Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further than this quick and easy stir-fried Chinese peanut chicken recipe! This dish perfectly balances savory, sweet, and nutty notes, creating a culinary experience that's both comforting and exciting. Forget complicated takeout menus and lengthy cooking times; this recipe utilizes readily available ingredients to deliver restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will tantalize your senses, promising a delicious meal the whole family will love.
Tender chicken pieces are expertly coated in a rich and creamy peanut sauce, enhanced with a touch of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. The stir-fry technique ensures the chicken remains juicy and the vegetables crisp-tender. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to make this incredible Stir-fried Chinese Peanut Chicken.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Cooking wine: 1 teaspoon
- Dry soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dark soy sauce: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: a pinch
- Ground pepper
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Carrot: 1
- Onion: 1
- Celery: 50 grams
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Peanuts
- Water: 7 centimeters
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prep
- Cut chicken thighs into chunks, remove skin, and season with cooking wine, dry soy sauce, dark soy sauce, salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
- Cut carrot, onion, and celery into chunks. Chop garlic.
Step 2. Stir-fry Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over high heat. Add chopped garlic and stir until lightly colored.
- Add marinated chicken to the pan, stir-frying for about 1 minute until lightly browned.
- Add onion and carrot, stir-fry briefly.
- Season with oyster sauce, light soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
Step 3. Add Liquid and Finish
- Add water, stir for 30 seconds.
- Add celery, peanuts, and mix for another 30 seconds.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with jasmine rice.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Marinating the chicken with cornstarch helps keep it tender and juicy.
- Stir-frying the chicken until lightly browned adds flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 45g
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs will stay more moist during cooking and offer a richer flavor.
2. What can I substitute for peanut butter?
Sunflower seed butter or tahini can work well, but the flavor will be slightly different. Adjust the amount of soy sauce to taste.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken and vegetables just before serving for optimal texture.
This Stir-fried Chinese Peanut Chicken recipe is a testament to how quickly and easily you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to become a new family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!