Authentic Sichuan Kung Pao Chicken

Authentic Sichuan Kung Pao Chicken

Classic DishKung Pao Chicken

Prep: 25 min • Cook: 15 min. Experience the true Sichuanese flavor with this authentic Kung Pao Chicken recipe. It features perfectly marinated chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a fiery balance of chili and Sichuan peppercorns, wok-tossed to perfection.

Preparation time
25 min
Cooking time
15 min
Total time
40 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Marinate Chicken

  1. 1In a bowl, combine chicken thigh pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare Sauce

  1. 1In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, black vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.

Stir-fry

  1. 1Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers, stir-frying until fragrant and the peppers darken slightly, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them.
  2. 2Remove the peppercorns and chili pieces from the wok, leaving the infused oil. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the wok.
  3. 3Add the marinated chicken to the wok in a single layer and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
  4. 4Add minced garlic, ginger, and chili bean paste to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  5. 5Return the cooked chicken to the wok. Give the sauce a quick whisk and pour it into the wok. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
  6. 6Add the roasted peanuts and stir to combine. Cook for another minute.

Nutrition Information

Calories
551 kcal
Protein
35 g
Fat
31 g
Carbs
32 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories551 kcal
Protein35 g
Fat31 g
Carbs32 g

Tips

  • Ensure chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Marinating helps tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  • Get your wok very hot before adding ingredients for that authentic smoky flavor. Don't overcrowd the wok when cooking chicken.
  • Serve immediately with steamed rice to best enjoy the crispy texture of the peanuts and the rich sauce.

By Chef Michael Ilin