Oriental Chicken And Peanuts

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

Oriental Chicken and Peanuts combines tender chicken with crunchy peanuts and vibrant scallions, coated in savory soy and sherry for a quick, flavorful Asian-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 1 to 1.5 lb. boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 egg white
  • 4 tsp. cornstarch
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup scallions
  • 4 Tbsp. oil
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. sherry
  • red pepper, chopped

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken with beaten egg white, 3 teaspoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Refrigerate for several hours.
  2. Saute the marinated chicken in 4 tablespoons of oil for 3 to 4 minutes, until lightly browned.
  3. Blend in the remaining soy sauce, sugar, sherry, and chopped red pepper, holding the scallions aside.
  4. Add the scallions and 1/2 cup peanuts to the chicken, just to heat through.
  5. Serve immediately over rice.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispier texture, consider using a higher heat when sautéing the chicken. If you don't have sherry, rice vinegar can be a suitable alternative. For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result. If peanuts are not available, cashews work well and add a nice crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice, like Hot And Spicy Fried Rice, to absorb the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a vegetable stir-fry as a side.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the chicken.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Oriental Chicken And Peanuts contains roughly 342 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2089mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

342 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.9g 10% DV
Total Fat 26.7g 34% DV
Carbs 21.9g 8% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 0.8g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2089.4mg 91% DV
Potassium 274.7mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 37.1mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.1mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 6.3mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 46.7mg 4% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Soy

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 frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better absorption of flavors. It's best to marinate for a longer time if using thawed chicken to enhance the taste.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the dish's overall taste, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper?

The spiciness of the dish largely depends on the type of red pepper you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use bell peppers instead. For more heat, opt for jalapeños or Thai bird chilies, adjusting the quantity to your heat preference.

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).

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