Easy One-Skillet Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
Are you looking for a quick and flavorful dish that will thrill your taste buds? This easy one-skillet kung pao chicken recipe might just be your new favorite. It’s a stunning combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures, whipped up in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings the heat without overwhelming your schedule.
This recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings on cold winter evenings. My grandmother always had her own little twist on traditional dishes, and her kung pao was no exception. She taught me the technique of balancing the spicy, sour, and sweet elements in a way that it always felt like a warm hug in a bowl. I’ve carried forward her little secrets, and now, I am excited to share a version of this classic that fits the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect weekday winner for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it feasible for even the busiest days.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes post-dinner chores easier.
- Customizable Spice: Adjust the heat level to suit your taste by tweaking the amount of chili powder and peppers.
- Nutritious and Balanced: With protein, veggies, and healthy fats, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide a juicy texture, but you can use breast meat if preferred.
- Peanuts: For authenticity, use roasted unsalted peanuts; for a twist, try cashews.
- Veggies: Bell peppers add color and sweetness; feel free to add zucchini or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Soy Sauce and Rice Vinegar: These add umami and tang; substitute with tamari or balsamic vinegar if needed.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Adjust to spice preference; sriracha can be used as an alternative.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preparing your ingredients. Cube the chicken and chop the vegetables. Roasting the peanuts for a few minutes in the skillet enhances their flavor and crunch.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add another dash of oil if needed. Stir-fry the chopped bell peppers and any additional veggies until they just begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
Step 4
Return the chicken to the pan and add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Stir to coat all ingredients evenly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 5
Top with roasted peanuts before serving. For garnish, sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve with steamed rice or noodles if desired.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over medium heat. This dish freezes well for up to two months; just let it cool completely before freezing. Reheat from frozen for a quick meal.
Variations & Substitutions
Creativity in the kitchen keeps this recipe exciting. Swap chicken for firm tofu for a vegetarian take. Adjust the spice by reducing or increasing the chili garlic sauce. Try a medley of colors by using different types of bell peppers, or introduce pineapple chunks for a sweet surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with cubed firm tofu or tempeh. Ensure you brown the tofu well to give it a nice texture, and follow the remaining steps as usual. You might want to slightly increase the seasonings to adjust for the milder base.
What can I serve with this dish?
Kung pao chicken pairs well with steamed jasmine or basmati rice. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles make great alternatives. A side of stir-fried greens or a simple cucumber salad complements the flavors beautifully.
How do I adjust the spice level?
You control the heat by altering the amount of chili garlic sauce and the type of peppers you use. For a milder dish, decrease the sauce or omit fresh chili peppers. If you enjoy more spice, add extra sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
Remember it later
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Easy One-Skillet Kung Pao Chicken Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into cubes
- 1 cup bell peppers diced
- 0.5 cup roasted peanuts
- 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add soy sauce and cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly until sauce thickens.
- Mix in roasted peanuts and serve hot.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
