Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken, Asian-Style
Try this Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken, Asian-Style recipe.
Try this Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken, Asian-Style recipe.
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 4 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1 cup sliced yellow onion
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into 1-i
- 2 teaspoons minced green onion bottoms
- 10 dried red chiles
- 1 jalapeno stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced
- Carbohydrate 17.0797111090291 g
- Cholesterol 0.60000000050721 mg
- Fat 4.59234194471536 g
- Fiber 2.57659484244265 g
- Protein 3.97263301232811 g
- Saturated Fat 0.505929199316004 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (303g)
- Sodium 692.031636630053 mg
- Sugar 14.5031162665865 g
- Trans Fat 0.318358543131319 g
- Calories 114 calories
Step-by-step
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk to blend well, and add the chicken to the sauce. Toss to evenly coat the chicken and set aside for 15 to 20 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, stock, chili garlic sauce, and sugar. Stir to combine and set aside until ready to use.
- Place a wok over high heat and add the vegetable oil to the pan. Swirl the wok to be sure to coat well with the oil.
- Add the ginger, garlic, green onions, dried chilies, and jalapenos to the wok. Cook, stirring often until the garlic is fragrant and the chilies begin to brown, about 20 to 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken, bell peppers, and onions to the pan and stir-fry until the chicken is no longer pink, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add the sauce to the pan and bring to a boil, being sure to toss well in order to coat all the chicken and vegetables evenly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds, sesame oil, and cilantro into the pan and toss to combine.
- Remove from the heat and serve on a platter with steamed white rice.
Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken: A Culinary Adventure
The aroma alone is enough to transport you – a vibrant blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, hinting at the deliciousness to come. This Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary journey, a testament to the versatility of simple ingredients transformed into an extraordinary dish. As a busy working mom, I crave meals that are both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. This recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's become a weeknight staple in my home, a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress, even on the most hectic of days.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance. The sweetness of the ketchup and sugar cuts through the fiery heat of the chili garlic sauce and fresh chilies. The savory soy sauce adds depth, while the ginger and garlic provide a fragrant base. The chicken, tender and juicy, soaks up all these amazing flavors, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite. I love the satisfying crunch from the bell peppers and onions, which adds another layer of texture to this already incredible dish. The sesame seeds and oil add a delicate nutty flavor, and the fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous finish.
More than just a meal, it's a feeling. The act of cooking this dish, the satisfying sizzle of the chicken in the wok, the vibrant colors of the ingredients – it's all part of the experience. It's a reminder to slow down, appreciate the simple pleasures, and savor the moment. I often find myself sharing this recipe with friends and family, introducing them to the joy of creating something delicious and memorable. It's a dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating lasting memories around the table.
The preparation is surprisingly straightforward. The chicken marinates quickly, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. The stir-fry itself is fast-paced and exciting, a whirlwind of activity that culminates in a beautiful, fragrant dish. And the best part? The cleanup is minimal – perfect for a busy weeknight. I often double the recipe, knowing that leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it an even more efficient use of my time.
I've experimented with this recipe over the years, sometimes adding a splash of rice vinegar for extra tanginess, or substituting other vegetables depending on what's in season. Feel free to make it your own – add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level to your liking, or even try different types of meat. The possibilities are endless! But whatever you do, don't skip the sesame seeds and cilantro; they are the perfect finishing touch.
This Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken is more than just a dinner; it's a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, and a quick, delicious way to impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this delicious chicken dish with steamed white rice, or for a healthier option, try it with quinoa or brown rice. You can also add a side of steamed broccoli or your favorite Asian-inspired vegetable.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Marinating the Chicken: Don't skip the marinating step! It allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken.
Wok Hei: For a truly authentic taste, try to use a wok. The high heat and curved sides allow for even cooking and the development of that coveted "wok hei" – the smoky, slightly charred flavor characteristic of stir-fries.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce and dried chilies to control the spice level. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less and add more to taste.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. If possible, try to use freshly toasted sesame seeds for the best flavor.
This Sweet and Hot Pepper Chicken recipe is more than just a collection of instructions; it's a culinary invitation to experience the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure!
