Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, nutty aroma of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken sizzling in your kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken, a creamy peanut butter sauce, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that make every bite unforgettable.

I first discovered this dish during a weekend of experimenting with pantry staples. Little did I know that this quick, easy, and utterly delicious recipe would become a staple in our household.

Ready to transform dinner time? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful dish. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken isn’t just delicious – it’s a lifesaver on busy evenings when you need something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a steaming plate of tender chicken coated in a silky peanut sauce that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot. Perfect for weeknights when time is short but cravings are high.

Secondly, the ingredients are pantry-friendly and affordable. With staples like peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey, this dish is as easy on your budget as it is on your schedule.

This recipe is also highly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a family with picky eaters or spicing it up for a gourmet twist, you can adjust it to suit any palate.

Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether paired with steamed rice or fresh veggies, this dish always earns rave reviews.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its flavorful yet simple ingredients. Each one adds depth and balance to the dish, creating a harmony of sweet, salty, and savory flavors.

• Chicken: For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal. Their natural juiciness ensures tender bites, but you can substitute them with chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option.
• Peanut Butter: The star of the sauce! Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, velvety texture. Natural peanut butter works too, but you may need to adjust the sweetness.
• Soy Sauce: A dash of soy sauce adds that essential umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
• Honey: A touch of honey balances the salt and nuttiness with a subtle sweetness. You can swap it with brown sugar or maple syrup if needed.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger elevate the sauce, adding warmth and depth.
• Rice Vinegar: This ingredient provides a slight tanginess that brightens the dish. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.

You’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a large skillet, a whisk, and a cutting board to make this recipe seamlessly.

How To Make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Creating Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these easy steps to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps the sauce coat each piece perfectly. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Cook the chicken in batches, allowing it to develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them!

Next, whisk together the sauce ingredients: peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and a splash of water. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir until smooth. Let it simmer gently until it thickens.

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and infused with the peanut butter goodness.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality touch.

Storage Options

Leftovers of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken are a blessing in disguise. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

For refrigeration, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce from drying out.

If you want to freeze it, ensure the chicken has cooled completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pro tip: Store the chicken separately from rice or veggies to keep textures fresh and appealing.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this dish makes it a favorite for experimentation. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter if you’re accommodating allergies.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and crunch. Sauté them before adding the sauce.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly twist.

The possibilities are endless – have fun experimenting and discovering your favorite variation!

Enjoy creating this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe that blends comfort with bold flavors. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family – it’s too good to keep to yourself!

Print