Recipes

Szechuan Chicken

December 26, 2024
christian

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Szechuan Chicken is a bold and spicy dish that originates from the Sichuan province of China. Known for its vibrant flavors and unique heat, this recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a fragrant sauce that features a blend of Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, and chili. Perfect for those who love a little kick in their meals, Szechuan Chicken is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own delicious Szechuan Chicken at home!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns
  • 3-4 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Szechuan Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce. Set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add Szechuan peppercorns and dried red chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.
  5. Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the Szechuan sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve hot over cooked rice.

FAQs

What is Szechuan Chicken?

Szechuan Chicken is a spicy stir-fry dish from the Sichuan province of China, characterized by its bold flavors and use of Szechuan peppercorns, which provide a unique numbing heat.

Can I make Szechuan Chicken less spicy?

Yes! You can reduce the number of dried red chilies or omit them altogether. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of Szechuan peppercorns to suit your taste.

What can I serve with Szechuan Chicken?

Szechuan Chicken is best served with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also pair it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu, shrimp, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

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