Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (Buffet Style) is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and a satisfying crunch that you simply can’t resist. This unique combination of juicy chicken with the creamy sweetness of peanut butter sauce makes for a fantastic addition to any gathering or a cozy family meal at home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you impressing your guests in no time.
Why We Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
The irresistible taste of this dish is what draws most people in—there’s something universally appealing about peanut butter. The tender, juicy chicken thighs are well-seasoned and coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, creating a textural contrast that is satisfying with every bite. Paired with a smooth, rich peanut sauce, this recipe transcends traditional flavors, taking your taste buds on a delightful journey. It’s perfect for buffets and gatherings because it’s easy to make in large batches and can be served warm or at room temperature. Plus, the vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Ingredients for Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (plus 1 tablespoon for the egg wash)
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
How to Make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Creating this delightful dish involves a few straightforward steps that anyone can master. Start by making the peanut sauce which serves as the flavor powerhouse of your dish. In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, soy sauce, and water. It might seem a bit tricky to mix at the beginning, but keep stirring as the ingredients will gradually blend into a creamy, smooth consistency. If it remains too thick, simply add a tablespoon of water at a time until the texture is just right.
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Grab your boneless chicken thighs and place them on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet, flatten each thigh to about a 1/2-inch thickness. This not only helps with even cooking but also ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat better.
Next, you will create the egg wash. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, flour, salt, and that tablespoon of peanut butter. The mixture should resemble a smooth pancake batter; adjust the consistency with more flour or water if needed for a perfect blend.
Now, arrange another shallow dish and fill it with panko breadcrumbs. This will be used for coating your chicken, giving it that irresistible crunch when fried.
To assemble your chicken, take each flattened thigh, dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated, and then transfer it to the panko breadcrumbs. Press down lightly to allow the breadcrumbs to adhere well. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust.
Once all the chicken is coated, heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F. Fry the chicken pieces one or two at a time, depending on the size of your skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they achieve a gorgeous golden brown color. After frying, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Finally, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and generously drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over the top. Your exquisite Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (Buffet Style) is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
Serving Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a visual treat as well as a flavorful experience. Arrange the crispy chicken pieces on a large platter. To elevate the presentation, you might want to garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts for an extra flair.
As for sides, consider pairing this dish with a light salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the peanut sauce. If you want to keep things authentic, serve it over steamed rice or even rice noodles. Not only do they soak up the delicious peanut sauce, but they also offer a neutral backdrop so you can truly savor the vibrant flavors of the chicken.
When hosting a buffet, make this dish a central feature, and watch how quickly it disappears. Guests will love the opportunity to serve themselves and will likely return for seconds—if not thirds!
Expert Tips: Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
To take your Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken to the next level, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Marination: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in a mix of soy sauce and a bit of peanut butter for a few hours or overnight. This extra step can enhance the overall taste profile.
- Oil Temperature: Always make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Proper temperature makes a significant difference.
- Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking for a crowd, it’s wise to fry the chicken in batches. This ensures even cooking without overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven frying.
- Crunch Factor: Feel free to experiment with different breading options. For a more sophisticated touch, you could blend panko with some crushed nuts for an added crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Don’t limit yourself to just drizzling the sauce on top! Offering the peanut sauce on the side allows everyone to control their preferred level of sauce.
How to Store Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers after a feast of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken, don’t fret! Proper storage can keep your delicious meal ready for future enjoyment. Allow the chicken to cool down completely before placing it in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the chicken from the peanut sauce if possible, as the sauce can make the chicken soggy over time. Properly stored, the chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you have a couple of options. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or use a microwave if you’re in a rush. If you stored the sauce separately, heat it gently in a pan or in the microwave before drizzling it over your warm chicken.
Variation of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
While the traditional recipe shines on its own, there’s always room for experimentation in the kitchen. Here are a few variations you could consider:
- Spicy Kick: For those who crave something spicy, add some chili paste or sriracha to the peanut sauce. This creates a delicious fusion of sweet and spicy that is undeniably addictive.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture prior to breading and frying.
- Nuts Galore: Experiment with different nuts in your panko coating. For instance, adding almond flour or crushed cashews can change the flavor profile and bring unexpected depth to the dish.
- Coconut Cream: Swap the sweetened condensed milk for coconut cream for a tropical twist that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
- Asian Greens: Serve your dish with a side of stir-fried bok choy or Chinese broccoli to add some greens and a bit of crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken
What is Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken?
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a flavorful dish that features crispy fried chicken coated in panko breadcrumbs and topped with a creamy, sweet peanut sauce. It’s a delicious blend of textures and flavors inspired by Asian cuisine.
Can I make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Just fry the chicken, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave.
What can I serve with Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, rice noodles, or a refreshing salad. Adding some sautéed vegetables can also complement the richness of the chicken.
Is it possible to make a healthier version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can bake the chicken instead of frying it to reduce the oil content. Using whole grain breadcrumbs can also boost its nutritional profile.
How long can I store leftovers?
Stored properly in an airtight container, leftover Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the sauce separate to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken (Buffet Style)
Ingredients
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (for egg wash) Add to egg wash mixture
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water Adjust for sauce consistency
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs Flattened to 1/2-inch thickness
- 3 large eggs For the egg wash
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs For coating the chicken
Instructions
Make the Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, soy sauce, and water. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten each chicken thigh to about 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, flour, salt, and the tablespoon of peanut butter to create an egg wash.
- Set up another shallow dish with panko breadcrumbs for coating.
Coat and Fry the Chicken
- Dip each flattened chicken thigh in the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Fry the chicken pieces for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Serve
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over the top.
- Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts if desired.
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