As the sizzling sound of golden chicken frying fills my kitchen, I’m transported to the vibrant world of my favorite Chinese buffet. This Crispy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken recipe combines the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken with a creamy, sweet peanut sauce that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing. Just picture whipping up this delicious dish in under an hour—perfect for those busy weeknights or surprise guests! The aromatic blend of flavors and textures doesn’t just make for a delightful meal; it also brings everyone to the table, sharing smiles and stories. Are you ready to discover your new go-to family favorite?

Why will you love this chicken?

Crispy Texture: This dish boasts an irresistibly crunchy exterior that gives way to juicy chicken inside, making each bite a delight.

Rich, Creamy Sauce: The peanut butter sauce adds a luscious sweetness and complexity that elevates a familiar comfort food to an indulgent experience.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this meal up in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Whether you’re entertaining guests or feeding the kids, this dish is sure to please everyone; pair it with Lemon Chicken Orzo for a well-rounded meal.

Versatile Variations: From swapping chicken thighs for breasts to air frying for a healthier twist, you can tailor the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Get ready to enjoy a delightful twist on a classic—this recipe will soon become a family favorite!

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce

Peanut Butter – Provides the base of the sauce with a creamy texture; use processed peanut butter for smooth consistency.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess to the sauce; do not substitute with regular sugar as it alters the flavor significantly.
Soy Sauce – Contributes umami depth to the sauce; low-sodium soy sauce can be used for a healthier option.
Water – Thins the sauce while maintaining a creamy consistency; adjust as needed to achieve desired thickness.

For the Chicken

Boneless Chicken Thighs – The primary protein source, tender and flavorful; flatten for even cooking and crispiness.
Large Eggs – Used in the egg wash for adhering the breadcrumbs; can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the egg wash mixture and adds texture; can be replaced with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust quantity based on dietary preferences.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a light, crispy texture to the chicken; regular breadcrumbs may be used as an alternative, though texture may differ.

Ensure you have all these ingredients on hand for a delightful cooking experience as you create your own Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add more water to reach your desired thickness. Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Flatten Chicken
Take 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs and place each piece between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s approximately ½-inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness during frying. Set the flattened chicken aside and prepare for the next steps.

Step 3: Make Egg Wash
In a shallow dish, crack two large eggs and whisk them together with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and an additional tablespoon of peanut butter. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter-like consistency. This egg wash will help the panko breadcrumbs adhere beautifully to the chicken as it fries, creating that irresistible outer crunch.

Step 4: Bread Chicken
Take each piece of flattened chicken and first dredge it in the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, immediately transfer the chicken to a plate filled with panko breadcrumbs, pressing down gently to ensure an even and thorough coating. Repeat this process until all the chicken pieces are breaded and ready for frying.

Step 5: Fry Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a golden-brown color as the chicken cooks, ensuring it’s crisp and tasty. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it drain on a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve
Once your crispy Chinese peanut butter chicken is perfectly fried and golden, slice it into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle the creamy peanut butter sauce generously over the chicken and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions, personalizing your dish to your family’s taste and dietary needs.

Chicken Breasts: Swap boneless thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option. This version still holds its juicy integrity while being a little lighter.
Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free take. You’ll find that the creamy texture remains delightful, allowing everyone to enjoy the dish.
Air Fry: Try air frying the chicken instead of deep frying for a healthier alternative. It will still come out crispy but with less oil, making it lighter and just as satisfying!
Vegetarian Delight: Opt for tofu as the protein for a vegetarian variation. Press and marinade it in the peanut sauce, then bread and fry for a satisfying crunch.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the peanut butter sauce for an extra burst of heat. The combination of sweet and spicy can really elevate the flavors and bring more excitement to the table.
Coconut Milk: For a tropical twist, replace some of the water in the sauce with coconut milk. This will give it a rich flavor and creamy consistency that’s hard to resist.
Savory Dipping Sauce: Mix some soy sauce and honey together to create a tasty dipping sauce for the chicken. This addition can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

As you dive into this recipe, don’t hesitate to explore variations like serving alongside Honey Bourbon Chicken or complementing with Bang Bang Chicken for a feast that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

When it comes to creating a memorable meal, the right side dishes can elevate your crispy chicken experience into a delightful feast.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as the perfect canvas for the rich, creamy peanut butter sauce, soaking up every delicious drop. It’s mild, fluffy, and wonderfully complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful, crunchy veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add a refreshing bite alongside the crispy chicken. Their lightness and slight crunch balance out the richness, making for a harmonious dish.
Sesame Noodles: These savory noodles dressed in sesame oil and soy sauce bring a satisfying texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken. Toss them with scallions and sesame seeds for an extra flair.
Cabbage Slaw: A bright and tangy slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing offers a crunchy, refreshing complement. Its acidity helps cut through the richness of the peanut sauce, making every bite delightful.
Egg Fried Rice: This classic dish brings warmth and comfort to the table, with its fluffy grains and bits of egg. The umami flavors harmonize beautifully, enhancing the overall dish while providing heartiness.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A light salad of cucumber tossed in vinegar and sesame oil offers a cool, refreshing contrast to the fried chicken’s crispy texture. The crispness of cucumbers cleans your palate between bites.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, indulge in sweet sticky rice topped with ripe mangoes and coconut cream. The sweetness creates a delicious ending to the meal while harmonizing with the flavors of the chicken.
Crisp White Wine: Pair your dinner with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the peanut butter sauce. Its bright acidity and fruity notes will refresh your palate as you enjoy each bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken pieces are a fantastic meal prep option for busy cooks! You can prepare the chicken (flatten, bread, and coat) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the prepared chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The creamy peanut butter sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to cook, simply fry the chicken directly from the fridge for maximum crunch, and drizzle the sauce over the crispy pieces right before serving to enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture as if they were freshly made!

Storage Tips for Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the Chinese peanut butter chicken out for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness and safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken tasty for quick meals!
Freezer: If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze the chicken (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F or in an air fryer until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

Expert Tips for Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

Perfect Frying Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying to achieve that signature crispy texture; cooler oil can lead to soggy chicken.
Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken thighs to an even ½-inch thickness ensures they cook uniformly, preventing any pieces from becoming over or undercooked.
Sauce Consistency: If your peanut butter sauce is too thick, add water gradually to reach your desired creaminess, ensuring it coats the chicken beautifully.
Bread Effectively: Ensure thorough coverage of the chicken in both the egg wash and breadcrumbs to create that irresistible crunch, avoiding any naked spots.
Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature, which helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown finish and prevents steaming the pieces.
Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, and reheat them in an air fryer or oven for maximum crispiness—perfect for next-day enjoyment!

Crispy Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter is best for the sauce?
I recommend using processed peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy, for a smooth and creamy sauce. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, which can alter the desired consistency and flavor of your sauce.

How should I store leftovers of the crispy chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool down first for optimal preservation. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore that crispy texture.

Can I freeze the Chinese peanut butter chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the chicken (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. It can last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated through.

What if my chicken is soggy after frying?
If your chicken comes out soggy, it may be due to the oil temperature being too low. Ensure your oil is heated to 350°F before frying; this helps create a crispy exterior. If the chicken is already cooked but soggy, you can reheat it in an air fryer to crisp it up again.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! For those with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, which offers a similar creamy texture. If you’re accommodating dietary preferences, consider using flax eggs instead of regular eggs for the egg wash.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. To check for doneness, you can cut into a piece; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear. Happy cooking!