Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A savory and spicy stir-fry featuring tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a vibrant chili garlic sauce, perfect for a quick dinner. This chinese-inspired chicken ready in about 22 minutes blends thinly sliced boneless chicken breast, peanut oil, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Chinese cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 1 lb thinly sliced boneless chicken breast with 1 tsp cornstarch and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp peanut oil in a wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely chopped fresh red chili; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  3. Step 3: Add the chicken slices and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until cooked through and slightly golden on the edges.
  4. Step 4: Mix 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl, then pour the sauce into the wok; cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1/3 cup roughly chopped roasted peanuts and 2 sliced scallions, sautéing for another 30 seconds.
  6. Step 6: Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil over the dish, toss to combine, and serve immediately with steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Chicken with Peanuts and Chili Garlic Sauce?

Chinese chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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