Hunan Chicken Recipe - Spicy and Flavorful Stir-Fry Dish

Hunan Chicken is a fiery and flavorful stir-fry dish originating from the Hunan Province of China. Known for its bold, spicy flavors, this dish incorporates tender chicken pieces with a variety of vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a deliciously spicy sauce. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or looking to add some excitement to your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for something bold and savory.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, minced
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons chili paste or chili sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
1/2 cup onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup carrots, julienned
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon dried red chilies (adjust to your spice level)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt

How to Make Hunan Chicken Recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the boneless chicken breasts into thin, bite-sized strips. Place the chicken in a bowl and mix it with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. This will marinate the chicken and give it a nice texture once cooked.

Step 2: Make the Hunan Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons of chili paste, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a little water to help thin the sauce. Stir well to blend the flavors and set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and allow it to heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken and stir-fry it until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Stir-fry them for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers, onions, and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to remain crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the vegetables are done, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the Hunan sauce and toss everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are well coated. Let everything simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
More Vegetables: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas for a more vibrant stir-fry.
Extra Heat: If you love a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili paste or add fresh sliced chilies.

Cooking Note

If you’re using fresh red chilies, adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance. Hunan cuisine is known for its spiciness, but feel free to modify the heat level to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Hunan Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach to balance out the heat of the dish.

Helpful Tips

Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch helps tenderize the meat and enhances the flavor.
Use a Wok: A wok provides even heat distribution and allows for quick stir-frying, which is key to getting the perfect texture on the chicken and vegetables.
Customize the Sauce: Adjust the ratio of hoisin sauce, chili paste, and sesame oil based on how savory or spicy you like your dish.

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FAQs

1. Can I make Hunan Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply stir-fry the vegetables, add the chicken, and pour in the sauce for a quick meal.

2. Is Hunan Chicken very spicy?

Yes, Hunan Chicken is typically quite spicy due to the use of chili paste and dried red chilies. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount of chili paste and skip the dried chilies.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make the dish completely gluten-free. Just ensure that all ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

4. Can I substitute other meats for chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or even pork, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Hunan Chicken is a quick and delicious stir-fry dish that packs a punch with its spicy and savory flavors. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe brings the bold, vibrant tastes of Hunan straight to your table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner when you’re craving something with a little extra heat.