This Szechuan Chicken is a bold, fiery dish bursting with flavor, perfect for anyone who loves a mix of heat, tang, and umami. Tender chicken pieces are stir-fried with crunchy vegetables and coated in a spicy, garlicky Szechuan sauce featuring chili paste, soy, and a hint of sweetness. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of spice, savoriness, and texture, making it an exciting main course for weeknight dinners or a special occasion meal. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the sauce.
2. Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 small onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon ginger, grated
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2–3 tablespoons Szechuan chili paste (adjust to taste)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
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1 teaspoon sugar
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½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
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2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
3. Instructions
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Prepare the sauce:
In a small bowl, mix Szechuan chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sugar. Set aside. -
Cook the chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
Stir-fry the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Stir-fry bell peppers and onions for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Combine chicken and sauce:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the prepared Szechuan sauce and stir to coat all the ingredients evenly. -
Thicken the sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. -
Garnish and serve:
Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 30 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 3–4 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Sugar: 6 g
7. Tips
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Adjust heat: Reduce or increase the Szechuan chili paste depending on your spice tolerance.
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Vegetable variations: Add snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra crunch and color.
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Marinate for extra flavor: Toss the chicken in a teaspoon of soy sauce and cornstarch before cooking for juicier, more flavorful pieces.
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Make ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance to save time on busy nights.
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Serving suggestion: Sprinkle with crushed dry red chilies for added heat and visual appeal.
8. Final Thought
This Szechuan Chicken is a fiery, flavorful dish that delivers authentic Chinese restaurant flavors at home. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and sticky, spicy sauce create a satisfying balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. Quick to make yet packed with bold flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone craving a vibrant and comforting stir-fry.
