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Kung Pao Chicken Spicy

Kung Pao Chicken Spicy

Classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and dried red chilies in a savory-sweet sauce with authentic numbing Sichuan peppercorns. A perfect balance of heat, texture, and flavor.

20
Prep (min)
15
Cook (min)
35
Total (min)
4
Servings
Health Score75/100

Ingredients

  • 500 g Chicken breast
  • 100 g Peanuts
  • 4 pcs Dried chilies
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 medium Bell pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 medium Zucchini
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 2 tablespoons Vinegar
  • 240 ml Chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 1 inch Ginger
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp white pepper, and 1 tbsp cornstarch.

    💡 Chef's note: Let protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Cutting too soon results in dry, tough meat.

  2. 2

    Heat wok over high heat until smoking. Add 2 tbsp peanut oil and swirl to coat.

    💡 Toast Sichuan peppercorns in dry pan until fragrant for authentic numbing heat.

  3. 3

    Add dried red chilies and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

    💡 High heat is essential - wok cooking happens in seconds.

  4. 4

    Add chicken pieces and stir-fry on high heat for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on edges.

    💡 Add peanuts at the end to maintain their crunch.

  5. 5

    Add garlic, ginger, and white parts of scallions. Toss for 30 seconds.

    💡 Balance theè¾£ (spicy) with a touch of sugar if needed.

  6. 6

    Pour in sauce mixture (soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil). Toss to coat evenly.

    💡 Serve immediately - this dish loses its textural appeal when sitting.

  7. 7

    Add roasted peanuts and green onion tops. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.

    💡 The peanuts should retain their crunch - overcooking makes them soggy.