Authentic Kung Pao Chicken Recipe - Spicy Sichuan Classic with Peanuts

Authentic Kung Pao Chicken: A Timeless Sichuan Delight

Introduction
Kung Pao Chicken, a beloved staple of Sichuan cuisine, has captivated global palates with its bold flavors and textural contrasts. Named after Qing Dynasty official Ding Baozhen (honorarily titled "Gong Bao"), this dish masterfully balances sweetness, acidity, and heat. While its origins are debated (some claim it evolved from Shandong’s Jiangbao Chicken or Guizhou’s Hulazi Chicken), its Sichuan iteration—featuring Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies—remains the most celebrated.

• Protein: 500g chicken breast, cut into 1.5cm cubes
• Aromatics: 3 dried red chilies (cut into segments), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1-inch ginger (julienned), 4 scallions (cut into 2cm sections)
• Spices: 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• Sauce Mix: 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, 3 tbsp water
• Garnish: 50g roasted peanuts, 1 tsp sesame oil

1. Marinate the Chicken
   • Toss chicken cubes with 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp vegetable oil. Let rest for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   • Whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
3. Stir-Fry
   • Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
   • Add chicken and stir-fry until lightly browned (2-3 minutes).
   • Toss in garlic, ginger, and scallions. Pour in the sauce and stir vigorously until thickened (1-2 minutes).
   • Fold in peanuts and sesame oil. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

• Textural Harmony: Crispy peanuts contrast with tender chicken, while the sauce’s glossy consistency clings perfectly to every ingredient.
• Flavor Balance: The Sichuan peppercorns deliver a signature mala (numbing-spicy) kick, offset by the sauce’s sweet-tangy profile.
• Quick & Versatile: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish adapts to dietary preferences (substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version).

• Global Twist: In Western adaptations, honey or brown sugar often replaces traditional Chinese rock sugar for sweetness.
• Healthier Options: Use air-fried peanuts or reduce oil for a lighter take.

• Peanut Perfection: Roast raw peanuts in a dry pan for 5 minutes to enhance crunch.
• Spice Control: Adjust chili quantity based on heat tolerance (remove seeds for milder flavor).