Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Chinese dish that features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce. This high-protein meal is both flavorful and satisfying, making it perfect for a nutritious lunch.

Kung Pao Chicken
25 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Chinese
450 kcal

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast - 300 grams, diced
  • Peanuts - 50 grams, unsalted
  • Bell pepper (red) - 1 medium, diced
  • Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
  • Green onion - 3 stalks, chopped
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Ginger - 1 teaspoon, minced
  • Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
  • Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
  • Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
  • Red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Cooked rice - 200 grams (for serving)

Steps

  1. In a medium bowl, combine diced chicken with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.
  6. Finally, add the peanuts and chopped green onion, stir to combine, and cook for an additional minute.
  7. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Carbs: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
  • Contains antioxidants from vegetables that promote overall health.

Tags

ChineseHigh ProteinLunch