Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry! This flavorsome dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory-spicy sauce. It's quick, easy, and perfect for a delectable weeknight meal.

Photos of Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

The unique ingredient in this recipe is sambal oelek, a spicy Southeast Asian chili sauce. If you're unfamiliar with it, you may need to look in the international or Asian section of your supermarket. Another ingredient to note is snow peas. These are often found in the fresh produce section, but if you can't find them, sugar snap peas make a great substitute.

Ingredients for Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken breast: A lean and protein-rich meat that is the star of this dish.

Olive oil: Used for its mild flavor to sauté the ingredients.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.

Fresh ginger: Provides a warm, spicy undertone.

Garlic: Lends a robust, savory note.

Bell peppers: Adds color, crunch, and a sweet-tangy flavor.

Snow peas: Contributes a sweet, fresh crunch.

Peanuts: Gives a pleasant, crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor.

Green onions and sesame seeds: Used for garnishing and adding an extra layer of flavor.

Rice: Complements the stir-fry and absorbs the delicious sauce.

One reader, Corliss Kuykendall says:

This Szechuan chicken stir-fry recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible and the dish is so easy to make. The sauce is the star - it's perfectly balanced and gives the dish a delicious kick. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and the nutty finish is just amazing. I can't wait to make it again!

Corliss Kuykendall

Techniques Required for Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

How to prepare the sauce: Whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, sambal oelek, rice vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined. Set aside.

How to cook the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season lightly with salt, and cook for about 6 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

How to stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add onion, ginger, and garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Then add bell peppers and snow peas and sauté for 2 minutes.

How to thicken the sauce: Whisk the sauce mixture once more, then pour it into the skillet over the vegetables. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are tender.

How to finish the dish: Toss in the cooked chicken and warm through. Season with salt if needed.

How to serve: Serve the stir-fry warm over rice, topped with peanuts, green onions, and sesame seeds.

How To Make Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

This chicken stir-fry is loaded with bell peppers and snow peas. It has a spicy-savory sauce and some added crunch from the peanuts.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Sauce:

⅓cuplow sodium chicken broth
3½tbspsoy sauce
1½tbspsesame oil
1½tbspsambal oelek,use more or less to taste
1tbsprice vinegar
1tbspgranulated sugar
4tspcornstarch

For Stir Fry:

1¼lbschicken breast,boneless, skinless, cut into 1 inch cubes
2tbspolive oil,divided
salt
½mediumyellow onion,sliced from top to root
1tbspfresh ginger,peeled and minced
3clovesgarlic,(1 tbsp), minced
1bell pepper,yellow, diced into short strips
1bell pepper,red, sliced into strips
1⅓cupssnow peas,diagonally sliced
½cuppeanuts,chopped, roasted and unsalted

For Serving:

green onions,sliced
sesame seeds
prepared rice

Instructions

Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, sambal oelek, rice vinegar, sugar and cornstarch until well combined, set aside.

Stir-fry

Heat oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken, season lightly with salt and cook for about 6 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken has cooked through.
Transfer to a plate. Heat remaining oil in skillet.
Add onion, ginger and garlic and saute for 1 minute. Add in bell peppers and snow peas and saute 2 minutes.
Whisk sauce mixture once more then pour into skillet over veggies. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes until sauce has thickened and veggies are tender.
Toss in chicken and warm through, season with salt if needed.
Serve warm over rice topped with peanuts, green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 422.77kcal
Fat: 27.55g
Saturated Fat: 5.33g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.88g
Carbohydrates: 14.36g
Fiber: 3.31g
Sugar: 6.88g
Protein: 30.13g
Cholesterol: 72.57mg
Sodium: 728.23mg
Calcium: 51.27mg
Potassium: 600.84mg
Iron: 2.57mg
Vitamin A: 131.23µg
Vitamin C: 79.63mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

When stir-frying, it's important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick cooking method and you won't have time to chop vegetables or measure out ingredients once you've started. Also, be sure to cut your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Organize ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, chop the vegetables to save time and make the cooking process more efficient.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to save time on prep work.

One-pot meal: Consider using a large skillet or wok to cook the entire dish in one pot, saving time on cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the dish, while also making it suitable for vegetarians or those looking to reduce their sodium intake.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies. It also has a slightly richer and smoother flavor compared to regular soy sauce.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can provide a similar nutty flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for sesame oil in stir-fry recipes.
sambal oelek - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can add a similar level of heat and depth of flavor to the dish, making it a suitable substitute for sambal oelek.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a slightly sweet and fruity flavor similar to rice vinegar, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish, while also providing a touch of floral notes.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar texture and consistency to the sauce.
chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a source of protein and a versatile texture for stir-fry dishes.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in high-heat cooking methods like stir-frying.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to yellow onions, adding a unique depth to the stir-fry dish.
bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers can add a mild heat and earthy flavor to the stir-fry, providing a unique twist to the dish.
snow peas - Substitute with snap peas: Snap peas have a similar crunch and sweetness to snow peas, making them a suitable substitute in the stir-fry recipe.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can provide a creamy and slightly sweet flavor, adding a different texture and taste to the stir-fry dish.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish, serving as a suitable substitute for green onions.
sesame seeds - Substitute with flaxseeds: Flaxseeds can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a suitable substitute for sesame seeds in the recipe.

Presenting Your Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Szechuan chicken stir-fry, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Use vibrant and colorful vegetables to add a pop of color and contrast.
Incorporate texture: Introduce crunchy elements such as toasted peanuts to provide a delightful textural contrast to the dish.
Balance the elements: Ensure that the stir-fry is balanced in terms of flavors and ingredients. Incorporate a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and umami notes to tantalize the taste buds.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the dish is meticulously arranged to showcase the artistry and skill behind the preparation.
Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the rich and flavorful Szechuan sauce with precision, creating an enticing visual presentation while allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through.
Garnish with finesse: Use fresh green onions and delicate sesame seeds as a final touch to add a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
Plate: A flat dish used for serving food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cup: A tool used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Small spoons used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and handling food.
Spatula: A flat tool used for flipping and lifting food.
Grater: A tool used for grating and shredding ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used for crushing and mincing garlic cloves.
Peeler: A tool used for peeling the skin of fruits and vegetables.

Storing and Freezing Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Let the szechuan chicken stir-fry cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the food from spoiling quickly and keep it fresh for longer.
Store the leftover stir-fry in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to place the airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back, to maintain its quality and freshness.
If you want to freeze the szechuan chicken stir-fry, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date of freezing and the contents, so you can easily keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
When freezing, it's best to portion the stir-fry into individual servings. This way, you can thaw only what you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
Frozen szechuan chicken stir-fry can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. However, keep in mind that the longer it stays in the freezer, the more likely it is to lose its texture and flavor.
To reheat the frozen stir-fry, first, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, heat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and the sauce is bubbling. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen up the sauce.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the frozen stir-fry directly in the microwave. Place the frozen portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it's heated through.

How To Reheat Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Leftovers

Reheat the szechuan chicken stir-fry in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil to the pan to help revive the flavors and prevent sticking. Stir-fry the leftovers for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the vegetables and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery.
If you prefer a more saucy reheated dish, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan while reheating. This will help loosen up the sauce and make it easier to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use the microwave. Transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat the stir-fry in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the vegetables to turn soggy.
If you have leftover rice, you can create a new dish by making fried rice with your leftover szechuan chicken stir-fry. Heat some oil in a large skillet or wok, add the leftover rice, and stir-fry for a couple of minutes. Then, add the leftover stir-fry and mix well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until everything is heated through and well combined.
To add some extra flavor and texture to your reheated szechuan chicken stir-fry, consider topping it with fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of peanuts. These toppings will give your leftovers a fresh taste and a satisfying crunch.

Interesting Fact About Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Szechuan chicken stir-fry is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that originated in the Sichuan province. It is known for its bold and spicy flavors, often featuring the use of Szechuan peppercorns and chili peppers.

Is Making Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

This Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast, bell peppers, and snow peas, are reasonably priced and readily available. The use of simple pantry staples like soy sauce and rice vinegar also contributes to its affordability. With an estimated cost of around $20, this flavorful dish can easily feed a family of four. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and taste, making it a practical and delicious choice for home cooking.

Is Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Szechuan chicken stir-fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthier aspects:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, promoting muscle growth and repair
The dish incorporates a variety of colorful vegetables, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Peanuts provide healthy fats and additional protein

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to enhance its nutritional value:

The sodium content may be high due to the use of soy sauce and chicken broth
The added sugar, although minimal, could be reduced or substituted with a natural sweetener like honey
The recipe relies on cornstarch for thickening, which is a refined carbohydrate

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content
Replace the granulated sugar with a small amount of honey or omit it altogether, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through
Instead of cornstarch, use arrowroot powder or a mixture of water and chia seeds to thicken the sauce, adding more fiber and nutrients
Increase the variety of vegetables used in the stir-fry, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms, to boost the dish's nutrient density
Serve the stir-fry over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil to introduce more vibrant flavors and antioxidants

Editor's Thoughts on This Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

The Szechuan chicken stir-fry recipe is a delightful combination of bold flavors and textures. The sauce strikes a perfect balance between savory, spicy, and tangy, elevating the dish to new heights. The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy peanuts create a harmonious medley of textures, while the aromatic ginger and garlic infuse the dish with depth. This recipe is a culinary masterpiece that promises to tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Whether served as a quick weeknight meal or as a star dish at a gathering, this Szechuan chicken stir-fry is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enhance Your Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce of the Szechuan chicken stir-fry.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection, adding a touch of smokiness to complement the bold flavors of the Szechuan chicken stir-fry.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, providing a sweet and juicy contrast to the spicy kick of the Szechuan chicken stir-fry.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: This spicy beef and broccoli stir-fry is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce. It's the perfect meal for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Mango Chicken Curry: Mango chicken curry is a sweet and savory dish that combines tender chicken, ripe mango, and aromatic spices. This flavorful curry is perfect served over steamed rice for a delicious and comforting meal.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light and refreshing dish that combines succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy, cheesy goodness with the earthy flavors of spinach and artichoke for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for dipping.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate the humble mushroom by stuffing it with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sophisticated appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Pie: Enjoy a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a warm, cinnamon-spiced filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Why trust this Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe:

This szechuan chicken stir-fry recipe offers an authentic taste of Szechuan cuisine with a perfect balance of flavors. The carefully crafted sauce combines soy sauce, sesame oil, and sambal oelek for a rich and spicy profile. The use of fresh ingredients such as ginger and garlic enhances the dish's aromatic appeal. The inclusion of bell peppers and snow peas adds a delightful crunch, while peanuts provide a satisfying texture. This recipe promises a delightful stir-fry experience that will surely impress your taste buds.

Want to share your own Szechuan Chicken Stir-Fry creation or discuss tips and variations? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section and join the conversation!

FAQ:

What is sambal oelek and can I substitute it with something else?

Sambal oelek is a spicy Indonesian chili paste made from crushed raw red chilies, vinegar, and salt. If you don't have sambal oelek, you can substitute it with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a similar spicy kick.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Just ensure that they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version of this dish. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce to make it completely vegetarian.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables and chicken ahead of time to save some prep work. However, I recommend cooking and assembling the stir-fry just before serving to ensure the best taste and texture.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference by reducing or increasing the amount of sambal oelek used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of sambal oelek or omit it altogether.