Kung Pao Chicken
Why make this recipe
Kung Pao Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors, a little bit of heat, and crunchy textures. It is a popular Chinese dish that many love for its rich taste and easy preparation. When you make Kung Pao Chicken at home, you get to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress friends at a gathering!
How to make Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients
- 1½ lb chicken tenderloins, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1½ tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Asian/toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions
- In a bowl, combine chicken with the marinade ingredients (1½ tablespoons soy sauce, dry sherry, and cornstarch). Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the sauce ingredients (hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sugar, balsamic vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch) and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through.
- Add the sauce to the chicken, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
How to serve Kung Pao Chicken
Serve Kung Pao Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crushed peanuts on top for added flavor and crunch. Pair it with a simple side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to store Kung Pao Chicken
Store any leftover Kung Pao Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in a pan until heated through.
Tips to make Kung Pao Chicken
- For extra flavor, you can add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews when serving.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and chili to your taste. If you like it spicier, add some crushed red pepper or sliced chilies.
- Make sure your pan is hot enough to get a nice sear on the chicken, which adds flavor to the dish.
Variation
You can customize Kung Pao Chicken by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just stir-fry them with the chicken for a colorful and nutritious dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
A: Yes! You can use shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q: Is Kung Pao Chicken very spicy?
A: The spice level can vary. You can control it by adjusting the amount of chili or adding more sugar.
Q: Can I make Kung Pao Chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook it right before serving for the best taste.
Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine chicken with the marinade ingredients (soy sauce, dry sherry, and cornstarch). Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the sauce ingredients (hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sugar, balsamic vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch) and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until cooked through.
- Add the sauce to the chicken, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with steamed rice. You can add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or crushed peanuts on top.
