Description

Experience the bold, fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine with Chongqing Spicy Chicken (La Zi Ji)! Crispy, tender chicken is stir-fried with aromatic Sichuan peppercorns and an abundance of dried chili peppers, creating the signature mala (numbing and spicy) sensation. This authentic Chinese dish is perfect for spice lovers looking for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (or dry sherry)
1 tbsp light soy sauce

For the Coating:

¼ cup cornstarch
1 tsp cayenne pepper powder
1 tsp ground Sichuan peppercorns
¾ tsp salt

For Stir-Frying:

¼ to ⅓ cup peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
2 tsp whole Sichuan peppercorns
5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
1 cup dried red Sichuan chili peppers (whole or chopped)
½ tsp sugar
2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, mix chicken pieces with Shaoxing rice wine and soy sauce.
Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Coating

In a large ziplock bag, mix cornstarch, cayenne pepper powder, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and salt.
Add marinated chicken, seal the bag, and shake to coat evenly.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat peanut oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
Add coated chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes without stirring.
Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Remove and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

In the same wok, toast whole Sichuan peppercorns over medium-low heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add sliced garlic and minced ginger, stir-frying for another 1 minute.

5. Add Chilies and Chicken

Stir in dried red chili peppers and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the wok, add sugar, and stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes.

6. Serve & Garnish

Toss in chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Less Spicy: Reduce dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns for a milder taste.
Extra Crispy Chicken: Double-fry the chicken pieces for even more crunch.
Vegetarian Option: Use crispy tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.
Nutty Twist: Add roasted peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinese (Sichuan)

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 kcal per serving