget-friendly dining solution. Elevate your cooking skills with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for busy schedules and hungry appetites.

Dive into a culinary adventure with Kung Pao Chicken, showcasing the versatility and simplicity of homemade Chinese cuisine. From pantry staples to fresh ingredients, this recipe caters to both taste and convenience, ensuring a delicious meal every time.