Best Kung Pao Chicken (Authentic Recipe)

This recipe was created for the home cook who wants to step out of their comfort zone to create a restaurant quality Kung Pao chicken dish. While most of the ingredients in this dish are easily found in major supermarkets, Sichuan peppercorns and dried Sichuan chiles may require a visit to a specialty market (or bought online). These are necessary for an authentic restaurant-quality dish.

So, what sets this recipe apart from a basic stir-fry? The combination of a few authentic Sichuan ingredients, combined with the technique of “velveting the chicken” are what makes this recipe stand out. The resulting flavor is not just hot and spicy. Instead, it is sweet, tangy, rich, and savory with a hint of spicy that leaves your tongue tingling.

The lemony flavor of Sichuan peppercorns is similar to lemongrass and also adds a tongue-numbing effect which we so often crave.

Kung Pao chicken has several regional variations. The staple ingredients of the original recipe consists of peanuts, chiles, and scallions (or green onions). You can add one cup of any chopped vegetable you prefer to make it your own. We like adding crunchy bell peppers and celery.

Tip: The key to the success of this recipe is preparing all your ingredients first, as this dish cooks up very fast.

Substitutions and variations

• Sichuan peppercorns – Unfortunately, there is no comparable substitute for the Sichuan peppercorns in this recipe. When this ingredient is omitted, you will still have a delicious and flavorful meal. However, if you want to see what a classic Kung Pao tastes like, they are a necessity. But the good news? They are easy to find on Amazon or your local Asian market.
• Dried Sichuan peppers – Swap the same amount with chili de arbol or add red pepper flakes for a touch of spicy heat.
• Proteins – Chicken, pork, or tofu will work well in this recipe. These are proteins that absorb marinades very well. Avoid beef and shrimp as the result will not be the same.
• Nuts – Peanuts are original to the dish but cashew nuts will also work very well.
• Veggies – Crunchy vegetables that are sturdy even when cooked like celery, bell peppers, bamboo, and water chestnuts are ideal for Kung Pao chicken.
• Oil – Try to use the oil with the highest smoke point you can find like vegetable oil or peanut oil. Add a touch of sesame oil to provide a nice flavor to your dish.

Recipe tips and FAQ

• This is a very hands-on recipe. Prepping the ingredients ahead of time will yield the best results.
• This recipe also calls for managing the heat as you cook. Gas stoves will cook a little differently than electric. Even the cooking pan you use will have an impact on how the heat is distributed. For the best results, rely on your senses rather than strictly adhering to the suggested cooking times. Pay close attention to visual cues and the aroma to determine when to flip, stir, or remove from heat.
• “Velveting the chicken” is a technique applicable to any protein when stir-frying. It involves incorporating cornstarch into the marinade before cooking, allowing the carbohydrates to lock in juices and shield the protein from high heat for improved heat distribution. While stir-frying without cornstarch is possible, adopting this velveting technique enhances the dish’s restaurant-level quality.
• When prepping the dried Sichuan chilies, be mindful of the heat. Just like fresh chilies, the heat resides inside the chiles. To mellow out the heat, simply snip the top off of the chili with scissors and pour out the seeds. If you like it extra-spicy, cut the peppers in half and use the seeds in the cooking process.

Is Kung Pao Chicken spicy?

No. In fact, classic Kung Pao chicken has several regional versions. But overall, Kung Pao chicken is described as having a savory, sour, sweet flavor, with just a hint of spice.

How do Chinese make their chicken so tender?

As stated in the recipe, “velveting the chicken” is a technique used to make chicken more tender in dishes such as this one. Using cornstarch in the marinade (before cooking) helps seal in the juices and shields the chicken from the high heat of the pan.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. Fully reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can you freeze this Kung Pao Chicken?

You can freeze this Kung Pao chicken. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring constantly. Or, reheat in the microwave or slow cooker. Thaw the frozen Kung Pao chicken and place in your slow cooker on low for 3 hours, or on high for 1 hour.

What is the difference between Kung Pao chicken and General Tso’s chicken?

These two dishes are very different in their preparation. General Tso’s chicken consists of deep-fried chicken pieces and is often coated in a sauce that is sweet-and-sour style.

What does authentic Kung Pao chicken taste like?

Authentic Kung Pao chicken is savory, slightly sour and a little bit sweet. The flavors of Sichuan peppercorns come through and leave a slightly numb feeling on the tongue. Crunchy peanuts bring the recipe together for an irresistible texture. It’s one of our favorite dishes!

The next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, try making this authentic Kung Pao recipe at home. While the extensive list of ingredients may seem intimidating, most of the work is done before the cooking process. This recipe will make you feel like professional chef. You’ll be glad you have the leftover ingredients on-hand so you can make this recipe again and again.