Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With tender chicken coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce, this dish brings together the comforting flavors of Chinese cuisine with the nutty goodness of peanut butter. In just 25 minutes, you can have a delightful dinner on the table that feels like a gourmet treat.
A Personal Story Behind My Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed Chinese takeout on special occasions. One dish that always caught my attention was the peanut butter chicken. It was creamy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. As an adult, I decided to recreate this dish at home, and after several attempts, I developed a version that was not only easy to make but also closely resembled the beloved takeout flavor. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen and a favorite among friends and family.
What Makes This Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the rich, savory sauce that elevates the chicken. The combination of soy sauce, Hoisin sauce, and peanut butter creates a balance of sweet and savory that is hard to resist. Additionally, the use of cornstarch gives the chicken a delightful crunch while keeping it juicy on the inside. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
The Full Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.1 lb (500g) chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup Hoisin sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly covered. This step ensures a nice crispy texture when cooked.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, peanut butter, minced garlic, Hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and water until well combined. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s smooth.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned. This helps to lock in the flavors.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Continue to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once done, remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a little extra crunch, consider sprinkling crushed peanuts on top right before serving. If you’re looking for variations, try adding bell peppers or broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition. You can also adjust the amount of peanut butter and Hoisin sauce based on your taste preference for a sweeter or nuttier flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just ensure they’re cooked through.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken fresh for optimal texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 320
- Servings: 4
Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.1 lb chicken breast, chopped
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 0.25 cup creamy peanut butter
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 0.25 cup Hoisin sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch in a small bowl until evenly coated. This step ensures a nice crispy texture when cooked.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, peanut butter, minced garlic, Hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and water until well combined. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned. This helps to lock in the flavors.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Continue to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once done, remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!