Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry: The Ultimate Stir-Fry Recipe
Introduction to Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
This Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful mix of vibrant vegetables and juicy chicken, all coated in a flavorful sauce that brings a kick to your dinner table. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe combines nutrition and taste, making it a favorite for families and busy individuals alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart.
A Personal Story Behind My Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry Journey
Growing up, stir-fry was a staple in our household. My mother would whip up colorful dishes packed with fresh vegetables and tender meat, all cooked in a sizzling wok. The aroma would fill the kitchen, drawing everyone to the dinner table. This Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry reminds me of those cherished family dinners, filled with laughter and love. Now, I enjoy sharing this recipe with my loved ones, hoping to create new memories around the dinner table for generations to come.
What Makes This Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its vibrant combination of bell peppers and onions, which add both color and crunch to the dish. The sauce, made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil, provides a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Plus, the addition of ginger and garlic gives it an aromatic kick. And let’s not forget how quick and easy it is to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights!
The Full Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g) chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 bell peppers (assorted colors), chopped
- 2 onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 knob ginger (1-2 inches), minced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, prepare the stir-fry sauce by combining brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. This sauce is what gives the dish its delicious flavor.
- After washing and patting the chicken dry with paper towels, season it with ground black pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and sliced onions, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
- Increase the heat to high, add the remaining olive oil, and cook the chicken in a single layer for 4-5 minutes on each side until it is no longer pink. Make sure to give the chicken space to sear properly.
- Return the sautéed bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the mixture and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to mix everything well.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. This adds a nice crunch and an appealing look to the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a filling and satisfying meal. For added flavor, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also modify the recipe by adding other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots, based on your preference. Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen bell peppers and onions can be used if you’re short on time. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I make it healthier?
You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute to make it healthier. Also, use less oil if desired.
What should I serve with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, or noodles are great sides. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 320
- Servings: 4
Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry
Equipment
- Skillet Use a non-stick skillet for best results.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 count bell peppers (assorted colors), chopped
- 2 count onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.75 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup soy sauce
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 knob ginger, minced (1-2 inches)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, prepare the stir-fry sauce by combining brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch.
- After washing and patting the chicken dry with paper towels, season it with ground black pepper on both sides.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and sliced onions, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
- Increase the heat to high, add the remaining olive oil, and cook the chicken in a single layer for 4-5 minutes on each side until it is no longer pink.
- Return the sautéed bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the mixture and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to mix everything well.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.