Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Introduction

Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a bold, spicy sauce, this stir-fry is a feast for the senses. It combines savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Served over rice or noodles, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spice level.

I first made this stir-fry when I was craving something flavorful and fast, and it turned out to be the ideal dish for a busy evening. The heat from the chili peppers mixed with the richness of the sauce makes each bite incredibly satisfying. The best part is how versatile it is—you can add in any vegetables you like, from bell peppers and onions to broccoli and snap peas. And if you’re a fan of extra heat, just add a bit more chili paste or fresh peppers.

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can whip up a spicy stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick meal. Whether you’re making it for yourself or feeding the family, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Quick and healthy meals
• Spice lovers
• Asian-inspired cuisine fans

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Here’s why Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry will become a go-to favorite:

• Fast and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy chili, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a bold and addictive flavor.
• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this stir-fry is a balanced meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats well, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (such as sambal oelek or gochujang)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• Chili Paste: Sambal oelek or gochujang adds spice and depth of flavor to the stir-fry. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.
• Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and broccoli provide texture, color, and nutrition. Feel free to swap in your favorites.
• Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: These give the dish its savory, umami flavor. Oyster sauce also adds a touch of sweetness.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: Balances the heat and adds a subtle sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry:

Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Slice the vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken:

3. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and broccoli. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Make the Sauce and Combine:

5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the chili paste, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Add the cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce.
6. Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Serve and Garnish:

7. Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and sliced green onions.

How to Serve Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Over Rice: Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice.
• With Noodles: Pair it with noodles like lo mein, soba, or rice noodles for a hearty meal.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal.
• As a Meal Prep Dish: Divide into meal prep containers for easy weekday lunches.

Additional Tips for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Here are some tips for making the perfect Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry:

• Use High Heat: Stir-frying is done best over high heat for a quick sear and vibrant vegetables.
• Prep Everything First: Stir-frying moves fast, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
• Adjust the Spice: Start with less chili paste and add more to taste if you prefer a milder dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chicken and vegetables.
• Add a Squeeze of Lime: Brighten up the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

Recipe Variations for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Here are 10 variations you can try for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry:

1. Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef.
2. Shrimp Stir-Fry: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
3. Vegetarian Stir-Fry: Skip the chicken and add tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, and baby corn.
4. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry: Add roasted cashews for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry: Increase the honey for a sweeter sauce.
6. Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry: Add fresh or canned pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy kick.
7. Thai-Inspired Stir-Fry: Add fish sauce, fresh basil, and a touch of coconut milk.
8. Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
9. Hoisin Chicken Stir-Fry: Add hoisin sauce for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
10. Extra Veggie Stir-Fry: Add zucchini, carrots, or bok choy for a veggie-packed version.

Freezing and Storage for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Here are some items that will make preparing your Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry easier:

• Wok or Large Skillet: For the best stir-fry experience, use a wok or a large skillet with high sides.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes it easy to prep the chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting Board: Use a separate cutting board for chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
• Garlic Press: For quickly mincing garlic.
• Tongs or Spatula: For easy flipping and stirring.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions for Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

1. Can I make this dish less spicy?
   Yes! Reduce the amount of chili paste or leave it out entirely for a milder version.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well in stir-fries. Just cook them a bit longer to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken? Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
4. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish? Yes, you can add more or less chili paste or hot sauce depending on your preference for spice
5. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
   Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through.

Print

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is the ultimate go-to meal when you’re craving something flavorful, quick, and satisfying. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a perfect balance of spice, this dish brings bold flavors to your table in no time. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the heat to suit your taste.

Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or preparing meals for the week ahead, this stir-fry is sure to become a staple. It’s a simple yet tasty dish that feels like a treat with every bite!

I’d love to see how your Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your spicy, delicious creation! Happy cooking!