Hunan Chicken Dish: A Spicy Delight You Need to Try

Hunan Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the world. Originating from the Hunan province in China, this dish is known for its bold flavors and spicy kick, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a medley of spices creates a delightful harmony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

What I love most about Hunan Chicken is its versatility; it can be served over rice or noodles, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The dish not only satisfies your hunger but also tantalizes your palate with its rich, savory sauce and the crunch of perfectly cooked vegetables. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Hunan Chicken is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or sherry
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons Hunan chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)

Marinating the Chicken

To start, I like to marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. This will help tenderize the chicken and give it a nice coating.
2. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated. I usually use my hands for this, but a spatula works too!
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit for a couple of hours will enhance the flavor even more.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, I prepare the vegetables. This step is quick and easy:

1. Slice the red and green bell peppers and onion into thin strips. I like to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Minced the garlic and ginger. I find that using a microplane for the ginger gives a nice fine texture that blends well into the dish.

Cooking the Chicken

Now that the chicken is marinated and the vegetables are prepped, it’s time to cook!

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. I like to use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. I usually cover it with foil to keep it warm.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

Next, I stir-fry the vegetables to bring out their flavors:

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. I love the vibrant colors and the aroma that fills the kitchen at this point!

Combining Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together:

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Stir in the Hunan chili paste, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chicken broth. This combination creates a deliciously spicy and tangy sauce.
3. Mix everything well, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Final Touches

Before serving, I like to add a few finishing touches:

1. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili paste!
2. Once satisfied with the flavor, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Garnish with

Conclusion:

In summary, this Hunan Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine with bold flavors and a delightful kick. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and that signature spicy sauce creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal, or even toss it into a wrap for a delicious lunch option. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it extra hot or with a hint of sweetness, this recipe can easily be tailored to your liking. I encourage you to give this Hunan Chicken a try and experience the explosion of flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!

Print