Keto Kung Pao Chicken

This keto-friendly kung pao chicken recipe brings all the flavorful sweet, savory and spicy tastes of traditional Chinese takeout kung pao chicken to your low carb lifestyle. Chicken is stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, peanuts and chilies in a sticky, slightly spicy kung pao sauce. Cauliflower rice stands in for high-carb white rice to keep it keto. Enjoy a satisfying ‘fake out’ meal that hits the spot without knocking you out of ketosis.

Ingredients

To make this delicious keto kung pao chicken recipe, you will need:

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
• Bell pepper, sliced
• Red onion, chopped
• Roasted peanuts
• Dried chilies
• Soy sauce or coconut aminos (keto sub for soy)
• Rice vinegar
• Erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
• Toasted sesame oil
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Red pepper flakes
• Cauliflower rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp erythritol, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp minced ginger and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add 1 lb cubed chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate 15 minutes.

Cook the Cauliflower Rice

While chicken marinates, cook cauliflower rice according to package directions. Set aside when finished.

Stir Fry the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup each sliced bell pepper and chopped onion. Stir fry 4-5 minutes until starting to soften.

Add Chicken and Finish Stir Frying

Push veggies to the side of the wok. Add marinated chicken. Stir fry 3-4 minutes until lightly browned on the outside and cooked through. Add veggies back in and stir fry 1 minute more.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp erythritol, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp red pepper flakes and 1/4 cup water. Pour sauce over chicken and veggies in wok. Add 1/4 cup roasted peanuts and dried chilies to taste. Toss everything together until coated in sauce.

Serve Kung Pao Chicken

Serve kung pao chicken and sauce immediately over cauliflower rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions and extra peanuts if desired.

Tips for Making Perfect Keto Kung Pao Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for best flavor or breast if you prefer leaner meat.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
• Substitute almond flour for peanuts if you have a peanut allergy.
• If the sauce seems too thick, thin with a little water.
• For extra crunch, garnish with chopped roasted almonds.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Allow kung pao chicken to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick. You can also freeze meal prep portions up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Tasty Keto Chinese Food Recipes

If you love Chinese food, try these other delicious keto-friendly recipes:

• Keto Beef and Broccoli
• Keto Egg Drop Soup
• Keto Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• Keto Mongolian Beef
• Keto Cashew Chicken

Conclusion

This keto kung pao chicken recipe allows you to enjoy the sweet, savory and spicy flavors of takeout in a low carb, keto-friendly version. Chicken is stir-fried with colorful veggies then coated in a quick homemade kung pao sauce. Cauliflower rice keeps it keto without missing out on the rice that typically accompanies kung pao chicken dishes. Enjoy this easy ‘fake out’ meal when that Chinese food craving strikes!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best keto sub for soy sauce?

Coconut aminos has a similar flavor profile to soy sauce without the added carbs.

Do I have to use cauliflower rice?

No, but cauliflower rice helps to keep the meal low carb and keto-friendly.

Can I use another veggie instead of bell pepper?

Absolutely. Onion, celery, snap peas, water chestnuts and mushrooms also work well.

Is kung pao chicken spicy?

It has a moderate kick from red pepper flakes and dried chilies. Adjust the amounts to your taste preference.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?

Thin it with a little water until you reach the desired consistency.