Chef’s Secret Revealed: The Ultimate Guide to Making Kung Pao Chicken with Panda Express Sauce

If you’re craving the irresistible flavors of Panda Express‘s Kung Pao Chicken, you don’t have to settle for takeout anymore. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the secrets to making this iconic dish right in your own kitchen, complete with the signature Panda Express sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch in a bowl. This will help create a crispy coating.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and peanuts and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes more.

4. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until smooth.

5. Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and cook until thickened and bubbly, about 2 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve

Stir in the scallions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

• For extra crispy chicken, double the amount of cornstarch used for coating.
• If you don’t have peanuts, you can substitute with cashews or almonds.
• Add a splash of chili oil or Sriracha for a spicier version.
• Serve with steamed broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy Kung Pao Chicken: Add additional crushed red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Kung Pao Chicken: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh.
• Sesame Kung Pao Chicken: Top with extra sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Recommendations: The Perfect Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken, Made at Home

With this step-by-step guide, you can now enjoy the authentic flavors of Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will empower you to create a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of chicken is best for Kung Pao Chicken?
A: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the ideal choice for this dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in separate airtight containers and reheat before serving.

Q: What can I serve with Kung Pao Chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side of egg rolls are all great options.