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Kung Pao Chicken Zoodles

Kung Pao Chicken Zoodles

The ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist! Kung Pao Chicken Zoodles combines juicy chicken with crunchy zucchini noodles in a delectable sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium Zucchini about 8 oz each, ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon Grapeseed or Canola Oil
  • 6 oz Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • to taste Kosher Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 Red Bell Pepper cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Ground Ginger
  • 2 tablespoons Crushed Dry Roasted Peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons Sliced Scallions thinly along diagonal
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Reduced Soy Sauce tamari for gluten free
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Hoisin Sauce
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons Water
  • 1/2 tablespoon Sambal Oelek Red Chili Paste or more to taste
  • 2 teaspoons Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Cornstarch

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet
  • Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Using a spiralizer with the thickest noodle blade, or a mandolin fitted with a julienne blade, cut the zucchini into long spaghetti-like strips. If using a spiralizer, use kitchen scissors to cut the strands into pieces that are about 6 to 8 inches long so they’re easier to eat.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, hoisin sauce, water, Sambal Oelek, sugar, and cornstarch; set aside. This sauce will bring all the flavors together.
  3. Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and black pepper, to taste. Heat the grapeseed oil in a large, deep nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add the red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir in the prepared soy sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until thickened and bubbling, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the zucchini noodles and cook, mixing for about two minutes until just tender and mixed with the sauce. If it seems dry, don't worry; the zucchini will release moisture which helps create a sauce.
  7. Once cooked, mix the previously set aside chicken back into the skillet, combining it with the vegetables and sauce.
  8. Divide the mixture between two bowls (about 2 cups each) and top with crushed dry roasted peanuts and scallions.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

  • Tip 1: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 2: This dish is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to separate the zoodles from the sauce to avoid sogginess.
  • Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a light salad. You can also serve it with some spring rolls for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for a more flavorful dish! Fresh vegetables and good-quality soy sauce really make a difference.
  • Tip 5: For an impressive presentation, serve the dish in a colorful bowl and garnish with extra scallions and peanuts.