Firecracker Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Firecracker chicken stir fry is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of spicy chicken with crisp vegetables, all tossed together in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals and love the convenience of stir-fries. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.

Ingredients Needed

To make firecracker chicken stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Cornstarch
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for cooking

Vegetables:

• Bell peppers (red, green, and/or yellow)
• Broccoli
• Snap peas
• Carrots
• Green onions

Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Sriracha sauce
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Cooking the Stir Fry

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and stir fry the vegetables until they are crisp-tender. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Firecracker chicken stir fry is best served hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

Variations and Tips

• You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, snow peas, or water chestnuts.
• Adjust the spice level of the dish by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha sauce and red pepper flakes.
• For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of honey in the sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Health Benefits

This firecracker chicken stir fry is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a good source of protein, while vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, the spicy sauce adds flavor without adding a lot of extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes firecracker chicken stir fry spicy?

The spiciness comes from the sriracha sauce and red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the chicken and using tofu or just sticking with the vegetables.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish milder, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce and red pepper flakes. For extra heat, increase the amounts or add additional chili sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the stir fry just before serving. Keep the cooked chicken, chopped vegetables, and sauce separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Is firecracker chicken stir fry suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can cook a big batch and portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Source: eatyourselfskinny.com