Kung Pao Chicken Skillet
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary flavors of Kung Pao Chicken Skillet, a delightful culinary creation that will transport you to the bustling streets of Sichuan. This mouthwatering dish features succulent pieces of chicken, stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a generous handful of crunchy peanuts. The star of the show is the irresistible Kung Pao sauce, a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors that coats every morsel with pure bliss.
As you take your first bite, you’ll be greeted with a symphony of tastes and textures. The tender chicken, infused with the rich flavors of the Kung Pao sauce, offers a delightful contrast to the crispness of the bell peppers and the satisfying crunch of the peanuts. Each ingredient works in perfect harmony, creating a culinary masterpiece that dances on your palate.
Savour the tantalising flavours of Kung Pao Chicken Skillet, a dish that will take your taste buds on a remarkable adventure. Think of juicy bell peppers, crisp peanuts, and tender chicken pieces, all drenched in a flavorful Kung Pao sauce. This mouthwatering medley of hot, sweet, and tangy flavours is presented on a sizzling skillet and will excite your palate and leave you hankering for more. Prepare to go on a gourmet journey that highlights the finest of Asian cooking as you savour every mouthwatering bite of this legendary Kung Pao Chicken Skillet.
Secure the exotic fondness of the Kung Pao chicken skillet by following these suggestions:
Use high-quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken to ensure the best taste and juiciness. Look for chicken that is moist and free from any unpleasant odors.
Cook in batches: To prevent overcrowding the skillet, cook the chicken in batches. This allows the chicken to brown evenly and retain its juiciness. Overcrowding the skillet can result in steaming instead of searing the chicken.
Add the chicken towards the end: If your recipe includes vegetables or other ingredients, add the chicken towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking. This ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Stir-fry quickly: Stir-fry the chicken quickly, tossing it frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the skillet. This helps retain the juiciness and enhance the flavors.
Use a sauce sparingly: When adding the Kung Pao sauce, use it sparingly at first. You can always add more later if needed. This prevents the chicken from becoming overly saturated and helps maintain its juiciness.
Rest before serving: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Serves 4
Step 1
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Step 3
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the Kung Pao sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4
Add the unsalted peanuts to the skillet and stir to combine.
Step 5
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6
Serve the Kung Pao Chicken Skillet hot, garnishing it with some extra peanuts and sliced green onions for added freshness and texture.
Step 7
Enjoy the delicious combination of tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant vegetables coated in the bold and flavorful Kung Pao sauce.
Step 8
Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a hearty and full supper!
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2-3 tbs Kung Pao Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and tenderness to the dish. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of unsalted peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts for added flavor. However, be aware that roasted peanuts may already be salted, so you may need to adjust the amount of additional salt in the dish.
Can I use bone-in chicken for Kung Pao Chicken Skillet?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe. Keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make Kung Pao Chicken Skillet in advance?
While it’s best to serve it fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, such as marinating the chicken and chopping the vegetables, to save time. Cook the dish just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I use leftover Kung Pao Chicken Skillet in other recipes?
Absolutely! Leftover Kung Pao Chicken Skillet can be used as a filling for wraps, tossed with noodles for a quick stir-fry, or even added to fried rice for a flavourful twist.
Can I garnish the dish with other ingredients?
Yes, you can garnish the Kung Pao Chicken Skillet with sliced green onions, cilantro leaves, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added visual appeal and flavour.
Prep Time 20 mins
Serves 4
