Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a rich, savory dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy, nutty peanut butter sauce, infused with classic Asian flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a unique, delicious twist on traditional stir-fry dishes. It’s packed with flavor, made with simple pantry ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. The creamy, slightly sweet and savory sauce makes it a favorite for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Peanut butter (creamy)
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Honey or brown sugar
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh ginger (optional)
• Chicken broth or water
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Sesame oil
• Vegetable oil
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chicken broth until smooth.
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little water) to thicken the sauce if desired.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
9. Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if using.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, cooking requires about 15-20 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add sriracha or extra crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top for extra texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Sweeter Sauce: Add a little extra honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, but creamy peanut butter gives the sauce a smoother, more traditional texture.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts work great too for a leaner option.

Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, almond butter can be used for a slightly different flavor.

Is this dish very sweet?

The sauce has a mild sweetness from honey, but it’s balanced by the soy sauce and vinegar.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

What can I serve with Peanut Butter Chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I freeze Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain texture.

How do I make the sauce thinner?

Add a little extra chicken broth or water if the sauce is too thick.

How spicy is this dish?

Without the crushed red pepper flakes, it’s very mild; spice it up if you like more heat.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

Conclusion

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, with a comforting richness that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. Its versatile flavors and simple ingredients make it a weeknight dinner favorite that you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.

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