Kung Pao Wings
Spicy, savory Kung Pao Wings feature crispy chicken tossed in a flavorful sauce with peanuts and vegetables, perfect for parties or casual dinners with bold Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken wings into 3 sections and discard the wing tip section. Set the wings aside.
- In a bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, water, soy sauce, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes to make the sauce.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced red pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and vegetables are tender.
- Add the chicken wings to the skillet and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the wings and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add the peanuts and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a balanced flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty aroma. You can substitute chicken wings with bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a different texture. If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. Serve with steamed broccoli for a colorful side that complements the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Kung Pao Wings hot over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce wonderfully. Consider pairing with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed Asian vegetables for a light crunch. This dish also pairs beautifully with Orange Chicken With Oriental Vegetables for a delightful family meal featuring multiple Chinese recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kung Pao Wings contains roughly 457 calories, with 13g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% 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 make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Kung Pao Wings recipe gluten-free by using tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure that any other ingredients, like cornstarch, are also certified gluten-free. This will maintain the delicious flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the crushed red pepper flakes or use a milder pepper such as bell pepper. Alternatively, if you enjoy more heat, add fresh chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Customizing the spice allows you to cater to your taste preferences.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just cook the chicken wings and vegetables right before serving to retain their crispness and flavor. This makes for an easier cooking process when you're ready to enjoy the meal.
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).