Kung Pao Chicken is a classic dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures to your plate. With its spicy kick, crunchy peanuts, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that never fails to impress. If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, let’s explore some irresistible Kung Pao Chicken recipes that will leave you craving more!
Classic Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken, the Authentic Way (宫保鸡丁) from Red House Spice
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 16 min Total Time: 16 min.
Real-Deal Kung Pao Chicken Recipe from Serious Eats
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 1 h 5 min Total Time: 1 h 5 min.
Ken Hom's Classic Kung Pao Chicken from NYT Cooking – The New York Times
Rating: 4. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.
This recipe is the quintessential version of Kung Pao Chicken that many of us know and love. The tender chicken is marinated and stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers, crunchy peanuts, and a delightful mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and a hint of Sichuan peppercorns. What makes it special is that it perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, creating a taste explosion in every bite.
Kung Pao Chicken with Cashews
Kung Pao Chicken with Cashew Recipe | Woolworths from Woolworths
Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
If you love the nutty flavor of cashews, this variation is a must-try! Instead of peanuts, this dish uses roasted cashews, giving it a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. The stir-frying technique brings out the nutty essence, and the addition of a touch of honey adds a sweet surprise that will keep you coming back for more.
Spicy Kung Pao Chicken with Chili Oil
For those who enjoy a fiery meal, this spicy version is the way to go! The chicken is marinated and cooked with a generous drizzle of chili oil, infusing each bite with a bold heat that will tantalize your taste buds. What sets this dish apart is the use of dried red chilies, which not only provide heat but also a beautiful pop of color to your plate!
Kung Pao Chicken with Vegetables
Kung Pao Chicken from Kristine's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Skinless chicken breast, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil Total Time: 40 min.
Takeout-Style Kung Pao Chicken (Diced Chicken With Peppers and Peanuts) Recipe from Serious Eats
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Stir fry, skinless chicken thighs, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, green bell pepper Total Time: 50 min.
Kung Pao Chicken from Once Upon a Chef
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Hoisin sauce, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, chicken tenderloins, sesame oil Total Time: 30 min.
This recipe takes Kung Pao Chicken to a whole new level by adding an array of colorful vegetables. Alongside the chicken, you’ll find crunchy carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers, making it a vibrant dish full of nutrients. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a family favorite that everyone will love!
Sweet and Sour Kung Pao Chicken
If you enjoy a sweet twist on this classic dish, then this sweet and sour version is perfect for you! The chicken is coated in a tangy sauce made with pineapple juice, vinegar, and a touch of brown sugar, creating a delightful contrast with the spicy elements. This recipe is a hit at parties and gatherings, as it appeals to both spicy food lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
Kung Pao Chicken with Quinoa
Here’s a healthier spin on the traditional dish! This Kung Pao Chicken includes fluffy quinoa instead of rice, making it a protein-packed meal that’s also gluten-free. The dish is loaded with colorful veggies and has the same bold, savory sauce that Kung Pao lovers crave, making it both nutritious and delicious!
Kung Pao Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Looking for a fun and interactive meal? These Kung Pao Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fantastic option! The seasoned chicken is served in crisp lettuce leaves, making it a light and refreshing dish. The crunch of the lettuce combined with the flavorful chicken and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts creates a delightful bite that’s perfect for entertaining!
Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken
Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken (+ Instant Pot) MEAL PREP + VIDEO from Life Made Sweeter
Rating: 4.2. Ingredients: 3 h 15 min Total Time: 3 h 15 min.
Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken Recipe from Platings + Pairings
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 4 h 15 min Total Time: 4 h 15 min.
Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken Recipe from Six Sisters' Stuff
Ingredients: 6 h 10 min Total Time: 6 h 10 min.
For those busy weeknights, this slow cooker version is a lifesaver! Just toss the marinated chicken, veggies, and sauce into your slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you go about your day. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that’s ready to impress your family with minimal effort!
Kung Pao Chicken Skewers
These Kung Pao Chicken Skewers are perfect for grilling season! Marinated chicken pieces are skewered and grilled to perfection, then brushed with a spicy Kung Pao sauce. This recipe is not only fun to eat, but it also adds a smoky flavor that takes the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Vegan Kung Pao Chicken
Who says you can’t enjoy Kung Pao Chicken if you’re vegan? This plant-based version uses tofu instead of chicken and is packed with the same bold flavors. The tofu absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, and when stir-fried with crunchy veggies and peanuts, it makes for a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy!