PF Chang’s Spicy Chicken Recipe

Are you a fan of the mouthwatering Spicy Chicken from Pf Chang’s but find yourself craving it at all hours? Why not bring the taste of this popular dish to your own kitchen with a homemade copycat recipe? 

Today, we’ll guide you through creating your very own version of Pf Chang’s Spicy Chicken that will have your taste buds dancing. From the perfect blend of spices to the ideal cooking techniques, get ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious meal that rivals the original. Stay tuned for step-by-step instructions and tips to recreate this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home.

What Ingredients Are In Pf Chang’s Spicy Chicken Sauce?

P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken features a signature sweet-spicy chili sauce that is a key component of the dish. The sauce is known for its tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. Here are the main ingredients typically found in the sauce:

Canola Oil 1 Tbsp

Canola oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the canola plant. It has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for frying and cooking at high temperatures. It’s also low in saturated fat and a source of healthy omega-3s.

Chicken Breast, Diced 1 Lb

Chicken breast is a lean cut of poultry known for its mild flavor and tender texture. It’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a popular choice for healthier dishes. Chicken breast is versatile and can be grilled, sautéed, or fried.

Cornstarch 1/2 Cup

Cornstarch is a fine, powdery starch derived from corn kernels. It’s commonly used as a thickening agent in sauces and soups. When mixed with liquid and heated, it forms a smooth, glossy texture, helping to give sauces like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken has a velvety finish.

Green Onions 1 Bunch

Green onions, also known as scallions, have a mild, slightly peppery flavor. Both the white and green parts are edible, with the white portion offering more intensity. They add a fresh, crisp texture and a burst of flavor to dishes like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Sweet Chili Sauce 1/4 Cup 

Sweet chili sauce is a tangy and mildly spicy condiment made from red chilies, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and salt. It has a balanced flavor profile, combining sweetness with a gentle heat. Often used in Asian dishes, it adds depth and complexity to sauces like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp 

Soy sauce is a salty, savory liquid made from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, and a fermentation agent. It’s used as a seasoning or marinade, offering umami flavor and depth. There are variations, including light, dark, and gluten-free options, often used in Asian dishes.

Hoisin Sauce 1 Tbsp

Hoisin sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory condiment made from fermented soybeans, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and various spices. Common in Chinese cuisine, it adds depth and a rich umami flavor to dishes. It’s often used in stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces.

Garlic 2 Cloves 

Garlic is a flavorful bulb from the Allium family, known for its pungent aroma and bold taste. It’s used in cooking to add depth and savory richness. When cooked, garlic mellows and becomes sweeter, making it a versatile ingredient in sauces and dishes like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Chili Flakes 1/2 Tsp

Chili flakes are dried, crushed red chili peppers, offering a spicy, slightly smoky flavor. They add heat and a mild pungency to dishes. Common in Italian and Asian cuisines, chili flakes can be adjusted in quantity to control the spiciness in sauces like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

White Rice 1 Cup

White rice is a staple grain with a mild flavor and soft texture. It’s the refined version of brown rice, having been stripped of its bran and germ. Often served as a base in Asian dishes, white rice complements sauces like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Water 1 1/2 Cups

Water is a neutral liquid essential for dissolving and mixing ingredients. It’s commonly used in cooking to adjust the consistency of sauces, like in P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken. Water helps balance flavors, ensuring the sauce has the right thickness and smooth texture.

Butter 1 Tsp

Butter is a rich dairy product made from churning cream. It adds a creamy texture and a subtle, rich flavor to dishes. In sauces, butter enhances the overall mouthfeel, providing a smooth consistency and depth of flavor, often complementing the spiciness in recipes like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Salt 1 Pinch

Salt is a mineral primarily used to enhance the flavor of food. It brings out natural flavors, balances sweetness, and can help control the overall seasoning of a dish. In sauces like P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken, salt adds the essential savory depth and richness.

Sesame Seeds 1 Tsp (For Garnish )

Sesame seeds are small, oval-shaped seeds that come from the sesame plant. They have a nutty flavor and add crunch and texture to dishes. Often toasted, they are used as a garnish or ingredient in sauces, enhancing both taste and visual appeal in P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken.

Essential Equipment For Homemade PF Chang’s Chicken

To make homemade PF Chang’s-style chicken, here are five essential pieces of equipment you’ll need:

1. Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, allowing high heat and quick cooking, but a large skillet can also work. It’s crucial for cooking the chicken evenly and creating that signature crispy texture.
   
2. Sharp Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for properly cutting the chicken and vegetables. Precision helps with even cooking and maintaining the right texture in the final dish.
   
3. Mixing Bowls: These are useful for marinating the chicken and tossing ingredients like the sauce, garlic, ginger, and seasonings together.
   
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.
   
5. Tongs or Slotted Spoon: These are handy for removing the chicken from the wok after frying and ensuring it’s crispy without excess oil.
   

With these tools, you’ll be able to replicate the delicious flavors and textures of PF Chang’s chicken at home.

How To Make Pf Chang’s Spicy Chicken At Home?

• In a bowl, combine the sauce ingredients and reserve for later use. Start the cooking process by adding the rice ingredients to the rice cooker.
• In a large bowl, combine chicken and cornstarch. In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and stir-fry it for 6–7 minutes, or until it is cooked through and browned.
• Serve the chicken over rice after tossing it with sauce. Add sesame seeds and green onions as garnish, then serve and enjoy.

Best Side Dishes To Serve With Spicy Chicken

When serving spicy chicken, it’s important to balance the heat with refreshing and complementary side dishes that enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice: The mild sweetness of coconut rice is a perfect contrast to spicy chicken. The richness of coconut milk helps tone down the heat while adding a lovely fragrance and flavor.
   
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic can offer a comforting and mellowing effect alongside spicy dishes. The smooth texture helps cool the palate between bites of spicy chicken.
   
3. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor that pairs well with spicy chicken. The slight char on the veggies adds depth to the meal without overwhelming the spices.
   
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to spicy chicken. The coolness and crunchiness help balance the heat, making it a perfect accompaniment.
   
5. Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a yogurt or vinegar dressing can cool down the heat from the chicken. Adding herbs like mint or dill enhances the refreshing quality of the salad.
   
6. Cornbread: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is another great side to pair with spicy chicken. Its subtle sweetness contrasts nicely with the spice, and it helps to absorb any sauces.
   
7. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: A simple vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans can add a healthy, crispy side to your meal without competing with the bold flavors of spicy chicken.
   

These side dishes offer a variety of textures and flavors to complement the heat of spicy chicken, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable meal.

How To Store And Reheat Leftover Spicy Chicken?

To store leftover Spicy Chicken, first allow it to cool down to room temperature. Then, place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating, there are a few methods:

1. Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Add the chicken and sauce, stirring occasionally until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken.
   
2. Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe container. Cover loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until hot.
   
3. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet, covering it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
   

Note: Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve quality.

By following these storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy your leftover spicy chicken almost as much as when it was freshly made!

Final Words

Recreate the tantalizing flavors of PF Chang’s Spicy Chicken in your own kitchen and impress your taste buds with this delectable dish. With the right ingredients and a bit of culinary magic, you can savor the taste of this popular restaurant dish from the comfort of your home. So, why wait? Get ready to spice up your cooking routine and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout option.

FAQs

Can You Make P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can make P.F. Chang’s Spicy Chicken gluten-free by asking for a gluten-free soy sauce substitute and confirming that no wheat-based ingredients are used in the sauce. Ensure the chicken is prepared with a gluten-free batter, or request a different preparation. It’s also important to avoid cross-contamination, so ask for the dish to be made separately if needed. Always confirm with the restaurant, as recipes and ingredient availability may vary.

What Kind Of Chicken Does P.F. Changs Usage?

P.F. Chang’s typically uses boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thigh in their dishes, including Spicy Chicken. The chicken is often battered and deep-fried before being tossed in flavorful sauces. For some dishes, they may use dark meat (chicken thighs) for a richer taste, but chicken breast is more common for lighter options. Always confirm with the restaurant if you have specific preferences or dietary concerns regarding the type of chicken used in a dish.