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Szechuan Chicken

Szechuan Chicken: A Spicy Dinner That's Quick and Flavorful

Szechuan Chicken is a spicy and quick meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Chengdu to your dinner table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs or Breasts Choose thighs for a juicier option.
For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Swap with tamari for gluten-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Adds crispy texture.
For Cooking
  • 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil High smoke point oil for frying.
For Spice
  • 1 tablespoon Szechuan Peppercorns Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 4 pieces Dried Red Chilies Adjust for spice level.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Any color or variety.
  • 1 medium Onion Consider red onion for sharper flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger Fresh preferred, powdered works.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Balance heat with acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Brown sugar adds rich flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce For sweetness and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Toasted for more flavor.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions Chopped for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs or breasts with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss well and marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. While the chicken marinates, mix rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a separate bowl until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Place marinated chicken in the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Add Szechuan peppercorns and dried red chilies to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute.
  6. Add bell pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger, stir-frying for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender yet crunchy.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
  8. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate ahead, control spice levels, and ensure fresh ingredients are used. Store leftovers separately for optimal texture.

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