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Chinese Peanut Butter Chicken

A delightful buffet-style dish featuring tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a rich and creamy peanut sauce, perfect for gatherings and family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Peanut Sauce

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter Plus 1 tablespoon for the egg wash
  • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup water Add more if needed for desired consistency

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs Flattened to 1/2-inch thickness
  • 3 large eggs For the egg wash
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs High-quality for best texture

Instructions
 

Prepare Peanut Sauce

  • In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1/3 cup water.
  • Stir until it forms a creamy consistency, adding more water if needed.

Prepare Chicken

  • Flatten boneless chicken thighs to about 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
  • In a shallow dish, whisk together 3 large eggs, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and an additional tablespoon of peanut butter to create an egg wash.
  • Place 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs in another shallow dish for coating.

Coat and Fry Chicken

  • Dip each flattened chicken thigh into the egg wash, ensuring it's fully coated, then transfer it to the panko breadcrumbs.
  • Press lightly so the breadcrumbs adhere well to the chicken.
  • Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
  • Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  • Once cooked, remove the chicken and drain them on a wire rack.
  • Slice into bite-sized pieces and drizzle the remaining peanut sauce over the top.

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Notes

For garnishing, consider using chopped scallions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy chicken. Double the peanut sauce for extra dipping sauce and consider variations like adding sriracha for heat or using chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Keyword Asian Cuisine, Buffet Style, Easy Chicken Recipes, Family Dinner, Peanut Butter Chicken