Top 1 Irresistible Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese

Posted on May 8, 2025 · By Elisa

Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese

If you’re looking for a dinner idea that’s packed with flavor, quick to prepare, and far from ordinary, this Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese style is exactly what you need. Inspired by the bold and creamy flavors of Chinese buffet classics, this dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes in every bite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, prepping for guests, or just craving something new, this easy, crispy chicken recipe is going to be your next obsession.

This dish is a hidden gem among Chinese food recipes chicken noodles and an exciting twist on traditional stir-fry. With just the right blend of Asian seasonings, creamy peanut butter, and tender chicken, it’s no wonder this meal is gaining popularity across kitchens everywhere. It’s also incredibly adaptable—you can enjoy it with noodles, rice, or even lettuce wraps if you’re keeping things light.

So, if you’ve been searching for recipes for dinner unique, keep reading. This isn’t your average stir-fry; it’s the kind of flavorful comfort food that satisfies every time.

What Is Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken? A Fusion of Flavor

At its core, Chinese peanut butter chicken is a fusion recipe that brings together the richness of peanut sauce with the savory goodness of Chinese-style stir-fried chicken. It’s typically made with bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or thigh meat, cooked until golden, then tossed in a creamy peanut sauce enhanced with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and just a touch of sweetness.

Unlike traditional peanut butter chicken curry or Thai satay, this Chinese-style version focuses more on savory, sticky, buffet-style textures and flavors. It often comes with crispy edges and a glossy finish, making it a standout in the world of Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese recipes. Plus, you can tailor the heat and sweetness to your preference, adding chili paste or honey depending on the mood.

If you’ve ever dined at a Chinese buffet and noticed a creamy chicken dish that stands out among the rest, chances are you’ve seen something close to this. It’s comfort food reimagined through a flavorful, globally-inspired lens.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese(Exact Quantities Included)

To make this flavorful peanut butter chicken recipe Chinese style, here’s everything you need:

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (about 680g), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

This list uses pantry staples and avoids anything too exotic, making this a perfect example of a Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chineseenough for weeknights, yet impressive enough for company.

Step-by-Step Instructions for This Easy Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese

First, start by preparing the chicken. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and warm water until smooth. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to stir in your red pepper flakes.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through until the pieces are golden and cooked through.

Reduce the heat to medium and add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the peanut butter sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and the sauce begins to thicken and bubble.

Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, then serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles. The result is a glossy, sticky, savory-sweet coating that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken—exactly what you want from a Chinese buffet peanut butter chicken dish.

Tools You’ll Need to Make This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese

This recipe doesn’t require much in terms of equipment. To make it, you’ll need:

  • Large nonstick skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Silicone or wooden spatula
  • Whisk (for the sauce)
  • Tongs (for turning the chicken)

Because it’s quick, simple, and doesn’t require deep frying, it’s a favorite among those seeking unique easy meals with minimal cleanup.

What Makes This Crispy Peanut Butter Chicken Stand Out?

Many chicken dishes are tasty, but this one stands out because of the contrast in texture and flavor. The cornstarch coating on the chicken gives it just enough crispness without needing a full breading or deep-frying. This makes it healthier than many takeout versions while still delivering the texture that’s essential in Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese.

Moreover, the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken instead of pooling at the bottom of the dish. Thanks to the peanut butter’s natural thickness, it emulsifies into a glossy finish that’s both indulgent and refined.

Another standout element? This dish’s versatility. You can easily turn this into chicken with yum yum sauce recipes by adding a drizzle of creamy mayo-based sauce on top or turning the leftovers into a noodle bowl the next day.

Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chineseat Home

To ensure your peanut butter chicken recipe Chinese style turns out perfect every time, here are a few tried-and-true tips:

  • Use chicken thighs if possible—they’re juicier and hold up better to bold sauces.
  • Don’t skip the cornstarch coating—it helps create a light crust that absorbs sauce beautifully.
  • Stir-fry in batches if needed. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming, not browning.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas to make it a one-pan meal.
  • Thin the sauce with a little extra water or broth if it thickens too much.

Following these tips will help you create Chinese buffet peanut butter chicken that’s better than takeout and perfect for weeknight cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese

While this isn’t exactly a peanut butter chicken curry, some similar mistakes apply. Here’s what to avoid:

  • Using chunky peanut butter unless you want texture—stick to smooth for a silky sauce.
  • Skipping sauce thinning—too much peanut butter without water can result in a sticky mess.
  • Adding garlic or ginger too early—they can burn quickly, so add them just before the sauce.
  • Cooking chicken on low heat—you need medium-high for that ideal sear and color.

Avoiding these errors will guarantee your dish delivers all the rich flavor you expect from a great peanut butter chicken recipe easy enough for any home cook.

Serving Suggestions: Chicken with Yum Yum Sauce Recipes and Sides

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

  • Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
  • Stir-fried noodles or lo mein
  • Steamed broccoli or bok choy
  • Crispy egg rolls or spring rolls
  • A drizzle of yum yum sauce or sriracha mayo for added richness

You can even turn this recipe into a rice bowl or lettuce wrap, making it one of those incredibly recipes for dinner unique that you’ll want to reinvent again and again.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stores beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, just add a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it even better the next day.

Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeknights or Meal Prep

This peanut butter chicken recipe Chinese version is ideal for meal prep. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The chicken can also be chopped and marinated in the cornstarch mixture a day in advance.

When ready to cook, everything comes together in under 20 minutes. Make extra and enjoy leftovers as wraps, over salads, or even tucked into steamed buns for a fusion snack.

Recipe Variations: Chicken Noodles, Curry, and Unique Easy Meals

This dish is ripe for variation. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

  • Chicken noodles: Toss the cooked chicken and sauce with lo mein or ramen noodles.
  • Peanut butter chicken curry: Add curry powder and coconut milk for a cross-cultural twist.
  • Spicy version: Stir in sambal or sriracha for heat.
  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower and follow the same method.
  • Crunchy topping: Add chopped peanuts or crispy shallots before serving.

Each of these tweaks transforms the base recipe into new unique easy meals while keeping that delicious peanut-chicken combo front and center.

Who Will Love This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese Style?

This recipe is a win with so many types of eaters. If you’re someone who:

  • Loves Chinese takeout but wants to cook at home
  • Craves creamy, nutty sauces
  • Needs dinner in under 30 minutes
  • Wants Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese enough for weeknights
  • Prefers recipes for dinner unique and flavorful

Then this dish is definitely for you. It satisfies both comfort food cravings and adventurous eaters alike.

FAQs About Recipes for Dinner Unique and Flavor-Packed

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and smooth to avoid separating.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, though the sauce may thicken slightly when reheated. Add a splash of water and stir well.

Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but you can easily add spice with red pepper flakes, chili oil, or sriracha.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but it won’t crisp up the same. Add it at the sauce stage and heat through gently.

Final Thoughts: Add ThisPeanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese to Your Dinner Rotation

This Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese style is everything you want in a homemade meal—bold flavors, satisfying texture, quick prep, and a restaurant-quality finish. Whether you’re looking for a go-to weeknight dinner, something new to meal prep, or just a break from your usual stir-fry routine, this dish will deliver every time.

It’s easy, endlessly adaptable, and consistently delicious, making it one of the best recipes for dinner unique you’ll find. So, gather your ingredients, warm up the skillet, and prepare for a dinner that’s guaranteed to impress. And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, save it for later, and subscribe to our blog for more flavor-forward meals that are anything but ordinary.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4 servings
Calories per serving: ~450 kcal (approx.)

Print
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Top 1 Irresistible Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe Chinese Style


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 30
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

: Make this irresistible peanut butter chicken recipe Chinese-style—savory, creamy, and quick. Better than takeout and ready in 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (about 680g), cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter

  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • ¼ cup warm water

  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)


Instructions

First, start by preparing the chicken. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and warm water until smooth. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to stir in your red pepper flakes.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through until the pieces are golden and cooked through.

Reduce the heat to medium and add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the peanut butter sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and the sauce begins to thicken and bubble.

 

Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, then serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles. The result is a glossy, sticky, savory-sweet coating that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken—exactly what you want from a Chinese buffet peanut butter chicken dish.

Notes

  • Using chunky peanut butter unless you want texture—stick to smooth for a silky sauce.

  • Skipping sauce thinning—too much peanut butter without water can result in a sticky mess.

  • Adding garlic or ginger too early—they can burn quickly, so add them just before the sauce.

 

  • Cooking chicken on low heat—you need medium-high for that ideal sear and color.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: DINNER
  • Cuisine: AMERICAIN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450

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