Easy Kung Pao Chicken
Whenever I find myself craving something packed with flavor, I turn to Easy Kung Pao Chicken. This dish has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of cozy nights spent with friends, sharing delicious food and laughter. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a touch of spice creates a harmony that’s impossible to resist. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made this recipe, and how the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in like a magnet. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also leaves you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, Easy Kung Pao Chicken is sure to impress!
Recipe Snapshot
28 mins
20 mins
8 mins
Medium
320 kcal
30 g
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free
15 g
Cutting Board, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon
The Best Thing About This Easy Kung Pao Chicken
It’s A Flavor Explosion!
One of the things I absolutely love about Easy Kung Pao Chicken is the explosion of flavors in every bite. The balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet notes create a symphony that dances on your palate. When it comes to cooking, I believe that flavor should never be compromised, and this dish certainly delivers.
Quick and Effortless
We all lead busy lives, and the beauty of this recipe is how quick it is to prepare. In less than thirty minutes, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on your table. This makes it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients in Easy Kung Pao Chicken are super versatile. You can easily swap zucchini for snow peas or add in your favorite veggies based on what you have on hand. This flexibility allows for creativity in the kitchen, making the dish perfect for anyone’s taste!
Healthy Option
Another reason to love this dish is its health-conscious aspect. With lean chicken and an array of vegetables, it’s packed with protein and nutrients. Plus, I appreciate that it’s gluten-free when using the right ingredients, making it a great choice for everyone around the table.
Impressive Presentation
Easy Kung Pao Chicken isn’t just about taste; it looks stunning too! Bright colors from the red bell pepper and zucchini make it a feast for the eyes. Serving this dish can easily elevate your dinner parties and family gatherings, impressing your guests without much effort!
Leftover Delight
I can’t forget to mention how well leftovers hold up! If you happen to have any, they make for a fantastic next-day lunch. Just a quick reheat in the microwave, and you have a meal that tastes just as good as the first time around.
Ingredients to Make Easy Kung Pao Chicken
When it comes to making Easy Kung Pao Chicken, the ingredients work together to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that authentic taste you crave. Let’s dive into the key players in this simple yet delicious dish.
- 10 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star of the show, this tender meat absorbs all the delicious sauces and flavors.
- 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce, divided: Adds that savory umami flavor that is essential in Asian cuisine.
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and give a nice glossy finish to the dish.
- 2 to 3 dried red chiles: Introduces a delicious heat that can be adjusted to your liking.
- 2 teaspoons canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying, allowing other flavors to shine.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: A staple flavor that enhances the overall dish with its aromatic properties.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and a splash of color to your meal.
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped: Provides crunch and a light texture that complements the other ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons fat-free chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a hint of sweetness and acidity, balancing the overall flavor profile.
- â…“ cup chopped unsalted roasted peanuts: For that crunchy finish and nutty flavor, elevating the dish!
Preparation Steps for Easy Kung Pao Chicken
Getting started on Easy Kung Pao Chicken is simple and enjoyable. The process brings together all the fresh ingredients in a way that creates mouthwatering aromas. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious dish ready in no time!
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, combine the bite-sized pieces of chicken with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well and allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the tenderness of the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, take the dried chiles and soak them in hot water for a few minutes. Once softened, chop them into smaller pieces. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to remove the seeds; however, I recommend keeping some for a bit of heat!
- Next, heat a wok or a large sauté pan over high heat. When the pan is hot, swirl in the canola oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers, which indicates that it’s ready for frying.
- Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan, spreading it out evenly across the surface. Sear the chicken on both sides until it’s lightly browned, which should take about 4 minutes. Look for a nice golden color, but remember—it’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this point.
- Once the chicken has that lovely color, add in the chopped chiles, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir-fry the mixture until fragrant, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining some crunch.
- Now, it’s time to bring all the flavors together. Pour in the remaining 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar. Give the mixture a good stir and bring it to a simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking through, and the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking your ingredients.
- Finally, once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the wok from the heat and sprinkle the top with the chopped roasted peanuts. This adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dish to perfection.
- Serve your Easy Kung Pao Chicken hot, either on its own or with your favorite rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating is Key: Allowing the chicken to marinate not only tenderizes it but also enhances the flavor.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the number of chiles depending on your spice preference. A couple of chiles will give a mild kick, while more will spice things up!
- Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and the perfect sear.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Using fresh vegetables adds vibrant flavor and texture to the dish. Always choose the freshest options you can find!
Expert Tips about Easy Kung Pao Chicken
Preparing Easy Kung Pao Chicken can be a fun experience, especially when you have a few expert tips up your sleeve. Here are some recommendations to make your cooking journey smoother and more enjoyable!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to a month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Pairing: This dish goes beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Meal Prep: Consider preparing a double batch for meal prep. It’s great for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment by adding other veggies like broccoli or snap peas for more nutrition and flavor.
Perfect Matches for Easy Kung Pao Chicken
When it comes to serving Easy Kung Pao Chicken, there are plenty of delightful combinations to enhance your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce and balances the meal.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: For an extra kick of flavors, serve alongside this colorful side.
- Spring Rolls: A crunchy appetizer to start your meal with a touch of freshness.
- Asian Slaw: A crisp salad that adds a refreshing crunch and complements the chicken.
- Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, lunch gatherings, or even festive celebrations!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and enjoy within a few days for the best taste.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Easy Kung Pao Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. With its ease of preparation and delicious results, you’ll find yourself making it time and again. I encourage you to give this dish a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Easy Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 teaspoon of the soy sauce and the cornstarch. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- In the meantime, soak the dried chiles in hot water for a few minutes and when softened, chop. You can discard the seeds if you want it a little less spicy (I recommend keeping some of them in for a little spice!).
- Heat a wok or large sauté pan over high heat. When hot, swirl in the canola oil and add the chicken. Spread the chicken out all over the surface of the pan.
- Sear on both sides until lightly browned, but not cooked all the way through, about 4 minutes.
- Add the chiles, garlic, bell pepper and zucchini. Stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of the soy sauce, the stock and vinegar. Bring to a simmer and turn the heat to medium-low.
- Cook for 2 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Top with roasted peanuts and serve.
Notes
- Tip 1: If you are preparing this recipe as gluten-free, just be sure to use brands of soy sauce and broth that are known to be GF.
- Tip 2: Switch out the zucchini with some snow peas, if you'd like.
