Chilli chicken stir-fry

Chilli chicken stir-fry is a quick and spicy dish featuring tender chicken and vibrant vegetables tossed in a rich sauce. The blend of peanut oil, sesame oil, and bold sauces creates a deeply flavoured meal perfect for busy weeknights.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp peanut oil
1 tsp sesame oil
1 onion
2 carrots
2 red hot chili peppers
4 chicken breasts
2 garlic cloves
1 red pepper
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce

Chilli chicken stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, this recipe delivers a spicy kick thanks to the red hot chili peppers. The combination of peanut oil, sesame oil, oyster sauce, and soy sauce creates a rich and savory sauce that coats each bite perfectly. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a delicious meal in no time.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the onion and red bell pepper, julienne the carrots, thinly slice the red hot chili peppers, and mince the garlic.
- Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

2. Heat the Oils:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the peanut oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat until hot.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Add the diced chicken to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, julienned carrots, and sliced red hot chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

5. Add the Garlic and Bell Pepper:
- Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper begins to soften.

6. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce and soy sauce. Toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the sauce.

7. Cook and Serve:
- Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

8. Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your spicy chilli chicken stir-fry with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

In conclusion, chilli chicken stir-fry is a delicious and satisfying dish that you can whip up quickly and easily. The balance of spice from the chili peppers and the savory notes of the sauces make this a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the bold flavors and the delightful crunch of the vegetables in every bite!

Chilli chicken stir-fry FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftovers of chilli chicken stir-fry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and microwave or stir-fry until heated through.

How can I adjust the heat level of this stir-fry?

To reduce the heat, use fewer or milder chili peppers and consider replacing red hot chili peppers with bell peppers. To increase the spiciness, add more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.

What pan size is recommended for making chilli chicken stir-fry?

A large skillet or wok is best for stir-frying as it provides ample space for the ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding. A pan measuring at least 12 inches in diameter is recommended.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the stir-fry gluten-free, substitute the oyster sauce and soy sauce with gluten-free versions, such as tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

What can I use as a substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, and adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure it is heated through.

Tips:

- Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.

- Cut the chicken breasts into thin, uniform slices for even cooking.

- Adjust the number of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

- Cook the vegetables to your desired level of crispness; some people prefer them slightly crunchy while others like them more tender.

- Ensure the wok or pan is hot before adding the oils to prevent sticking.

- Stir the chicken constantly to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs maximum flavor from the sauces.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.16g
Sugar 4.95g
Fat 8g

Chilli chicken stir-fry