Wok It Out: Blackstone Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

In the world of savory and spicy Chinese cuisine, Kung Pao Chicken holds a special place. The delightful combination of tender chicken, roasted peanuts, and a flavorful sauce makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll delve into the art of cooking this classic dish using a Blackstone griddle, perfect for creating delicious Blackstone Chicken Recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Blackstone Kung Pao Chicken.

The Origins of Kung Pao Chicken

Before we embark on our culinary journey, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of Mexican Fiesta: Blackstone Chicken Enchiladas. This dish hails from the Sichuan province of China and was named after Ding Baozhen, a Qing Dynasty governor known by the honorary title Gongbao (Kung Pao). Its history is as rich as its flavors, and it has evolved over the centuries into the beloved dish we know today.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you fire up your Blackstone griddle, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice wine or dry sherry

For the Kung Pao Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
• 3-4 dried red chili peppers
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 green onions, chopped

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and rice wine. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is tender and packed with flavor.

Prepare the Kung Pao Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar and cornstarch dissolve completely. Set the sauce aside for later use.

Heat the Blackstone Griddle

Place your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Let it heat up until it shimmers.

Stir-Fry the Peanuts and Chilies

Add the unsalted roasted peanuts and dried red chili peppers to the hot griddle. Stir-fry them for about a minute or until they become fragrant. Remove them from the griddle and set them aside.

Cook the Chicken

Now, add the marinated chicken to the griddle. Spread it out in an even layer to ensure quick and even cooking. Stir-fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics and Bell Peppers

Toss in the minced garlic, minced ginger, diced bell pepper, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.

Incorporate the Kung Pao Sauce

Pour the prepared Kung Pao sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

Final Touch

Return the roasted peanuts and dried red chili peppers to the griddle. Toss everything one final time to combine.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve successfully wokked up a delicious Blackstone Kung Pao Chicken! The crispy chicken, the crunch of peanuts, and the tantalizing sauce come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. Serve it hot with steamed rice and enjoy the fusion of flavors. Looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying flavorful dishes? Explore our Celebrity Diet options for a delicious and nutritious meal plan.