This Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken is a colorful dish that’s bursting with flavor! It combines tender chicken with crunchy bell peppers and a zesty sauce that adds a nice kick. Yum!
I love making this dish because it’s quick and easy! Plus, the vibrant colors make it feel like a fiesta on my dinner plate! 🎉 Serve it over rice for a complete meal—delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The main protein in this dish is chicken breast, which is lean and cooks quickly. If you want something different, you could use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors adds both taste and visual appeal. Use any combination of red, green, or yellow. If fresh isn’t available, try frozen bell peppers; they’ll hold up nicely too.
Garlic & Ginger: Both ingredients are essential for that aromatic base. Fresh is best, but if you’re in a pinch, use powdered garlic and ginger. Just remember, use less as they are stronger!
Dried Red Chilies: These provide heat. Adjust the number to your spice tolerance. If you can’t find them, use crushed red pepper flakes or even fresh chilies. Just start with a small amount and add to taste.
Oyster Sauce: It adds a nice umami flavor, but if it’s not available, soy sauce can work as a substitute. If you need it to be vegetarian, consider using mushroom sauce instead.
How Do I Properly Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating chicken is key to locking in flavor and ensuring it stays tender. Since this recipe includes a mix of sauces, here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This blend not only adds flavor but also helps in browning the chicken.
- Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well-coated with the marinade. The cornstarch will create a nice coating while it cooks.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating it longer (up to a few hours) in the fridge can really enhance the flavor.
How to Make Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2-3 dried red chilies (or to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking. Including marinating time, you’ll need around 45 minutes in total, with 30 minutes for the chicken to soak up those delicious flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, add the chicken pieces. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), chili sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak in the flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, if needed, add a little more oil. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Sauté them for a minute or two until they become fragrant and flavorful.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry these for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften but still remain a bit crisp.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the veggies. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well mixed and coated with the tasty garlic and ginger.
6. Season and Finish:
Check the seasoning and add salt and more chili sauce if you want it spicier. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top as a fresh garnish. Serve this spicy bell pepper chicken hot, and enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles for a wonderful meal!
Can I Substitute Chicken Breast with Another Type of Protein?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier texture, or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option. If using tofu, ensure it’s firm and press it to remove excess moisture before marinating for the best results.
What Should I Do if I Can’t Find Dried Red Chilies?
No problem! You can use fresh red chillies instead, adjusting the quantity based on your heat preference. Alternatively, red pepper flakes or hot sauce can also be used to add spice; start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist, and heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it in the fridge for deeper flavor. Just remember to sauté the chicken and veggies fresh for serving to retain their texture and maximize flavor!
