There's nothing quite like the blend of creamy, nutty goodness and savory spices in Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. With tender pieces of chicken coated in a rich peanut butter sauce infused with soy, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, this dish brings bold, comforting flavors to your table.

I discovered this recipe while experimenting with Asian-inspired flavors to create a quick weeknight dinner. It’s now a family favorite that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal. Let me show you how to make it!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection! This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken is a flavor-packed, versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

The flavor profile is out of this world. The creamy, savory peanut butter sauce has just the right amount of sweetness and spice to keep every bite interesting. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, so you don’t have to worry about picky eaters.

Plus, this recipe is super budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like soy sauce, peanut butter, and a touch of honey means you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy this indulgent dish.

Lastly, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re looking to make it gluten-free, vegetarian, or even swap out the protein, this recipe can handle it all. Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients that work together to create a perfectly balanced dish.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender during cooking, but you can also use chicken breast if that’s what you have on hand. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter is the key to a velvety sauce. While natural peanut butter works, regular varieties create a creamier texture. If you prefer a chunky peanut sauce, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter.
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty, umami depth to the dish. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level, or opt for tamari for a gluten-free option.
Honey: A touch of sweetness from honey balances the savory peanut butter and soy sauce. If you’re vegan or don’t have honey, maple syrup works beautifully as a substitute.
Aromatics: Minced garlic and grated ginger are essential for that authentic Chinese-inspired flavor. These fresh ingredients elevate the sauce and make the dish truly shine.
Chili Paste or Sriracha: For a bit of heat, a teaspoon or two of chili paste or Sriracha does the trick. Adjust to your spice preference, or leave it out for a milder version.

You’ll also need a large skillet or wok for stir-frying, and a whisk to mix the sauce for best results.

How to Make Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Creating this flavorful dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, and add a tablespoon of oil. Cook the chicken in batches, ensuring each piece gets a golden-brown sear. Set the cooked chicken aside.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of peanut butter, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and a splash of water to thin it out. The sauce should be creamy and pourable.
Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a drizzle of oil. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the peanut butter sauce over it. Stir well to coat every piece. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more soy sauce for saltiness, or a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy days!

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freeze: For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Pan-fry the tofu until golden before adding it to the sauce for a satisfying meat-free option.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Different Proteins: Try this recipe with shrimp, pork, or even beef strips. Adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein of choice is cooked through.
Spice Levels: Love heat? Add a teaspoon of chili oil or increase the chili paste for a spicier kick. For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili altogether.
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the dish. The crunch of fresh vegetables pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Experiment, have fun, and enjoy discovering your favorite version of Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again!