There's something magical about the blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. This dish combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces with a rich, creamy peanut sauce that's infused with Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

The first time I made this recipe, I was inspired by a craving for something both comforting and exotic. It’s now a family favorite, gracing our table whenever we want a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you're feeding a busy household or planning a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Prepare to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner. Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can even prep the sauce ahead of time for an even faster turnaround.

Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, peanut butter, and soy sauce, this recipe is easy on your wallet while still delivering a gourmet experience.

Packed with Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter, salty soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic creates a sauce that's nothing short of addictive.

Customizable: From adding heat with chili flakes to substituting vegetables, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate or pantry.

Once you've tried this recipe, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its balance of bold flavors and simple ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.

Peanut Butter: The star of the sauce! Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. Natural peanut butter works well too, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid a gritty sauce.

Soy Sauce: This adds a savory depth to the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, or use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients provide a fragrant base for the sauce. Freshly minced is best, but powdered versions can work in a pinch.

Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.

Honey: A bit of honey adds sweetness to the sauce. Maple syrup or brown sugar can work as alternatives.

Vegetables: Optional but highly recommended! Add colorful bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.

You’ll also need a large skillet or wok for cooking and a whisk to ensure a silky-smooth sauce.

How To Make This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Making Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a straightforward process, perfect for cooks of any skill level. Let me guide you step by step.

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, adding a splash of oil once hot.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, lower the heat and add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a splash of water or chicken broth in a small bowl, then pour it into the pan.
Combine Everything: Stir the sauce until smooth and heated through. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat every piece in the luscious peanut sauce. If adding vegetables, stir them in at this stage and cook until tender-crisp.
Serve: Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve over steamed white rice, fluffy jasmine rice, or even noodles for a complete meal.

In just 25-30 minutes, you'll have a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Chinese takeout spot.

Storage Options

Leftovers of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken are just as delicious, if not better! Here’s how to store and reheat this dish:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add Heat: Stir in a spoonful of chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Switch Up the Protein: This sauce works wonderfully with shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced pork.
Go Veggie: Make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh. Add plenty of stir-fried vegetables for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Adjust the flavor balance with a bit more soy sauce and sweetness.
Serve with Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked lo mein or spaghetti for a noodle dish the whole family will love.

Feel free to experiment with these variations until you find your favorite combination!

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a dish that checks all the boxes – quick, flavorful, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, you'll see why it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. What will you serve it with first? Let me know in the comments!