Are you looking to spice up your dinner routine with a classic Chinese dish? Look no further than Kung Pao Chicken! This flavorful and spicy dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will explore the history of Kung Pao Chicken, the key ingredients that make it so delicious, and a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home.
Reasons to Make Kung Pao Chicken
- It’s a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many for its bold flavors and spicy kick.
- It’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it extra spicy or more on the mild side.
- It’s a great way to introduce new flavors and ingredients into your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
- 2-3 dried red chilies
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, ginger, peanuts, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Tips for Making Kung Pao Chicken:
- For extra heat, add more dried red chilies or a dash of chili oil.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish – try adding broccoli, snow peas, or water chestnuts for added crunch.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Use a wok if you have one for a more authentic stir-fry experience.
Conclusion
Kung Pao Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its bold flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with this classic Chinese recipe?