Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the fusion of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. This quick and easy dish transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy peanut butter sauce clings to tender chicken bites, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

I first tried this recipe while experimenting with Asian-inspired flavors in my kitchen. With a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, I created a dish that quickly became a household favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to add a new go-to meal to your dinner rotation. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you’ll have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want something homemade and satisfying.

The flavor is next-level amazing. The peanut butter sauce blends creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness for a balanced, restaurant-quality flavor that everyone will adore.

This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. Pair it with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies, and you have a complete meal that fits any craving or dietary preference.

Finally, it’s a great option for meal prep. Make a batch, divide it into portions, and enjoy flavorful lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in making this dish truly special.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best. Thighs offer a juicier texture, but chicken breasts are leaner if that’s your preference. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Peanut Butter: Go for smooth peanut butter to create a creamy sauce. Natural peanut butter without added sugar works beautifully here, but regular varieties will also do the trick.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami punch to the sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger infuse the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the savory peanut butter and soy sauce.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity from rice vinegar brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the sauce.
• Sesame Oil: Enhances the nutty flavor profile and adds a layer of richness. A little goes a long way!

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet or wok for stir-frying and a small bowl to whisk the sauce ingredients together.

How to Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Making this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is as simple as it is rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Start by preparing your chicken. Cut it into small, even pieces, and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps the chicken brown nicely in the pan.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and let it get hot before adding the chicken. Spread the pieces out in a single layer, and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip the chicken and cook until no longer pink in the center, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil along with minced garlic and ginger. Stir frequently, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn these aromatics, as they can become bitter.

While the garlic and ginger cook, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a splash of water. Mix until smooth and well-blended.

Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat every piece in the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Options

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it may thicken in the fridge.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

This dish also reheats wonderfully for next-day lunches. Pack it in a microwave-safe container with a portion of rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Protein Swap: Try this with shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced pork for a new twist. Just adjust the cooking time to match the protein you choose.
• Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet for a vibrant, veggie-packed version.
• Spice It Up: Stir in a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Nut-Free Alternative: If peanut allergies are a concern, sunflower seed butter or almond butter makes a great substitute.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

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