If you’re craving a dish that masterfully balances heat with savory richness, the Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe will become your new go-to. This vibrant Asian-inspired stir-fry combines tender chicken pieces with a perfectly spiced blend of garlic, chili, and umami-packed sauces. Each bite bursts with flavor and a satisfying kick that’s simply irresistible, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting familiar with these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe. Each component plays a special role: from the juicy chicken providing hearty protein, to the fragrant garlic and ginger giving depth and warmth, to the chili garlic sauce bringing just the right amount of heat.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for more juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, all cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking that ensures a crisp, golden exterior.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced: Adds a zesty, slightly peppery note that brightens the dish instantly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s aromatic punch is a hallmark of this recipe, deepening the flavor complexity.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Brings salty umami that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and rich depth enhancing the savory profile.
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce: The star of the show for heat and bold flavor; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that balances the richness beautifully.
- 1 tsp sugar: A small touch to round out and mellow the sauce flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for gentle warmth and complexity.
- 2 green onions, sliced: For fresh color and a crisp bite as garnish.
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a slight nuttiness and extra visual appeal to the finished dish.
How to Make Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a beautiful golden crust. Turn occasionally, cooking for about 5 to 6 minutes until they are cooked through and tender. Then, transfer the chicken out and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if the pan looks dry. Immediately add your minced ginger and garlic. The moment they hit the pan, you’ll notice an incredible aroma emerging — sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let them burn.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring flavor magic into the dish. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Mix everything well and let the sauce simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked chicken back to the pan, tossing it thoroughly in the glossy sauce to coat every piece evenly. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes, giving the chicken time to soak up the flavors and making sure everything is heated through perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top before serving. These finishing touches add delightful texture, color, and a fresh brightness that elevate the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
While the green onions and sesame seeds are classic garnishes, feel free to get creative with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or thinly sliced red chilies for a pop of color and an extra kick. These small details can transform the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati to soak up all the flavorful sauce. If you want to switch things up, try serving it alongside stir-fried noodles or a fresh Asian salad for a lighter but equally delicious combination.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style meal, serve the chicken in a large bowl with bowls of rice and sides spread around for sharing. Alternatively, use the chicken as a filling for lettuce wraps or stuff it into warm pita bread for a fusion twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The flavors will develop even more as they rest, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. To freeze, place cooled Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing its vibrant flavors.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as reheating slowly helps maintain the chicken’s tender texture and keeps the sauce luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine, though thighs will deliver a bit more moisture and flavor. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them to keep the chicken juicy.
How spicy is the Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe?
The heat level is moderate and adjustable. The chili garlic sauce provides a nice kick, but you can increase or decrease the amount based on your preference or add crushed red pepper for extra spice.
Can I substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp?
Yes! This recipe adapts beautifully to tofu or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times—shrimp cooks very quickly, and tofu should be pan-fried to get a crispy exterior before adding the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap soy sauce for tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative and double-check the oyster sauce ingredients or use a gluten-free version.
What can I do to make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze, you can add a slurry of cornstarch with a little water to the sauce during the simmering stage. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know all the tricks to create the perfect Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the kitchen. This dish is not only full of exciting flavors but also straightforward enough to make anytime you want a comforting and vibrant meal. I promise, once you try it, this recipe will have a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
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Chili Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
This Chili Garlic Chicken recipe is a flavorful, spicy Asian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces tossed in a savory and garlicky sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines the heat of chili garlic sauce with the umami of soy and oyster sauces, garnished with fresh green onions and optional sesame seeds. Serve it hot over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the minced ginger and garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1–2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce evenly. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or increase the amount of chili garlic sauce.
- This recipe works great with tofu or shrimp as alternative protein options.
- Vegetarian modification: Use tofu instead of chicken and ensure oyster sauce is replaced with a vegetarian alternative.
- Can be prepared gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
