Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, minced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy and aromatic chicken stir fry, featuring the unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-17T00:46:18.912Z

This Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings the authentic taste of China right to your kitchen. The fragrant spices combined with tender chicken create an unforgettable meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spice and flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Packed with vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients

      

Discover the Flavor Profile

Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold and complex flavors, and this Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry is a perfect representation of that legacy. The unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns pairs beautifully with the savory notes of soy sauce and the tanginess of rice vinegar. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that excites the palate and leaves you craving more.

The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant array of colors to your dish. This stir fry is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds, making it an excellent choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

One of the best aspects of this Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry is how quickly it comes together. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

The stir-frying technique allows you to cook the chicken and vegetables quickly while preserving their texture and nutrients. This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in the flavors, ensuring that every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

For the stir fry

500g chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili paste (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before starting the stir fry.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Toast the Sichuan Peppercorns

In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the Sichuan peppercorns and toast for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir Fry the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir fry until it's cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and onion. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the pan, add chili paste if using, and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot with rice.

Enjoy your delicious Sichuan Peppercorn Chicken Stir Fry!

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure that the chicken stays tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it during the stir-frying process. It should be cooked through but still moist. The key is to cook it in small batches if necessary, allowing for even cooking and a nice sear on the meat.

When toasting the Sichuan peppercorns, keep a close eye on them. They can burn quickly and turn bitter if left unattended. The goal is to release their fragrant oils, which adds a wonderful depth to your stir fry.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Additionally, incorporating other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli can enhance the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili paste or omit it altogether. The dish will still be delicious, thanks to the aromatic and zesty flavors of the Sichuan peppercorns and fresh ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, beef, or shrimp.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.

→ Is Sichuan peppercorn spicy?

Sichuan peppercorns are not spicy in the same way as chili peppers; they provide a unique numbing sensation and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with tofu and use a vegetarian soy sauce.