One serving of Kung Pao Chicken contains approximately 220 calories. This popular Sichuan dish is a spicy stir-fry dish that's full of flavor and protein. In this article, we'll explore the history of Kung Pao Chicken, its ingredients, the nutritional value, how to cook it, and even some recommended side dishes to pair it with!

Kung Pao Chicken is a dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and spicy sauce. The sauce is usually made with soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers. Despite being high in calories, Kung Pao Chicken can be a healthy meal when prepared with fresh, healthy ingredients.

Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or enjoy a delicious meal with your family, Kung Pao Chicken is sure to be a hit!

What is Kung Pao Chicken?

Kung Pao Chicken is a traditional Chinese dish that originated in the Sichuan province. It is a spicy stir-fry dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce. The name Kung Pao comes from the Chinese word for 'palace guardian', which is a reference to a governor who once enjoyed the dish. Today, Kung Pao Chicken is enjoyed all over the world, and it's a staple of Chinese cuisine. It's a versatile dish that can be served with rice, noodles, or vegetables. If you're interested in making this delicious dish at home, keep reading for more information!

Ingredients in Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce. Here's a breakdown of each component: - Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs are usually used in this dish. The chicken is cut into small pieces and stir-fried until crispy. - Spicy sauce: The spicy sauce is made with soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili peppers. Other ingredients, such as garlic and ginger, can also be added for extra flavor.

Health Benefits of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken can be a healthy meal when prepared with fresh, healthy ingredients. Here are some of the health benefits of Kung Pao Chicken: - Protein: The chicken and peanuts in Kung Pao Chicken are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. - Vegetables: Many recipes for Kung Pao Chicken include vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, which add vitamins and minerals to the dish.

Nutritional Value of Kung Pao Chicken

One serving of Kung Pao Chicken (approximately 1 cup) contains the following nutrients: - calories: 220 - Fat: 11g

How to Cook Kung Pao Chicken?

Cooking Kung Pao Chicken is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps you'll need to follow: 1. Cut the chicken into small pieces and marinate it in soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes. 2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until browned on all sides.

Side Dishes to Pair with Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some recommendations: - Fried Rice: This classic Chinese side dish is made with white rice, scrambled eggs, vegetables, and often meat, seafood, or tofu. - Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and green beans are all great options for a healthy side dish.

Variations of Kung Pao Chicken Recipes

There are many variations of Kung Pao Chicken, depending on the recipe and region. Here are some popular versions: - Kung Pao Shrimp: This recipe uses shrimp instead of chicken, and is just as flavorful and spicy as the original. - Vegetarian Kung Pao: This version uses tofu instead of chicken, and is perfect for vegetarians and vegans.

Kung Pao Chicken vs General Tso's Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken and General Tso's Chicken are two popular Chinese dishes that are often confused with each other. Here's how they differ: - Chicken: Kung Pao Chicken uses diced chicken, while General Tso's Chicken is made with breaded and deep-fried chicken. - Sauce: The sauce for Kung Pao Chicken is spicy and savory, while the sauce for General Tso's Chicken is sweet and tangy.

History of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken dates back to the Qing Dynasty in China, which lasted from 1644 to 1912. The dish was originally made with diced chicken, Sichuan peppercorns, and peanuts. In the 1970s, Kung Pao Chicken became popular in the United States after Chinese immigrants opened restaurants and introduced Americans to the dish. Today, Kung Pao Chicken is enjoyed all over the world, and has become a staple of Chinese cuisine.

Famous Kung Pao Chicken Restaurants

If you're looking for a restaurant that serves delicious Kung Pao Chicken, here are some popular options: - P.F. Chang's: This chain restaurant serves a popular version of Kung Pao Chicken with peanuts, scallions, and red chili peppers. - China Star: This restaurant in New York City is known for its spicy and flavorful Kung Pao Chicken.