Ginger Peanut Chicken
A flavorful chicken dish featuring ginger, peanut butter, and tomatoes, perfect for those who enjoy a rich, slightly spicy Asian-inspired meal with bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 to 14 chicken pieces ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. ground ginger ⓘ
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz.) cans whole tomatoes, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste ⓘ
- pineapple chunks (if desired) ⓘ
- 1 (4 1/2 oz.) can chopped mild green chilies ⓘ
- 1 to 2 Tbsp. finely chopped ginger root ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, pressed ⓘ
- 2 cups hot water ⓘ
Instructions
- Remove skins from chicken pieces.
- Sprinkle chicken with salt and ground ginger.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in hot oil, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer chicken to a plate, reserving pan drippings in the skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense ginger flavor, consider using fresh ginger root instead of ground ginger. You can also substitute chicken thighs for the pieces for more moisture and flavor. If you're looking to reduce calories, opt for less oil or a non-stick skillet. Pineapple chunks add a sweet contrast, so feel free to include them based on your taste preferences. This dish pairs well with rice or noodles, similar to other chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ginger Peanut Chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions on top can enhance the dish's flavor and presentation. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Spiced Apple Turkey for a festive gathering, offering a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it doesn't dry out. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Peanut Chicken contains roughly 1579 calories, with 62g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (124% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), and potassium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead of pieces with skin?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Boneless cuts may require less time to brown, so keep an eye on them during cooking.
What can I substitute for green chilies?
If you prefer a milder flavor or don't have green chilies, you can use diced bell peppers or omit them altogether. Alternatively, jalapeños or serrano peppers can be used for added heat, adjusting to your spice preference.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, ensuring to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also enhance the sauce with additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, maintaining the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).