There's something magical about the combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. Tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce with hints of soy, garlic, and a touch of spice make this dish an instant favorite.

The first time I made this, it was a happy accident – a fusion of pantry staples and my craving for takeout. Now, it’s a regular on our dinner table, perfect for busy weeknights or when we’re in the mood for something comforting yet unique.
Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight rotation. This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a flavor-packed, budget-friendly dish that's surprisingly easy to make.
First and foremost, the flavor combination is irresistible. The creamy peanut butter melds beautifully with the umami of soy sauce, the tanginess of rice vinegar, and the warmth of garlic and ginger, creating a sauce that’s good enough to eat with a spoon.
It’s also incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for those busy nights when takeout feels like the only option.
This recipe is customizable and family-friendly, making it a hit with picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. Add vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp – it’s endlessly adaptable.
And let's not forget – it's budget-conscious. Using simple pantry staples like peanut butter, soy sauce, and chicken, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need and why each one is essential.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this recipe, as they stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts can also be used, but watch the cooking time to prevent drying out.
- Peanut Butter: The star of the dish! Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, rich sauce. Natural peanut butter works too, but you may need to adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth and a savory umami kick. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Rice Vinegar: This ingredient balances the richness of the peanut butter with a subtle tang. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute.
- Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics elevate the sauce with warmth and complexity. Fresh is best, but powdered versions can work in a pinch.
- Chili Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat goes a long way! Adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, or omit it entirely for a milder version.
- Honey or Brown Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness rounds out the flavors beautifully.
You’ll also need a large skillet or wok, a whisk for the sauce, and your favorite side dish – steamed rice or noodles are perfect companions.
How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Creating this delicious dish is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.
- Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of water or chicken broth to thin the sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Finish with Spice: Stir in chili sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or a drizzle of honey if needed.
Serve your Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice, garnished with sliced green onions or crushed peanuts for extra crunch.
Storage Options
Have leftovers? This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezing: Transfer the cooked chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one.
Variations and Substitutions
The versatility of this recipe is one of its best features. Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or even chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
- Add Vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas before adding the chicken back to the pan. This adds color, crunch, and extra nutrition.
- Change the Protein: Try this sauce with shrimp, pork, or even beef for a different take on the dish.
- Spice It Up: Love heat? Add more chili sauce, a dash of Sriracha, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers.
- Make It Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for an allergy-friendly version.
Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is forgiving and adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence.
Give it a try tonight – you might just find yourself making it again and again!
PrintChinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a flavorful and creamy dish made with tender chicken, rich peanut butter, soy sauce, and Asian spices. This easy-to-make recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making it an irresistible option for a family dinner or meal prep. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tbsp peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
- Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned and cooked through.
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, chicken broth, and chili flakes.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the chicken and stir to coat.
- Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens (use cornstarch if needed).
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the chili flakes.
- For a lighter version, use natural peanut butter and low-sodium soy sauce.
- This dish can also be made with tofu or shrimp as a variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
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