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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and satisfying textures, this Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need in your weeknight rotation. Tender, juicy chicken fillets coated in a perfectly balanced spicy sauce create a vibrant dance of heat, sweetness, and tang, while crisp vegetables add irresistible color and crunch. This recipe comes together quickly, making it a fantastic go-to when you want something exciting but fuss-free in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe, it’s going to become a beloved staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe plays a crucial role, combining to create a symphony of flavor and texture that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. From the tender chicken fillets to the sharp bite of fresh ginger and the fiery kick of chili, these ingredients are easy to find and straightforward to work with.
- Chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Thinly sliced fillets cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, warm spiciness that complements the heat.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Creates a light coating that seals in the chicken’s juices and thickens the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for high-heat stir frying without altering flavors.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers an aromatic punch essential for authentic stir-fry character.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Brings brightness and a warm, spicy undertone.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory richness to the sauce base.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Offers salty depth and umami complexity.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances heat with a gentle touch of sweetness.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Introduces a subtle tang to brighten the dish.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Gives the stir-fry its signature spicy kick – adjust to your heat preference.
- Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon): Enhances the fiery notes without overwhelming.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a rich, nutty fragrance for that final flavor flourish.
- Onion (1 small, sliced): Provides sweetness and texture contrast when sautéed.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Injects bright color and a mild crunch.
- Green onions (2, chopped): Fresh garnish that adds a zesty finish.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Tiny bursts of nuttiness and visual appeal.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your thinly sliced chicken fillets with salt and black pepper, then toss them in cornstarch until they are lightly coated. This coating will help lock in moisture and give the chicken a slightly crispy exterior when cooked, laying the perfect foundation for the stir-fry.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest while you prepare the veggies and sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic, fresh ginger, and sliced onion. Sauté these aromatics for about one minute until they release their wonderful fragrance. Then add the red bell pepper slices and cook for an additional two minutes to retain some crunch and color vibrancy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil. This combination is the heart of your Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe – a dynamic blend of salty, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring it to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken fillets to the pan, letting them soak in the simmering sauce for 3 to 5 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken and thoroughly embrace the chicken and veggies for that unforgettable bite.
Step 6: Finish with Garnishes
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the dish. These simple touches add fresh flavor and a lovely crunch, pulling all the elements of the dish together beautifully.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Bright green onions and toasted sesame seeds are your go-to garnish, lending an inviting aroma and delicate texture contrast. Feel free to add a wedge of lime on the side for an optional zesty boost that complements the spicy notes amazingly well.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fragrant basmati, or even simple egg noodles. The neutral base will soak up that luscious sauce, making every forkful a delight. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or lightly sautéed greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this stir-fry over a bed of cauliflower rice to keep things low-carb but equally tasty. Another idea is to wrap the chicken and veggies inside warm lettuce leaves for an interactive and crunchy handheld meal that everyone will love at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining the flavors and texture so you can enjoy a quick and delicious meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled stir-fry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. Properly stored, it will remain delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and avoid drying out the sauce. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, a quick microwave session on medium power works well for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
How can I reduce the heat if I’m sensitive to spice?
Simply cut back on the sriracha and red pepper flakes or skip them altogether. You can add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika for mild warmth without the fiery kick, preserving the dish’s complexity.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe is suitable for gluten-free diets. Always double-check ingredient labels to be sure.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can slice and marinate the chicken a few hours ahead of time and even chop the vegetables in advance. Just cook everything fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the best flavors and texture.
What can I substitute for honey if I don’t have any on hand?
Maple syrup or agave nectar work wonderfully as substitutes for honey and will provide a similar natural sweetness that balances the spicy sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm, flavorful hug on a plate. It’s quick, vibrant, and packed with layers of taste that make it a satisfying meal every time. Whether you’re a busy cook looking for a simple yet impressive dinner or someone who loves a little heat, this recipe delivers in every way. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes your new favorite go-to for weeknight dinners or anytime you want to spice things up.
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Spicy Chicken Fillet Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spicy Chicken Fillet recipe features tender chicken breasts coated lightly in cornstarch and pan-fried to a golden brown, then tossed in a vibrant, flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, soy, honey, and a kick of sriracha. Quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts, sliced into thin fillets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Sauce and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Garnish
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Season and coat chicken: Season the chicken fillets evenly with salt and black pepper, then toss the fillets with cornstarch until they are lightly coated. This step ensures a slight crust and helps thicken the sauce later.
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onion. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes to soften slightly.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Simmer with chicken: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring it to a simmer. Return the chicken fillets to the pan and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Serve the spicy chicken fillets hot, ideally with steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sriracha to make the dish more or less spicy according to your preference.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce if you need the dish to be gluten-free.
- Serve with jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles for a complete and balanced meal.
- For added texture, you can toast the sesame seeds before garnishing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
