Are you looking for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Chinese cuisine? Look no further! This collection of 18 mouth-watering Szechuan chicken delight recipes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Chengdu, China. From classic stir-fries to innovative fusion dishes, these recipes showcase the bold and aromatic flavors of Szechuan cooking.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Szechuan chicken, exploring a variety of textures and temperatures that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and golden, savory and umami, or spicy and tangy, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Let’s start our culinary journey with some of the most popular Szechuan chicken recipes out there…
Schezuan Chicken Stir Fry with Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the spicy kick of Szechuan pepper with the sweetness of bell peppers and the savory flavor of chicken. A quick and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan pepper, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to the wok and stir in Szechuan pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Schezuan Chicken with Honey Glaze
A flavorful twist on traditional Chinese cooking, this crispy chicken dish is elevated by a sweet and sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute.
7. Add honey to the pan and stir until caramelized.
8. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the honey glaze.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
10. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Noodles with Garlic Sauce
This recipe combines the spicy kick of Szechuan peppers with the comfort of a savory garlic sauce, all wrapped up in a deliciously chewy noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked noodles (rice noodles or soba work well)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Stir in soy sauce, Szechuan peppercorns, and cornstarch mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to coat with the garlic sauce.
6. Serve chicken over noodles and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Dumplings with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with these tender chicken dumplings served with a spicy dipping sauce. This recipe combines the comfort of homemade pasta with the excitement of Asian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground chicken
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, cornstarch, Szechuan peppercorns, and salt.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Fry dumplings in hot oil until golden brown, about 5 minutes per batch.
5. Serve with Spicy Dipping Sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Fried Rice with Scallions
This spicy and savory dish is a Chinese-American classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the bold heat of Szechuan peppercorns and the crunch of fresh scallions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– 2 green scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken, rice, soy sauce, and salt. Stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
5. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors with these Szechuan chicken skewers, served with a creamy peanut sauce. A fusion of Asian-inspired spices and a hint of heat make this dish a must-try for any food enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve with peanut sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Hoisin
Szechuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Hoisin Sauce Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these Szechuan chicken lettuce wraps combine spicy and savory elements with the crunch of fresh lettuce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 lettuce leaves
• Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch, and garlic.
2. Add the chicken and toss to coat.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
5. Stir in Szechuan peppercorns, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble the wraps by placing a portion of the chicken mixture onto a lettuce leaf and top with scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Tacos with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your taco game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the spicy kick of Szechuan chicken with the creamy richness of Sriracha mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 8-10 tacos shells
– Sriracha mayo (see below for recipe)
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and scallions for garnish
Sriracha Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch.
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
4. Assemble tacos by placing cooked chicken onto a shell, followed by mixed greens, and topping with Sriracha mayo.
5. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, and scallions.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Pizza with Chili Flakes
This Szechuan chicken pizza combines the flavors of China with a spicy kick, all on top of a crispy crust. The perfect fusion of Asian-inspired ingredients and classic pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup Szechuan sauce (or substitute)
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread Szechuan sauce over the dough, leaving a small border.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and chicken breast evenly over the sauce.
5. Add chili flakes on top of the chicken.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Bao Buns with Pickled Vegetables
Elevate your sandwich game with these flavorful and refreshing Szechuan chicken bao buns, topped with a tangy pickled vegetable slaw. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 bao buns (steamed or store-bought)
– Pickled Vegetable Slaw (see below)
Pickled Vegetable Slaw:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, toasted Szechuan peppercorns, and garlic. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest.
3. Slice bao buns in half and toast if desired. Assemble with grilled chicken, Pickled Vegetable Slaw, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the perfect balance of spicy and sweet with this easy-to-make recipe for Schezuan Chicken Spring Rolls served with a tangy Sweet Chili Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Schezuan sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filling ingredients: shredded carrots, bean sprouts, chopped scallions, and sliced mushrooms
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, Schezuan sauce, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Prepare filling by combining cooked chicken mixture with shredded carrots, bean sprouts, chopped scallions, and sliced mushrooms.
5. Assemble spring rolls by placing about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper, then folding and sealing the edges.
6. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce (recipe below).
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Combine ingredients in a bowl and serve with spring rolls.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, including preparation and frying time.
Schezuan Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
This spicy and savory curry combines the bold flavors of Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes with tender chicken and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili flakes; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer curry for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Pasta with Roasted Peppers
Szechuan Chicken Pasta with Roasted Peppers Recipe
Summary:
This Szechuan-inspired pasta dish combines the spicy and savory flavors of China’s Sichuan province with the comfort of roasted peppers. A quick and easy meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground Szechuan peppercorns
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss peppers with oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add garlic, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and roasted peppers to the pan. Toss everything together until well coated with the Szechuan-inspired sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Schezuan Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your slider game with this spicy and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of Szechuan chicken with creamy coleslaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Szechuan pepper paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8 slider buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together Szechuan pepper paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders with fried chicken, coleslaw, scallions, and sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Wings with Sesame Seeds
Spice up your game-day gatherings with this bold and savory recipe that combines the flavors of Szechuan pepper, garlic, and sesame seeds with crispy chicken wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Szechuan pepper, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Remove wings from marinade and place on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the wings during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Salad with Mango Dressing
A spicy and sweet fusion of flavors, this Szechuan chicken salad combines the boldness of peanuts and chili flakes with the freshness of mango and cilantro. A perfect blend for a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 2 tbsp Szechuan sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup mango puree (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cilantro, and peanuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Stir in mango puree and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Note: For mango puree, blend 1 ripe mango with 2 tbsp water or use store-bought mango puree.
Schezuan Chicken Potstickers with Soy Dip
Savor the bold flavors of China with these crispy potstickers filled with spicy chicken and served with a creamy soy dip. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/4 cup Szechuan sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Soy dip ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center. Fold into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a seal.
4. Cook potstickers for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve with soy dip (mix all ingredients in a bowl). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Schezuan Chicken Burger with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this bold and spicy Szechuan chicken patty, topped with creamy aioli and crunchy slaw. This Asian-inspired twist on the classic burger is sure to please even the most adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
– Crunchy slaw (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, Szechuan peppercorns, scallions, and breadcrumbs. Form into 4 patties.
3. Grill burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble burgers with Spicy Aioli and crunchy slaw.
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering Szechuan chicken recipes! From classic stir-fries and noodle dishes to innovative tacos and pizza creations, this collection has something for everyone. Try crispy Szechuan chicken with honey glaze, spicy dumplings with garlic sauce, or savory bao buns with pickled vegetables. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or tender textures, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, heat things up in the kitchen and enjoy a culinary adventure that’s full of flavor and excitement!
