The aroma of Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around. With its rich, nutty sauce and tender chicken, this dish promises a delightful culinary experience that satisfies both the stomach and soul. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Spring Rolls recipe.
I recall the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; my cousin declared it “better than takeout!” It’s perfect for those weeknights when you crave something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is an effortless meal that even beginners can master
- The bold flavors create a taste explosion with every bite
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper on any dinner table
- Versatile enough for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish will impress your guests
I once wowed my friends with this dish, and they still rave about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best here; it blends smoothly into the sauce Creamy Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry Soup.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Honey: Adds sweetness to balance out the savory flavors in the sauce
- Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick that complements the peanut butter nicely
- Green Onions: Sliced thinly for garnish; they add a pop of color and freshness
- Vegetable Oil: For cooking the chicken; choose an oil with a high smoke point
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Kimchi Fried Rice recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your chicken into bite-sized cubes and mince the garlic and ginger. Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet This will make cooking smoother.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Flavor Town (aka The Sauce): In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ginger until smooth. Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe Pour this heavenly concoction over the cooked chicken.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken.
Add Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, or straight off the pan if you’re feeling adventurous!
Enjoying Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is as simple as putting on your favorite Netflix show and indulging in some culinary magic!
You Must Know
- This Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken combines rich flavors and quick prep, making it perfect for busy nights
- It’s a delightful twist on traditional recipes, with the creamy peanut butter elevating the dish to new heights
- The aroma will have your family gathered in the kitchen in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in peanut butter sauce while you prepare your veggies. Sear the chicken first, then stir-fry everything together for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein. Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure tender chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan while searing
- For extra flavor, add a dash of soy sauce and garlic to the marinade
- When reheating, always cover to prevent drying out
Cooking this Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone devoured it within minutes, leaving only empty plates behind!
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture and an extra nutty flavor.
What should I serve with Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken?
Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add chili paste or red pepper flakes during cooking to kick up the heat level!

Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
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- Author: Jessica Harper
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this Easy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. Tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a creamy, rich peanut butter sauce, making it a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can create a culinary masterpiece that rivals takeout, leaving your family craving more.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cubed
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cube the chicken and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg