If you are craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s packed with a punch of heat and colorful veggies, this Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It balances tender chicken pieces with crispy bell peppers, all brought together by a spicy, savory sauce that’s quick to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or want a dish that’s sure to impress friends, this recipe is a go-to favorite that brings bold flavors and comforting rice in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish uses simple, everyday ingredients that are essential for layering texture, flavor, and color. Each component plays a key role, from the juicy chicken delivering protein, to the bell peppers adding sweetness and crunch, and the chili flakes providing that signature spicy kick.
- Chicken breast: Cut into chunks for quick, even cooking and tender bites throughout the stir-fry.
- Olive or sesame oil: Provides a fragrant base for sautéing and enhances the dish’s overall richness without overpowering.
- Garlic (minced): Adds a deep, aromatic flavor that infuses the entire stir-fry with warmth.
- Onion slices: Introduce sweetness and slight crunch while softening into the sauce beautifully.
- Green and red bell peppers (sliced): These bring vibrant color and a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the heat.
- Soy sauce: Delivers savory umami and depth, enriching the stir-fry with its salty complexity.
- Chili flakes or crushed red pepper: The secret ingredient that provides the perfect spicy edge without overwhelming the palate.
- Cornstarch slurry: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables.
- Steamed basmati or jasmine rice: The fluffy, aromatic base that soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and a mild herbal note that brightens the dish.
How to Make Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating your choice of olive or sesame oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil needs to be hot enough to sear the chicken properly, giving it that irresistible golden-brown crust that locks in juiciness.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion
Add minced garlic and onion slices to the hot oil, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This step creates the aromatic foundation that makes the stir-fry so irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Chunks
Once your aromatics have softened, toss in the chicken pieces. Spread them out so they can brown evenly. Cook until each chunk is golden and cooked through, ensuring a tender texture combined with a savory crust.
Step 4: Add Bell Peppers
Stir in the green and red bell peppers next, letting them cook just until they’re tender yet still retain a bit of their natural crunch. This adds both a sweet flavor contrast and a lovely burst of color to the dish.
Step 5: Season and Thicken the Sauce
Pour the soy sauce over the chicken and vegetables, then sprinkle in the chili flakes or crushed red pepper to bring the heat. Finally, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, making sure every ingredient is beautifully coated in a glossy, flavorful glaze.
Step 6: Serve Hot over Rice
Pile the spicy pepper chicken stir-fry generously over steamed basmati or jasmine rice. This comforting pairing balances the spicy and savory notes perfectly, turning every spoonful into a satisfying experience.
How to Serve Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only livens up the plate visually but also adds a subtle herbal note that refreshes the palate between spicy bites.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving a simple cucumber salad or some steamed broccoli on the side. The coolness and mild flavors of these sides contrast delightfully with the heat of the stir-fry.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this stir-fry inside hollowed bell peppers as edible bowls for a striking presentation. Alternatively, plate it over crispy fried rice cakes for a fun texture twist that will surely wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spicy pepper chicken stir-fry keeps superbly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice separate if possible to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This dish freezes well too. Place cooled portions of the stir-fry in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other meats in this Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is ideal for its tenderness and cooking speed, you can substitute with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat level?
The heat is moderate, coming from chili flakes that you can easily scale up or down depending on your spice tolerance. For milder versions, use less chili or swap for sweet paprika.
What type of rice works best with the stir-fry?
Basmati and jasmine rice both work beautifully due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but it will add a chewier bite.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?
Yes! You can chop vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time to streamline the cooking process, making dinner ready in under 20 minutes on busy nights.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe is a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite. Its harmonious blend of spicy heat, savory sauce, and fresh veggies keeps every bite exciting. Give it a try and watch it disappear from your dinner table with smiles all around!
Print
Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Spicy Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast chunks cooked with vibrant bell peppers, garlic, and a spicy soy-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with steamed basmati or jasmine rice and is garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp chili flakes or crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water)
Serving
- 3 cups steamed basmati or jasmine rice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive or sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics and chicken.
- Sauté garlic and onion: Add the minced garlic and sliced onions to the hot oil, cooking until they release their fragrance and start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook chicken: Add the chicken breast chunks to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Add bell peppers: Stir in the sliced green and red bell peppers, cooking them until they become slightly tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine sauce and thicken: Pour in the soy sauce, sprinkle the chili flakes or crushed red pepper according to your spice preference, and stir well. Then slowly add the cornstarch slurry while stirring to thicken the sauce evenly throughout the stir-fry.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy pepper chicken stir-fry over warm steamed basmati or jasmine rice and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your heat tolerance.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Fresh parsley adds freshness but can be substituted with cilantro if preferred.
- Make cornstarch slurry fresh to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
