Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a medium Chinese dish that brings authentic flavors and traditional cooking techniques to your kitchen. This recipe combines carefully selected ingredients with time-tested preparation methods to create a truly memorable dining experience. Whether you're an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe provides clear guidance and helpful tips to ensure success every time you prepare it.

This kung pao chicken recipe requires 20 minutes of preparation time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time investment approximately 35 minutes. The recipe yields 4 generous servings perfect for an intimate meal. While this recipe requires some intermediate cooking skills and attention to detail, the results are well worth the effort and will impress both family and guests.

The foundation of exceptional kung pao chicken begins with selecting quality ingredients. This recipe calls for 10 carefully chosen components, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. 2 lbs chicken breast, 1/2 cup peanuts, 1 tsp dried red chiles form the essential base of this dish, providing the primary flavors and structural foundation. Asian ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and aromatic spices contribute depth and complexity to every bite. When shopping for ingredients, look for the freshest produce and highest quality proteins to ensure the best results.

The cooking process for kung pao chicken follows 7 essential steps, each designed to build flavor and achieve the perfect texture. Attention to timing and temperature control ensures that each component cooks to perfection. The quick cooking time preserves the fresh flavors and vibrant colors of the ingredients. The process begins with marinate chicken, establishing the foundation for all subsequent steps. The middle stages involve 5 key techniques that transform raw ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful dish. The final steps bring everything together, allowing you to adjust seasoning and presentation for optimal results.

This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family meal with enough for everyone to enjoy. Consider doubling the recipe if you want leftovers for lunch. Each serving contains approximately 385 calories, 32g of protein, 22g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat, making it a satisfying, balanced meal that provides sustained energy. This recipe can be adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions.

For best results, gather all ingredients before you begin cooking to maintain momentum throughout the preparation. Pay attention to visual and aromatic cues mentioned in the instructions, as these indicators help ensure proper cooking. Serve over steamed rice or noodles to create a complete, satisfying meal.