Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken (Spicy & Easy)

Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken is the savory-spicy stir-fry with the addictive crunch of peanuts. This copycat recipe brings tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and dried chilies together in a glossy sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Savory, lightly spicy, and crunchy
• Better and fresher than takeout
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Loaded with vegetables and protein

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

A copycat of Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken - tender chicken stir-fried with peanuts, bell peppers, zucchini, and dried chilies in a savory, lightly spicy sauce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Stir-Fry

• 1 pound chicken thighs diced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 zucchini diced
• 6 dried red chilies
• 1/3 cup peanuts

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated

Equipment

• Wok or skillet
• mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Toss the diced chicken with the cornstarch. Whisk the sauce ingredients together.
2. Heat the oil in a wok over high heat and stir-fry the chicken until browned and cooked through, then remove.
3. Add the dried chilies, bell pepper, and zucchini and stir-fry 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Return the chicken, pour in the sauce, and toss 1-2 minutes until glossy.
5. Stir in the peanuts and serve hot over rice.

Notes

Dried red chilies add aroma and gentle heat without overpowering. Add the peanuts at the end so they stay crunchy.

Tips for the Best Kung Pao Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for the juiciest result
• Add peanuts at the end so they stay crunchy
• Dried chilies add aroma – remove them if you prefer less heat
• Have everything prepped before you start stir-frying

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat in a hot skillet to keep the vegetables crisp.

Variations to Try

• Use chicken breast for a leaner dish
• Add more chilies for extra heat
• Swap in cashews for the peanuts

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kung Pao Chicken spicy?

It is mildly spicy. The dried chilies add aroma and gentle heat that you can adjust to taste.

What vegetables go in Kung Pao Chicken?

Panda Express uses bell pepper and zucchini, along with peanuts and dried chilies.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, though thighs stay juicier. If using breast, avoid overcooking so it stays tender.

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