Experience the explosive flavors of Szechuan with this vibrant and fiery chicken dish. Known as Chong Qing Lazi Ji, this recipe delivers an authentic taste of China's culinary heartland. Prepare for a thrilling dance of heat and savory delight!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
Carbohydrate
27 g
Cholesterol
35 mg
Fiber
7 g
Protein
16 g
Saturated Fat
3 g
Sodium
807 mg
Sugar
2 g
Fat
20 g
Unsaturated Fat
0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
In a bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of cooking wine and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the chicken cubes and stir to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 2-3 minutes. (Time: 2-3 minutes)
02
Step
Place the marinated chicken in a large, sealable plastic bag. Add the cornstarch and shake well, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. If the chicken appears wet, add a little more cornstarch. (Time: 2 minutes)
03
Step
Heat the peanut oil in a wok or large, heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the wok. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy around the edges, about 7-10 minutes. (Time: 7-10 minutes)
04
Step
Remove the fried chicken with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the peanut oil in the wok, discarding the rest. (Time: 2 minutes)
05
Step
Reheat the reserved oil in the wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and julienned green onions. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute. (Time: 1 minute)
06
Step
Add the green chilies, chopped dried red chilies, and Szechuan peppercorns to the wok. Continue to stir-fry for another 20 seconds, allowing the aromas to bloom. (Time: 20 seconds)
07
Step
Return the fried chicken to the wok. Stir in the soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of cooking wine, sugar, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through. (Time: 1-2 minutes)
08
Step
Remove the Fiery Pepper Chicken from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra green onions, if desired.
For an even more intense flavor, lightly toast the Szechuan peppercorns in a dry pan before adding them to the wok.
Adjust the number of dried chilies to your desired level of spiciness. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Chicken thighs remain more tender during the high-heat cooking than chicken breasts.
Ensure your peanut oil is hot enough before frying. If it's not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil.
Serve with steamed rice to balance the spice.
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Eileen Feest
Jun 24, 2025The chicken came out so crispy! Loved the numbing sensation from the Szechuan peppercorns.
Lloyd Skiles
Jun 14, 2025Absolutely amazing! The perfect balance of heat and flavor. My family devoured it!
Alexis Tremblay
May 6, 2025I reduced the number of dried chilies slightly, and it was perfect for my spice tolerance. Great recipe!
Raymond Corkery
Feb 24, 2025Authentic Szechuan taste right in my own kitchen. I will make it again and again!