Description

Chongqing Spicy Chicken, or La Zi Ji, is a bold and fiery Sichuan dish featuring crispy chicken stir-fried with an abundance of dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. This authentic recipe delivers the perfect mala flavor—spicy, numbing, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for spice lovers craving restaurant-quality Sichuan cuisine at home!

Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
Coating Mix:
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper powder
- 1 tsp ground Sichuan peppercorns
- 3/4 tsp salt
For Stir-Frying:
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 tsp whole Sichuan peppercorns
- 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
- 1 cup dried red Sichuan chili peppers (whole or halved, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 green onions, white and green parts separated and chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, plus more for garnish

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken with Shaoxing wine and soy sauce. Marinate for 10–15 minutes.

2. Coat the Chicken

In a ziplock bag, mix cornstarch, cayenne pepper, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and salt.
Add marinated chicken, seal, and shake to coat evenly.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes without stirring.
Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until crispy and golden. Remove and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

In the same wok, toast whole Sichuan peppercorns over medium-low heat for 1–2 minutes.
Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for another minute.

5. Add Chilies & Combine

Stir in dried chilies and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Return cooked chicken to wok, add sugar, and mix well. Stir-fry for 2 more minutes.

6. Finish & Serve

Add chopped green onion whites and cilantro (if using), then toss to combine.
Transfer to a plate, garnish with sesame seeds and green onion greens. Serve hot.

Notes

Spice Level: Adjust chili and Sichuan peppercorn amounts to preference.
Extra Crispy: Double-fry the chicken for an ultra-crispy texture.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinese (Sichuan)

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 kcal per serving