Spicy Chicken Stirfry

Name: Spicy Chicken Stirfry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons chili oil (such as Mongolian Fire oil), divided; 3 tablespoons soy sauce, divided; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional); ¼ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper; 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon mirin (Japanese sweet wine); ½ teaspoon granulated garlic; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; salt to taste; 2 tablespoons cooking oil, divided; ½ cup sliced shallot; 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 teaspoon chicken base; ½ cup water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

By Olivia

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Quick Benefits

Spicy Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, crisp green beans, and a bold, spicy sauce. This stir-fry is easy to make, packed with protein, and perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s versatile and pairs well with rice, noodles, or even a light salad for a lower-carb option.

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious stir-fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chili Oil: Adds a rich, spicy kick.
Soy Sauce: Provides a deep umami flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but enhances the spice level.
White Pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Mirin: A slightly sweet Japanese rice wine that balances the flavors.
Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics that enhance the dish.
Shallots: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
Fresh Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, providing a crunchy texture.
Chicken Base: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for the perfect consistency.
Sesame Seeds: A nutty garnish for added texture and flavor.

Preparation Steps

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of chili oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and white pepper. Toss in the chicken pieces and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: Mix the remaining chili oil, soy sauce, mirin, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and shallots. Stir-fry for about 8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
Cook the Green Beans: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet and stir-fry the green beans until they turn bright green, about 1 minute.
Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and shallots to the skillet, stir for about 3 minutes to combine.
Thicken the Sauce: Mix chicken base with water and stir in cornstarch to form a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pan while stirring quickly to thicken the sauce.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Health Benefits

High in Protein: With 48g of protein per serving, this dish supports muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Vitamins: Green beans provide fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Low in Carbs: A great meal for those looking for a balanced, low-carb option.
Healthy Fats: Contains heart-healthy fats from chili oil and sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic pairing.
Try it with rice noodles or soba noodles for a different texture.
Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or kimchi for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with a side of miso soup for a complete meal.

Creative Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
Extra Crunch: Add cashews or peanuts for a nutty bite.
Milder Version: Reduce the chili oil and red pepper flakes for a less spicy option.
Teriyaki Twist: Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter profile.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth.
Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tips

Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Use High Heat: Stir-frying at high heat locks in flavors and keeps the vegetables crisp.
Don’t Overcook Green Beans: A quick stir-fry keeps them vibrant and crunchy.
Adjust Spice Levels: Control the heat by modifying the amount of chili oil and red pepper flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Fresh green beans work best, but if using frozen, blanch them quickly before stir-frying.

What can I substitute for mirin?

Use a mix of rice vinegar and a teaspoon of honey or sugar.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Is this dish meal-prep friendly?

Yes! Cook in advance and store in portioned containers for easy lunches.

Enjoy this Spicy Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry, a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!