Unleash the flavor of panda express kung pao chicken at home: a culinary adventure

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Kung Pao Chicken, a classic Sichuan dish that has captivated taste buds worldwide. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll learn the secrets of crafting this beloved dish at home, using the irresistible Panda Express sauce.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Panda Express Orange Sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until smooth.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring constantly, until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the bell peppers, celery, and carrots to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Combine the Sauce and Chicken: Add the Panda Express sauce to the pan and bring to a boil. Return the chicken to the pan and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Add the Peanuts and Green Onions: Stir in the peanuts and green onions. Cook for an additional minute or two, until the peanuts are toasted and the green onions are wilted.

7. Serve: Serve the Kung Pao Chicken hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with additional green onions and peanuts, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or Sichuan peppercorns to the sauce.
• If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, you can substitute dry sherry or white wine.
• To make your own Panda Express Orange Sauce, follow this recipe: https://www.copykat.com/panda-express-orange-sauce-recipe/
• The Kung Pao Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information:

One serving (about 1 cup) of Kung Pao Chicken with Panda Express sauce contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

FAQs:

Q: Can I use other vegetables in this dish?
A: Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or bamboo shoots.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve. However, the sauce should be added just before serving.