Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken filling your kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken with a luscious, creamy peanut butter sauce infused with the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. It’s a fusion of comfort food and takeout-inspired indulgence.

this Recipe

I first experimented with this recipe during a weeknight craving for something rich and satisfying. With a few pantry staples and some quick cooking techniques, it became an instant hit in my household. Let me show you why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to add a new favorite to your repertoire. This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.

First, it's unbelievably quick and simple. From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for when you're short on time but still want something hearty and delicious.

Second, the flavor profile is out of this world. The creamy peanut butter blends seamlessly with soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, creating a sauce that’s both indulgent and irresistible.

Third, it's budget-friendly. You’ll use ingredients you likely already have on hand, making this a cost-effective way to elevate dinner without breaking the bank.

Lastly, it's versatile. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal that satisfies everyone. Whether you're feeding a picky eater or a foodie, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines because of its simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the dish's signature flavor.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star here, offering rich flavor and juicy texture. You can use chicken breast if preferred, but thighs are more forgiving and stay tender.

Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter creates the creamy foundation of the sauce. Use a natural variety for a less sweet, more authentic flavor, or go with traditional for a classic take.

Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami, balancing the sweetness of the peanut butter. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

Garlic and Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and ginger are essential for a fragrant, slightly spicy base. They elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities.

Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements. Adjust the amount to suit your personal taste.

You’ll also need basic kitchen equipment like a large skillet or wok, a whisk for the sauce, and a cutting board for prepping the chicken.

How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Making this dish is a breeze. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal on the table.

Start by prepping your chicken. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

While the aromatics cook, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and a splash of water or chicken broth in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir constantly until it forms a smooth, creamy sauce.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions or crushed peanuts for an extra crunch.

Storage Options

This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

When reheating, be sure to stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. It’s just as satisfying the second time around, making it a great option for batch cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Pan-fry the tofu until crispy before tossing it in the sauce.
• Spice it up: Add a drizzle of sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or fresh chili slices for a bit of heat.
• Swap the peanut butter: For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter or tahini. Both provide a creamy base with unique flavors.
• Add veggies: Stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas pair beautifully with the rich sauce. Cook them in the same pan after the chicken for convenience.
• Change up the base: Instead of rice or noodles, serve the chicken over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even zoodles for a lighter twist.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This dish is incredibly forgiving, making it a wonderful canvas for culinary experimentation.

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