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Kung Pao Chicken

Quick and Easy Kung Pao Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

This flavorful Kung Pao Chicken is protein-rich, customizable, and healthier than takeout, making it the perfect weeknight dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce Can substitute with tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine Substitute with dry sherry if unavailable
  • 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper Black pepper works as an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Arrowroot can be used as a substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Swap for brown sugar for extra depth
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce Hoisin sauce can serve as a vegetarian substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce Use additional light soy sauce if needed
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese Black Vinegar Balsamic vinegar works in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Opt for toasted sesame oil for the best flavor
  • 1/2 cup Low Sodium Chicken Stock or Water Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian options
For the Stir-Fry
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is highly recommended
  • 1 inch Ginger Prefer fresh for maximum potency
  • 3 pieces Dried Chili Peppers Adjust quantity based on your spiciness preference
  • 1 medium Zucchini Swap for bell peppers or snap peas if desired
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Feel free to use other bell pepper colors
  • 1/2 cup Roasted Peanuts or Cashews Almonds can be an alternative choice
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Can replace with chives or omit entirely

Equipment

  • wok
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken breast pieces with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, cornstarch, and granulated sugar. Allow this mixture to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese black vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and chicken stock until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the wok.
  4. In the same wok, reduce heat slightly and add garlic, ginger, and dried chili peppers. Sauté for about 30 seconds, then toss in zucchini and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Lower heat to medium and return the cooked chicken to the wok along with the prepared sauce. Stir gently and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside noodles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust the quantity of dried chili peppers to fit your spice tolerance. Use leftovers within 4 days; reheat gently.

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