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Kung Pao Chicken (Gong Bao Ji Ding)

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces, crunchy peanuts, and dried chili peppers tossed in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. Known for its bold flavors and balance of heat, nuttiness, and umami, this dish is a staple in Chinese restaurants worldwide. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant colors, Kung Pao Chicken is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner served over steamed rice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast diced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 6 dried red chili peppers
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1- inch piece ginger minced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cornstarch

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, marinate chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together sauce ingredients and set aside.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add dried chili peppers and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  5. Stir in garlic, ginger, and bell peppers. Cook another 2–3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
  6. Pour in the sauce mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
  7. Add peanuts and toss well. Remove from heat.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 34gFat: 23g

Notes

Adjust the number of chili peppers for desired spice level.
Cashews can be used instead of peanuts for a twist.
This dish cooks quickly—have all ingredients prepped before starting.

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