How to Make Kung Pao Chicken: Simple and Delicious

Kung Pao Chicken is a popular Chinese stir-fry recipe from Sichuan cuisine, blending tender chicken, bell peppers, and roasted nuts in a rich, tangy sauce. This classic dish is well-loved for its perfect mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making it a family favorite. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through how to make Kung Pao Chicken at home with an easy step-by-step process!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Chicken Breast: 300g, cubed (a protein-rich base for the stir-fry)
• Bell Peppers (Capsicum): ½ cup each of red, green, and yellow for color and crunch
• Roasted Peanuts or Cashew Nuts: ¼ cup, lightly roasted for added crunch

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: 3 tbsp for depth and umami
• Oyster Sauce: 2 tbsp for rich flavor
• Rice Vinegar: 1 tbsp for tanginess
• Tomato Sauce (Ketchup): 1 tbsp for sweetness
• Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp for thickness
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, Prepare Chicken and Vegetables
   Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
2. Next, Make the Sauce
   Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to create the sauce.
3. Then, Cook the Chicken
   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, stir-fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden, and then set it aside.
4. Afterward, Stir-Fry the Vegetables
   In the same pan, stir-fry the bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crunchy.
5. Now, Combine Chicken and Vegetables
   Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, pour the sauce over, and stir for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Finally, Garnish with Nuts
   Sprinkle roasted peanuts or cashew nuts on top just before serving.

Check out more Chicken Recipes

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kung Pao Chicken hot, preferably with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles on the side. Both options help balance the bold flavors of the dish. For more variety, consider these side dishes:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice:
   The soft, fragrant rice absorbs the rich Kung Pao sauce, making it a perfect base for the dish.
2. Fried Rice:
   A flavorful alternative, fried rice with vegetables or egg complements the savory notes of the Kung Pao Chicken. Check our easy egg fried rice recipe.
3. Stir-Fried Noodles:
   Noodles such as lo mein or chow mein provide another layer of texture and make the meal more filling.
4. Quinoa or Brown Rice:
   For a healthier twist, serve Kung Pao Chicken with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Any of these options will make for a satisfying and balanced meal when paired with Kung Pao Chicken.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg

Important Notes:

1. Use of Nuts: Roasted peanuts or cashew nuts are essential to the dish. They add a crunchy texture and enhance the overall flavor. If you have a nut allergy, you can replace them with seeds, such as pumpkin seeds.
2. Capsicum Selection: The variety of bell peppers adds both flavor and visual appeal. Red peppers are sweet, green are more peppery, and yellow is mild, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
3. Seasoning: Because both soy sauce and oyster sauce are salty, be cautious when adding extra salt. Taste the dish first to ensure it's properly seasoned.
4. Vegan Version: If you prefer a plant-based option, substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein, and the rest of the ingredients can remain the same.