Are you looking for a flavor combination that will ignite your taste buds? Look no further! Chinese peanut butter chicken is a match made in heaven. The creamy richness of peanut butter pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of Szechuan pepper and the savory flavor of chicken. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine these flavors in unique and delicious ways.
From stir-fries to noodle dishes, skewers to dumplings, there’s something for everyone. We’ll start with a classic: the Szechuan Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry. This simple yet flavorful dish is a great introduction to the world of Chinese peanut butter chicken. With its combination of crispy vegetables, savory sauce, and succulent chicken, it’s a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Szechuan Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this savory peanut butter chicken stir-fry, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. This recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the spicy kick of Szechuan peppercorns and the tender bite of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and Szechuan peppercorns.
2. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp of vegetable oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
6. Add bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and pour in peanut butter mixture. Stir-fry until sauce has thickened.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Peanut Butter Chicken with Honey Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory dish that combines the flavors of peanut butter, honey, and crispy chicken. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the peanut butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles Recipe: A creamy and spicy twist on traditional noodle dishes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 8 oz noodles of your choice (e.g., soba, udon, or rice noodles)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the spicy peanut sauce.
6. Serve the chicken mixture over noodles and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kung Pao Peanut Butter Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Kung Pao chicken with the creamy richness of peanut butter, creating a unique and addictive dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from wok. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, garlic, scallions, peanuts, and crushed red chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Return chicken to wok. Toss with peanut butter mixture until well coated. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken Wings
This sweet and savory recipe combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the tender juiciness of chicken wings, resulting in a mouthwatering snack that’s perfect for game day or any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the sticky mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with olive oil. Arrange the wings on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the wings are cooked through and caramelized, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Satisfy your cravings with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of peanut butter with the juiciness of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced cucumber, carrots, and avocado for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken breast in the mixture and coat evenly.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips.
6. Assemble wraps by placing chicken on a bed of mixed greens. Add your choice of veggies if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers
Elevate your skewer game with these flavorful and sticky Chinese-inspired chicken bites, smothered in a creamy peanut butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional peanut butter sauce for dipping, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Fried Rice
Get ready to elevate your fried rice game with this unique and flavorful twist! This recipe combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the savory goodness of chicken, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir until smooth.
3. Push chicken mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs; scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix eggs with chicken mixture.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Peanut Butter Chicken with Bok Choy
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the pungency of garlic and the crunch of bok choy, all wrapped up in a flavorful chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed greens (bok choy)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Add bok choy leaves around the chicken and drizzle with cooking oil or non-stick pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the richness of peanut butter with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a crunchy broccoli package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and indulgent!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Pour the mixture over the chicken and stir to coat.
5. Return the chicken to the pan with the broccoli and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with this unique peanut butter chicken recipe. A flavorful twist on traditional Asian-inspired dishes, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Lo Mein
A creamy and savory twist on traditional lo mein, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the comfort of chicken and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir until smooth.
5. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Dumplings
Savor the fusion of rich peanut butter sauce with tender chicken dumplings in this Asian-inspired dish. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized treats will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling wrappers (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Shape each portion into a dumpling.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook dumplings until golden brown on bottom (about 5 minutes).
4. Add peanut butter, water, and sesame oil to the wok. Stir until smooth.
5. Return dumplings to the wok and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Spring Rolls
These crispy spring rolls are filled with a savory mixture of chicken, peanut butter, and vegetables, making them a delicious and unique snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Add some chopped scallions and shredded carrots on top of the chicken mixture.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken with Sesame Seeds
This creamy and nutty dish is a twist on traditional chicken recipes, featuring a rich peanut butter sauce and crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and brush with peanut butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the chicken and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Curry
This creamy and aromatic curry combines the richness of peanut butter with the warmth of Chinese spices, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal. This easy-to-make recipe is a twist on traditional Indian-style curries, adding a unique touch to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in peanut butter, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken with Cashews
A rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of peanut butter, chicken, and cashews. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup cashew halves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken breasts to the peanut butter mixture and coat evenly.
4. Place cashew halves on top of each chicken breast.
5. Fry the chicken in cooking oil or butter until golden brown, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A creamy and savory stir-fry that combines the richness of peanut butter with the tenderness of chicken, all wrapped up in a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or vegetable oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 1-2 tbsp of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add peanut butter, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Add bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy Chinese peanut butter chicken delights! From classic stir-fries to innovative twists, this collection has something for every palate. Discover flavors like Szechuan Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry, Crispy Peanut Butter Chicken with Honey Glaze, and Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken Wings. For noodle lovers, there’s Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles and Peanut Butter Chicken Lo Mein. And don’t miss the sweet and spicy fusion of Sweet and Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure with these mouthwatering recipes!
