Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the fusion of rich, nutty peanut butter and savory Chinese flavors in this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is both comfort food and an exotic twist on weeknight dinner.

this Recipe

I discovered this gem during a cooking experiment, trying to combine my love for peanut butter with the bold flavors of soy sauce and ginger. The result? A crowd-pleaser that’s become a staple in our house. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the umami depth of traditional Chinese sauces for a flavor profile that’s absolutely unforgettable.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even steamed veggies, making it an adaptable choice for whatever you have on hand. Plus, you can adjust the heat level to suit your family’s taste buds, from mild and creamy to spicy and bold.

Lastly, it’s a hit with everyone. Whether you’re cooking for kids who love peanut butter or adults craving something unique, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its balance of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They’re juicy and flavorful, but you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be sure to cut the meat into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.

Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Creamy peanut butter works best, as it creates a smooth and luscious sauce. Natural peanut butter can be used, but you may need to adjust the sweetness with a touch of sugar.

Soy Sauce: Adds that essential salty, umami kick. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, as the peanut butter and other ingredients pack plenty of flavor.

Ginger and Garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic bring a fragrant, zesty element that cuts through the richness of the sauce. These aromatics are non-negotiable for an authentic Chinese-inspired taste.

Honey or Brown Sugar: A hint of sweetness balances the savory and nutty flavors. Honey lends a floral note, while brown sugar deepens the caramel-like undertones.

Chili Sauce: Optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a little heat. Sriracha or chili garlic paste work beautifully to add a spicy kick.

How to Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

This recipe comes together quickly, so be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Begin by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan heats, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, pat them dry with a paper towel, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, along with the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until fragrant.

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and a splash of water or chicken broth to thin the sauce. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add chili sauce here if you’re going for a spicier version.

Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serve this delicious chicken over steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables. The rich and creamy sauce ensures every bite is pure comfort.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken stores beautifully for quick and easy meals later in the week.

Refrigerate any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

If you’re planning to freeze it, allow the dish to cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, so feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Press and cube the tofu before pan-frying it to golden perfection.
• Nut-Free: If you have a peanut allergy, try using sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet for a colorful and nutrient-packed twist.
• Spicy Lovers: Double the chili sauce or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Coconut Milk Addition: For a creamier, slightly tropical version, stir in a splash of coconut milk when making the sauce.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, so have fun experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.

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