Top 5 Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken : Irresistibly & Creamy

When East meets West in the kitchen, magical things happen — like this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. Combining tender stir-fried chicken with a rich, creamy, slightly spicy peanut butter sauce, this dish brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in a way that’s completely crave-worthy.

Inspired by traditional Chinese cooking techniques and American-style peanut sauces, this fusion dish is quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and an instant favorite with both kids and adults. It’s also perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests with something just a little different.

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🕒 Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

🍽️ Servings

Serves approximately 4 people

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Peanut Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup water (adjust for consistency)
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha (optional for heat)

For Serving (Optional):

• Chopped scallions
• Crushed peanuts
• Steamed jasmine rice or noodles
• Stir-fried vegetables

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken with soy sauce, vinegar, and cornstarch. Toss to coat and let sit while you prepare the sauce and heat the pan.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency — it should be pourable but thick enough to cling to the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even browning.

Step 4: Add the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the peanut sauce and toss to coat the chicken. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped scallions and crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

• Quick and easy – Ready in 30 minutes or less
• High in protein – A satisfying and filling main dish
• Creamy, nutty, savory flavor – Perfectly balanced with tangy and sweet notes
• Kid-friendly – Familiar flavors with a mild, comforting sauce
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add veggies for a complete meal

🔁 Variations & Substitutions

Swap the protein – Try tofu, shrimp, or pork instead of chicken
Make it spicy – Add more sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes
Low-carb version – Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce cups
Vegetable-packed – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli stir-fried in sesame oil

❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze – Freeze cooked and cooled chicken with sauce for up to 2 months
Reheat – Microwave or reheat on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce

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❓ FAQ – Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure to stir it well and possibly add more sweetener to balance the flavor.

Is this the same as satay chicken?
Not exactly. Satay typically uses skewered grilled meat with a thinner dipping sauce, while this is a saucy stir-fry.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your hoisin and peanut butter for gluten-free labeling.

What’s the best rice to serve it with?
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully. You can also try brown rice or soba noodles.

🥄 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 780 mg

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

📚 More Asian-Inspired Fusion Recipes

Spicy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry – Jar of Lemons
Sticky Sesame Garlic Tofu – The Big Man’s World
Peanut Noodles with Vegetables – Minimalist Baker
Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Peanuts – Shuangy’s Kitchen Sink

💬 Get Involved

Tried this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe? Share your photo with the hashtag #FusionFlavorFix on Instagram, or leave a comment with your favorite twist on the dish!

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