Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti

This Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of a classic Chinese stir-fry and comforting Italian pasta. It features tender chunks of chicken, crunchy peanuts, and colorful bell peppers, all coated in a flavorful Kung Pao sauce. The dish is then tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti, offering a unique and delicious twist to the traditional Kung Pao Chicken. It's a one-pan wonder that's both satisfying and packed with a variety of textures and flavors.

How to prepare Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 500 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1/2 cup unsalted dry roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 8-10 dried red chilies, adjust to taste
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon crushed Szechuan peppercorns (optional)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
• 2 teaspoons cornflour

For the Kung Pao Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
• 2 teaspoons cornflour
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar or balsamic vinegar

For the Spaghetti:

• 200 g spaghetti

Instructions:

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, and cornflour. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare Kung Pao Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, Chinese rice wine, cornflour, granulated sugar, and Chinese black vinegar. Set aside.
3. Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti as per the package instructions until al dente. Drain and keep aside.
4. Fry Aromatics: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil, dried red chilies, and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook for about 30 seconds, until aromatic.
5. Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the wok. Stir-fry until it is mostly cooked, about 5 minutes.
6. Add Vegetables and Nuts: Mix in garlic, diced bell peppers, and peanuts. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Add Sauce: Pour the prepared Kung Pao sauce into the wok. Add scallions and stir until the sauce thickens, approximately 1-2 minutes.
8. Combine with Spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the wok. Mix well to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated with the chicken and sauce.
9. Serve: Dish out the Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti while it's hot and ready to enjoy!
10. Dobar tek!

How to Serve and Pair

Serving Suggestions: Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it in a wide, shallow bowl or a platter to display its colorful ingredients and rich sauce. Garnish with additional scallions or chopped peanuts to enhance both the flavor and the presentation. Each serving should have a balanced mix of chicken, spaghetti, and vegetables, ensuring every plate is hearty and satisfying.

Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling, which can balance the spiciness with their crisp acidity. For beer lovers, a pale ale or a lager complements the bold flavors without overwhelming them. For a non-alcoholic beverage, chilled jasmine or green tea can be refreshing and help soothe the palate from the spice.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian-Friendly Alternative: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian variant.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the soy sauce and spaghetti are gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
• Allergen Note: Contains soy and peanuts.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Marinate in Advance: The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead, enhancing the flavor.
• Pre-Mixed Sauce: Prepare the Kung Pao sauce beforehand and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Vegetable Prep: Chop the bell peppers, garlic, and scallions a day in advance and refrigerate.
• Partial Cooking: The chicken can be pre-cooked and refrigerated. When ready to serve, reheat it in the wok, add vegetables, sauce, and spaghetti.
• Reheating Leftovers: If fully prepared ahead of time, gently reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a little water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

East Meets West: Kung Pao Chicken Spaghetti Delight