Quick Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry in a Wok

Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry is a delicious dish with roots in Chinese cuisine. What makes it special is its harmonious blend of juicy chicken, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant vegetables, all seasoned with a savory sauce.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It is popular for its quick preparation time and the use of fresh ingredients. Cooking it in a wok pan enhances the flavors and textures while using minimal oil, making it a healthier option. I’m very happy to share this recipe with you, which is one of my favorites for its balance of taste and nutrition.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 1 cup unsalted peanuts
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Substitutions and Variations:

• Chicken: Substitute with tofu or shrimp for a different protein.
• Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap with snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.

Preparation Steps

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

1. Slice the chicken breast thinly.
2. Marinate the chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch.
3. Prepare and slice the vegetables.
4. Mince the garlic and slice green onions.
5. Mix hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and chicken broth in a bowl.

Prepping the Wok

1. Place the wok over medium-high heat.
2. Allow it to heat up for about 2 minutes before adding oil.

Cooking Instructions for Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry

1. Heat the Wok: Add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Swirl to coat the sides of the wok.
2. Cook Chicken: Add marinated chicken slices. Stir-fry until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Toast Peanuts: Add remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Toss in peanuts. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
5. Add Garlic: Push vegetables to the side. Add minced garlic to the center. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add back the cooked chicken and toasted peanuts. Pour in the sauce mixture.
7. Stir-Fry: Mix everything well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well coated.
8. Final Touch: Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top.

Essential Note: Make sure not to overcrowd the wok. This ensures optimal heat distribution and keeps the ingredients crisp and flavorful.

Also see: Easy Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry Recipe

Tips and Tricks

1. High Heat: Wok cooking requires high heat. Preheat the wok for best results.
2. Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients ready before you start. Wok cooking happens quickly.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Stir-fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and results in steaming rather than stir-frying.
4. Even Slices: Slice chicken thinly and uniformly for even cooking.
5. Stay Attentive: Keep stirring to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Under- or Overcooking: Monitor cooking times closely.
• Wrong Oil: Use oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.
• Skipping Marination: Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve with Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry

• Serve Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles.
• Complement with a side of sautéed greens or an Asian-style salad for a wholesome meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Storing: Place in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

The Bottom Line

Making Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry at home is easy and rewarding. You get a healthy, flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare, suitable for any busy night.

I urge you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Your feedback helps others and me refine our cooking.

For more delicious wok pan recipes, stay connected with Kit Yum.

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