Looking for more better-than-takeout recipes? Try these: dynamite shrimp, easy fried rice, and Szechuan beef!
Homemade Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
Craving some spicy-sweet Kung Pao chicken but short on time? This recipe is the answer. We’re ditching the deep-frying for a lighter pan-fry, but trust me, the flavor doesn’t skimp. The homemade kung pao sauce is so amazing – garlicky, vinegary, with a sneaky chili kick. Stir-fried together with chopped bell peppers and peanuts, this homemade Kung Pao chicken is the perfect combination of flavors and textures! Homemade kung pao chicken is weeknight-friendly, party-approved, and guaranteed to leave your tastebuds singing. It’s always a hit with everyone! So grab your wok, crank up the heat, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredient List
Here’s everything you’ll need for the crispy pan-fried chicken and the amazing sauce to coat it with! All measurements are in the recipe card at the end of the post.
Chicken: Cut your chicken breasts into uniform, small pieces so everything cooks evenly. Cornstarch & Eggs: For the crispy, golden coating! This duo creates a crunchy shell that seals in juiciness and lets the sauce cling around each piece of chicken. Dried Red Chili Pepper: So the kung pao chicken has its classic spice. Remember, a little goes a long way! Garlic & Ginger: Minced finely, they’ll infuse the whole dish with their flavor. Soy Sauce & Rice Vinegar: The salty-tangy dream team! Soy brings umami richness, while rice vinegar adds a tangy punch. Chinkiang Vinegar: Adds a complex, mellow sweetness that rounds out the sauce. You can find this online or at your local Asian grocer. Red Chili Paste: This fiery jam packs a concentrated punch of spice. Use a light hand at first, you can always add more later if you want more spice. Bell Peppers: Add juicy crunch and vibrant pops of color. They’re the confetti cannons of the stir-fry, making every bite a fiesta. Peanuts: For texture and nutty flavor. Green Onions: Chopped to add a garnish on top.
How to Make Kung Pao Chicken
Heat up that wok, because it’s time to make a knockout dinner! This homemade kung pao chicken is packed with so much flavor, everyone will love it!
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