Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of savory and sweet flavors in Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. With its creamy peanut butter sauce, tender chicken, and a hint of spice, this dish is a flavor-packed delight that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a creative experiment in the kitchen. My pantry had a jar of peanut butter and some chicken thighs, and I decided to put them together in a bold, new way. What started as an improvised meal quickly became a family favorite that’s now requested on repeat. Let’s dive in and see why this dish is such a hit!

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to add a new staple to your weeknight dinner rotation. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile and simple to prepare.

First, the flavors are simply unforgettable. The creamy peanut butter blends seamlessly with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to create a luscious sauce that clings to every piece of chicken. It's a taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

It’s also quick to make! In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but cravings are high.

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly customizable. Whether you prefer it spicy, extra creamy, or loaded with veggies, it’s easy to adjust to your taste and make it uniquely yours.

And let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. With a handful of pantry staples like soy sauce, peanut butter, and rice, you can whip up a meal that tastes gourmet without breaking the bank.

So, grab your apron and let’s explore what makes this dish a must-try for any home cook!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to a perfectly balanced dish that's sure to impress.

The chicken is the star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal choice for this recipe. They stay tender and juicy throughout cooking, but chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner option.

Peanut butter is the heart of the sauce. Use creamy peanut butter for the best consistency, but if you love a bit of texture, crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful twist.

Soy sauce brings the umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake, or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.

For that signature zing, fresh ginger and garlic are essential. They add a depth of flavor that makes the sauce truly shine.

To finish, honey or brown sugar balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness, and a splash of rice vinegar adds just the right amount of tang.

You’ll also need a large skillet or wok for cooking, and having a whisk handy will help you create the smoothest sauce.

How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Creating Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof dish that’ll earn rave reviews.

Start by prepping your chicken. Cut the thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for 3-4 minutes without stirring to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté minced garlic and grated ginger. The aroma will be absolutely intoxicating as these aromatics release their flavors.

While the garlic and ginger cook, whisk together the sauce. Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and a dash of water in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Pour the sauce into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two. Add the chicken back in and toss to coat each piece in the luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve your Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Storage Options

Leftovers of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken are a treat you’ll be happy to have. Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

When reheating, avoid using high heat, as it may cause the peanut butter sauce to separate. Stir gently to bring it back to its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken makes it a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
• Boost the veggies by tossing in stir-fried bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. These add crunch and color to the dish.
• Swap the protein for tofu, shrimp, or even beef strips. Each brings its own unique twist to the recipe.
• Go low-carb by serving the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.
• Experiment with nut butters like almond or cashew butter for a slightly different flavor profile.

No matter how you make it, Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is bound to become a go-to favorite. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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