Experience a delightful twist on classic Chinese flavors with this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken—a savory, nutty, and slightly sweet dish that’s packed with rich peanut flavor and tender chicken pieces. The creamy peanut sauce perfectly coats every bite, creating a harmonious balance between savory and slightly tangy notes. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a delicious homemade Asian-inspired meal.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Rich Peanut Flavor: Creamy peanut butter sauce adds depth and a unique twist to traditional Chinese chicken.
Tender, Juicy Chicken: Well-seasoned and cooked to perfection for maximum flavor.
Quick and Simple: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Versatile Serving Options: Great over steamed rice, noodles, or with stir-fried veggies.
Crowd-Pleaser: Bold flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Creating this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a breeze, especially with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the peanut sauce.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! It adds richness and a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Soy sauce: This brings a savory umami kick, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Rice vinegar: This adds a tangy note, brightening up the dish.
Sesame oil: A drizzle of this fragrant oil enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a robust aroma and depth to the sauce.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these can spice things up!
Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Bell peppers: Any color will do! They add crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
Broccoli florets: These not only add nutrition but also a lovely texture contrast.
Chopped green onions: A fresh garnish that adds a burst of flavor and color.
Cooked rice or noodles: The perfect base to soak up that delicious peanut sauce.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Enjoy gathering these ingredients; they’re the building blocks of a fantastic meal!
How to Make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Cooking this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s well combined.
Set it aside for now; it’ll be ready to work its magic soon!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
This step is crucial for achieving that juicy texture!
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Now it’s time to bring in the color!
Add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets to the skillet.
Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
You want them to retain some crunch for that perfect bite!
Step 4: Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared peanut butter sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and everything is well combined.
The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 5: Serve
Serve the peanut butter chicken over a bed of cooked rice or noodles.
Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions for that fresh touch.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Don’t rush the chicken cooking step; let it brown nicely for the best flavor.
Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying. A non-stick pan works too!
Medium bowl: For mixing the peanut sauce. Any mixing bowl will do.
Whisk: To blend the sauce smoothly. A fork can work in a pinch.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping veggies and chicken.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Nut-Free Version: Use sunbutter or tahini instead of peanut butter for those with nut allergies.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of sriracha or more red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra heat boost.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions
Rice or Noodles: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or your favorite noodles to soak up the sauce.
Fresh Salad: Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a cold beer or iced green tea for a perfect balance.
Presentation: Garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color.
FAQs about Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Can I make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peanut sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the chicken and combine everything. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken can be gluten-free! Just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. It’s a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions.
What can I serve with Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or noodles. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal. The options are endless!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Definitely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a bit more attention to avoid drying out. Just make sure to cook them until they’re no longer pink inside.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For those who love heat, feel free to add more or even a splash of sriracha to the sauce!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy.
The rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and vibrant veggies brings a sense of comfort that warms the soul.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish has a way of making any day feel special.
Plus, the ease of preparation means you can savor the experience without the stress.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this delightful recipe transform your dinner table into a celebration of flavors!
A delicious and easy-to-make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe that combines tender chicken with a creamy peanut sauce and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
1 cup broccoli florets
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour the peanut butter sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
Serve the peanut butter chicken over cooked rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
