How to Cook Chinese Kung Pao Chicken?

 Chinese Kung Pao Chicken

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green chilies
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar rice wine or dry sherry
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of minced ginger.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional for a spicier kick)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (according to your spice preference)
• Steamed white rice, to serve

Preparation:

• Make the marinade by mixing soy sauce, rice wine, or dry sherry, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
• Place the bite-sized pieces of chicken in the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes.
•   In a wok or large frying pan, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Add ginger, garlic, Sichuan peppercorns (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes. Fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the marinated chicken to the pan and fry until the chicken is cooked and lightly browned.
• Add in the chopped red and green bell peppers and saute for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
• Mix in the roasted peanuts and chopped green onions, reserving some of the green onions for garnish.
• Stir everything together and saute for another 1-2 minutes until the flavors meld.
• Serve the Kung Pao Chicken piping hot over steamed white rice, garnished with the remaining green onions.

Nutrition facts (per serving):

• Sodium: 890 mg
• Calories: 320
• Fat: 17 grams
• Carbohydrates: 12 grams
• Protein: 28 grams
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g

Experience the bold and irresistible flavors of China with this classic Kung Pao Chicken. It's a delightful blend of tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant vegetables, all coated in a delicious and spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!