Why Make This Recipe
Kung Pao Chicken is a popular dish known for its bold flavors and crunchy texture. However, traditional recipes often include lots of oil and sugar, making them less healthy. This Healthier Kung Pao Chicken recipe keeps the great taste but lowers the calories and fat. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that still satisfies cravings.
How to Make Healthier Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup peanuts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
- Add red and green bell peppers, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in peanuts and green onions. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Drizzle with sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked rice.
How to Serve Healthier Kung Pao Chicken
Serve your Healthier Kung Pao Chicken hot over a bed of cooked rice. You can also add a sprinkle of extra green onions or a few sesame seeds on top for a nice presentation. Pair it with steamed veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Healthier Kung Pao Chicken
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. If you want to freeze this dish, make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Healthier Kung Pao Chicken
- Make sure to marinate the chicken well; this adds to the flavor.
- Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and nutrition.
- You can adjust the amount of peanuts according to your preference for crunch.
- If you want it spicier, add some crushed red pepper or sriracha sauce.
Variation
You can switch out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Also, feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrients.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can replace the chicken with tofu and use the same marinade for flavor.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level?
A: You can add more or less ginger and garlic, and include spicy elements like crushed red pepper or hot sauce, based on your taste preference.
Healthier Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
- Add red and green bell peppers, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in peanuts and green onions. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Drizzle with sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked rice.