Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet and savory aroma of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken filling your kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken, a creamy peanut butter sauce, and the perfect balance of spices for a truly unforgettable meal.

I first discovered this recipe when experimenting with Asian-inspired flavors and a craving for peanut butter. What started as a quick weeknight dinner has now become a household favorite, loved by everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it yourself!

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with every bite of this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, nutty, and savory notes that will leave you craving more.

First, this recipe is a time-saver. You can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spare.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples like peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without breaking the bank.

The versatility of this dish is another reason to love it. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for different dietary preferences by swapping ingredients like chicken for tofu or shrimp.

Finally, the balance of flavors is what truly sets this recipe apart. The creamy peanut butter is perfectly offset by a hint of spice, a touch of sweetness, and the umami depth of soy sauce. It's a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of taste and texture.

The chicken is the star of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, as they cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts keep the dish leaner.

Peanut butter is the heart of the creamy sauce. Use smooth peanut butter for a velvety texture, but feel free to choose a natural or unsweetened variety if you prefer to control the sweetness.

Soy sauce provides the savory, umami base for the sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. It’s also a great opportunity to use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the peanut butter. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup or brown sugar can work as substitutes.

Garlic and ginger bring a bold and aromatic depth to the dish. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are ideal, but powdered versions can be used in a pinch.

You’ll also need sriracha or chili paste for a touch of heat, though you can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Lastly, don’t forget a dash of sesame oil and a sprinkling of chopped peanuts or green onions for garnish. They add texture and a final layer of flavor to the dish.

No special equipment is required, just a skillet or wok and a trusty spatula for stirring up the sauce.

How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Making Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a breeze, and the results are absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preparing the chicken. Cut it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re evenly sized for uniform cooking. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to let them burn.

Next, whisk together the sauce ingredients: peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, and a splash of water to thin it out. Pour the mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until it’s evenly coated and warmed through. Allow the sauce to bubble gently for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Serve your Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken hot, garnished with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it ideal for even the busiest of days.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully!

Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir gently until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is how customizable it can be. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even thinly sliced beef for a different protein.
• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative to peanut butter if you’re accommodating allergies.
• Add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to the dish for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of sriracha or chili paste in the sauce.
• For a tangier flavor, stir in a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end of cooking.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe! It’s forgiving and adaptable, so you can create a version that perfectly suits your taste.

Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or serving it up for friends, Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is sure to impress. Its irresistible combination of flavors and quick prep time make it a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!

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