Are you ready to level up your culinary game with a flavor combination that’s both familiar and exotic? Look no further than the marriage of creamy peanut butter and spicy Chinese flavors. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine these two ingredients in innovative ways, from stir-fries and noodle dishes to wraps and skewers.
From the numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns to the sweet and sour tang of honey, each dish on this list offers a unique take on the classic peanut butter chicken formula. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into our collection of spicy Chinese peanut butter chicken delights below and get ready to ignite your culinary creativity!
Szechuan Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry
A spicy and nutty twist on traditional chicken stir-fries, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the creamy richness of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt to taste
– Cooking oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, Szechuan peppercorns, and cornstarch.
2. Add chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the peanut butter mixture.
3. Heat 1-2 tbsp cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Peanut Butter Chicken with Honey Glaze
Crispy Peanut Butter Chicken with Honey Glaze: A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken, this dish combines the crunch of peanuts with the richness of honey for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Dip each chicken breast in the peanut butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll coated chicken in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Drizzle with additional honey (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the bold flavor of spicy chicken and noodles, making for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8 oz noodles (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, peanuts, or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp peanut butter over medium-high heat. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Combine cooked noodles and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional scallions, peanuts, or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kung Pao Peanut Butter Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Kung Pao chicken with the creamy richness of peanut butter, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional Sichuan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp oil and stir-fry garlic, chili flakes, and scallions for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken back into the wok and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (such as iceberg or romaine)
– Sliced scallions and diced cucumber for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and toss until coated with the peanut butter mixture.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing a few pieces of cooked chicken onto a lettuce leaf, then garnish with scallions and cucumber (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken Wings
Get ready to fall in love with these sweet and savory chicken wings! A perfect combination of sticky peanut butter, spicy heat, and crispy texture will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the sticky mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This creamy and savory stir-fry combines the flavors of peanut butter, chicken, and broccoli for a quick and delicious meal. With its rich aroma and bold taste, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and water. Pour into the pan with the broccoli and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to coat with the peanut butter sauce.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Skewers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken skewers, these Asian-inspired treats combine juicy chicken breast with creamy peanut butter and crunchy peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the chicken.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines savory peanut butter with chicken and vegetables to create a flavorful and filling dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry with the vegetable mixture until combined and heated through.
7. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the peanut butter sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken
A flavorful twist on classic chicken dishes, this sweet and spicy peanut butter chicken recipe combines the richness of peanuts with a hint of heat. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken breasts on it.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Lo Mein
Elevate your Chinese-inspired dish with the creamy richness of peanut butter! This unique fusion combines tender chicken, savory noodles, and a nutty sauce for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups lo mein noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp sesame oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the chicken mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Garnish with green onions and chopped peanuts (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken with Garlic Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of peanut butter with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a velvety garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with olive oil.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the peanut butter mixture evenly over each breast.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Dumplings
These creamy, savory dumplings combine the richness of peanut butter with the comfort of chicken and noodles. Perfect for a cozy night in or a unique dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in peanut butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Pour dumpling mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with cooked noodles and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
Peanut Butter Chicken Bao Buns
Moist chicken and creamy peanut butter come together in a harmonious union, wrapped in soft and fluffy bao buns. Perfect for a snack or meal, these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 4 bao buns (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and chicken. Mix until well combined.
3. Grill or bake the chicken mixture for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Split the bao buns in half and toast lightly.
5. Assemble the buns by placing a few pieces of the chicken mixture on each bun, followed by chopped scallions and sesame seeds (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Spring Rolls
Discover the perfect fusion of Asian flavors with these crispy spring rolls filled with creamy peanut butter and savory chicken. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their snack or appetizer routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Mix well until a smooth paste forms.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges of the wrapper with water.
4. Roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder, applying gentle pressure to seal the filling inside.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of spring rolls)
Peanut Butter Chicken Ramen Bowl
Savory peanut butter and chicken combine in a creamy, spicy bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup ramen noodles
– 1/4 cup frozen vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add frozen vegetables and cooked noodles to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are thawed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken with Black Bean Sauce
This creamy and savory dish combines the richness of peanut butter with the bold flavors of black beans, all wrapped up in a tender chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup black bean sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, black bean sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the peanut butter mixture evenly over both sides.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory twist on the classic stir-fry, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the tenderness of chicken and the crunch of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and soy sauce. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the pan and stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the peanut butter sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 mouth-watering Chinese peanut butter chicken recipes! From classic stir-fries to crispy wings and noodle dishes, each recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the bold flavors of China. Try Szechuan Peanut Butter Chicken Stir-Fry for a spicy kick, or opt for sweet and sticky Sticky Peanut Butter Chicken Wings. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like Peanut Butter Chicken Fried Rice or adventurous like Peanut Butter Chicken Dumplings, there’s something here to satisfy your cravings.
