Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta

Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta Recipe from Japan | Penne, Chicken, Peanut Butter, Lime, Soy Sauce, Ginger, Cilantro

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of peanut butter with the zing of fresh ginger. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

This recipe is a fusion of Asian and Western flavors, combining the nuttiness of peanut butter with the aromatic spice of ginger. It is a popular dish in many households and is often served at dinner parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) penne pasta
3 boneless chicken breasts (skinned and chopped)
1 tbsp cornstarch
0.67 cup 1% low-fat milk
0.25 cup creamy peanut butter
2 limes, juice of
2 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
0.25 cup chopped chives (optional)

How to prepare

Cook the chicken in a skillet for approximately 2 – 3 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In a small bowl, dissolve corn starch in 2 tbsp of milk.
Stir in the remaining milk and add it to the skillet.
Cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly.
Reduce the heat to low.
In another small bowl, mix together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper.
Stir the peanut butter mixture into the milk mixture until it becomes smooth.
Add the chicken, chives, and cilantro.
Toss the mixture with pasta and enjoy!

Variations

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood version of this dish.
Add in some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the middle to ensure it is fully cooked.

- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

- Use a non-stick skillet to cook the chicken to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond butter or cashew butter in place of peanut butter if you have a nut allergy.

- Substitute the chicken with pork or beef for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, cilantro, and a wedge of lime for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any other allergens based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.

Summary

Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With the perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl just starting to learn how to cook. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook herself, had a friend who had traveled to Asia and brought back this unique recipe. As soon as I saw the list of ingredients and the combination of flavors, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

The first time I attempted to make Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta, I was a bit intimidated. The recipe called for ingredients that I had never used before, such as fresh ginger and sesame oil. But with my grandmother's guidance and encouragement, I dove right in.

I started by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. The smell alone was enough to make my mouth water. While the chicken was marinating, I cooked the pasta until it was al dente and set it aside.

Next, I sautéed some bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas in a bit of oil until they were crisp-tender. The colors of the vegetables were vibrant and inviting, adding a pop of freshness to the dish.

Once the vegetables were cooked, I added the marinated chicken to the pan and let it cook until it was golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of the ginger and garlic filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Finally, I added a creamy peanut sauce to the pan, stirring everything together until the chicken and vegetables were coated in the rich, nutty sauce. I then tossed in the cooked pasta, making sure to coat it evenly in the sauce.

When I plated the Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta and took my first bite, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The combination of the tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce was truly a delight for the senses.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes and preferences. Sometimes I add a bit of heat with some red pepper flakes, or switch out the vegetables for whatever I have on hand. But no matter how I make it, the dish always brings back memories of that first time I made it with my grandmother.

My grandmother's friend may have been the one to introduce me to the recipe for Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta, but it was my grandmother who taught me the importance of experimenting in the kitchen and trying new things. She taught me that cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about creativity and imagination.

And so, every time I make Ginger Peanut Chicken Pasta, I am reminded of my grandmother and the invaluable lessons she taught me. I am grateful for her guidance and influence, and for the delicious recipes she passed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my past and honor the traditions of my family. And with each bite of this flavorful dish, I am reminded of the love and joy that cooking has brought into my life.