| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 470 | 18g | 3g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 4g | 50g | 1.5g |
Today, we’re venturing out of my New England comfort zone and heading towards the rich and exciting world of Asian cuisine. We’re exploring a marvelous fusion dish that puts a fruity twist on a popular Asian specialty – our delightful Sichuan Pepper Chicken Stir Fry.
A Delicious Fusion of Flavors
The Sichuan Pepper Chicken Stir Fry is a magnificent representation of eastern culinary aesthetics, brought to life through an array of colorful ingredients. Its charm starts with robust Sichuan peppercorns which give a unique, tingly, and slightly spicy flavor, and elevated by the subtle heat of chili flakes. Adding to this, the inclusion of aromatic garlic and ginger work in tandem to create a fragrant backdrop for our star protein, the chicken.
What makes this recipe standout from regular Asian stir fries, however, is the refreshing addition of pineapple. These juicy chunks of fruit not only add a vibrant pop of color but also lend an unexpected burst of tangy sweetness which beautifully contrasts with the spicy and savory flavors of the dish.
Healthful and Satisfying
But it’s not just the taste of this dish that’s impressive—it’s a real winner when it comes to health benefits too. This stir fry is high in protein, thanks to the chicken, and coupled with nutritious veggies like bell peppers and onions, it packs a good dose of vitamins and fiber. The cashews also contribute protein as well as healthy fats and essential minerals. Pineapple, beyond its tangy flavor, brings a host of benefits such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and providing a wealth of antioxidants.
If you’re a fan of popular Chinese dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Sweet and Sour Chicken, you’ll likely find this Sichuan Pepper Chicken Stir Fry a delightful and unique twist. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a bowl of steamed rice or alongside other Asian favorites like vegetable spring rolls or a simple egg fried rice.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend dinner party or looking for a quick fix for your weekday dinner, this Sichuan Pepper Chicken stir fry has got you covered. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 1 teaspoon chilli flakes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 red bell peppers, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup cashews
- 6 stalks green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Salt to taste
Method
Step One
First, heat a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the Sichuan peppercorns and toast until fragrant. Once toasted, use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the peppercorns. Set aside.
Step Two
In the same wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with the ground Sichuan peppercorns, chilli flakes, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir fry for a minute or until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
Step Four
Add the chopped onion and the red and green bell peppers to the skillet. Stir fry for a few minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step Five
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks and cashews, stir to combine everything. Cook for a couple of minutes until the chicken is fully done.
Step Six
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch-water mixture. Pour this sauce into the skillet, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
Step Seven
Adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary. Scatter the chopped green onions over the stir fry just before serving.
Step Eight
Delicious Sichuan Pepper Chicken Stir Fry is ready to enjoy! Serve it over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
