Szechuan Skillet Chicken is a bold and spicy dish inspired by the famous Szechuan flavors of China’s Sichuan province. This recipe features tender pieces of chicken stir-fried with a mix of Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and vibrant vegetables, all coated in a savory, spicy sauce that has a perfect balance of heat and umami. The tingling, numbing spice from the Szechuan peppercorns adds an exciting layer of flavor to this dish, making it perfect for those who love heat and bold flavors. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, crushed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3-4 dried red chilies (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, crushed Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
This Szechuan Skillet Chicken is packed with fiery flavor and aromatic spices, offering a delicious and satisfying meal with the authentic taste of Szechuan cuisine!
