Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the fusion of creamy, nutty peanut butter with the savory, umami flavors of Chinese cuisine. This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe strikes the perfect balance, delivering a rich and tangy sauce that clings beautifully to tender chicken pieces.

this Recipe

The first time I made this dish, it was a revelation – a quick, comforting dinner that felt like takeout, but better. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, this recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and see why this dish deserves a spot on your weekly menu.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to embrace your new favorite dinner recipe. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, all wrapped up in a creamy, velvety sauce.

First off, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare. With a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Serve it over fluffy white rice, noodles, or even a bed of steamed vegetables – the possibilities are endless. You can also customize the spice level to suit your taste, making it kid-friendly or as bold as you’d like.

Budget-conscious cooks will appreciate that this meal uses affordable ingredients. Chicken thighs or breasts, peanut butter, soy sauce, and a few aromatics come together to create a restaurant-quality dish without the hefty price tag.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish strikes a chord with everyone. The nutty, savory flavors are universally loved, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its blend of simple ingredients that create a depth of flavor. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Chicken is the star of the show. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy and tender texture, but chicken breasts work wonderfully if that’s your preference. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.

Peanut butter is the heart of the sauce. Opt for a creamy, natural variety without added sugar or oils to ensure the flavors remain balanced. The nuttiness adds a rich, indulgent element to the dish.

Soy sauce provides the salty, umami base that complements the sweetness of the peanut butter. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.

Garlic and ginger are the aromatic backbone of the recipe. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger bring warmth and depth, elevating the sauce to the next level.

Rice vinegar or lime juice adds the necessary tang to balance the creamy and salty flavors. This touch of acidity brightens the dish and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.

Special equipment isn’t necessary, but a large skillet or wok makes the cooking process easier. Having a small whisk on hand will help ensure the sauce is smooth and well-combined.

How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Creating this delectable dish is a straightforward process, perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a meal to remember.

Start by preparing the chicken. Cut it into evenly sized pieces, pat it dry with a paper towel, and season lightly with salt and pepper. This step ensures the chicken sears beautifully and locks in its juices.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of neutral oil, like canola or vegetable oil, and let it heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant – this usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute. Be careful not to let them burn.

Next, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a splash of water or chicken broth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the garlic and ginger, stirring until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.

Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until every piece is coated. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Serve immediately over your favorite base – rice, noodles, or vegetables – and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), this dish stores beautifully. Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, the dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to stir midway to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
• Add vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers can be sautéed alongside the chicken or steamed and served on the side.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of chili flakes, sriracha, or a spoonful of chili-garlic paste to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Nut-free version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you have nut allergies in your household.
• Switch the protein: Shrimp or thinly sliced beef are excellent alternatives if you’re looking to change things up.

This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is endlessly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Who knows? You might stumble upon a variation that becomes your family’s next favorite dish!

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