Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

The Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is the perfect dish for any occasion, combining vibrant colors and bold flavors. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and veggies. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this stir-fry stands out with its aromatic spices and fresh ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, ginger, and chili flakes creates a deliciously spicy kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out chicken for beef or tofu and add your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for batch cooking, it stores well in the fridge for up to four days—perfect for lunches!
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant bell peppers not only add flavor but also bring a beautiful pop of color to your plate.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Let’s gather what you’ll need before diving into the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Rice cooker or pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Essential for even cooking and high-heat stir-frying, ensuring all ingredients are cooked quickly without losing their crunch.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop all your fresh vegetables and chicken, keeping your kitchen tidy.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken and vegetables effortless, saving time during preparation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stir-Fry

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 12 tsp crushed red chili flakes (adjust to spice level)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

For the Rice

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
• 3 cups water
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook the jasmine rice in salted water until fluffy. Once cooked, keep it warm while you prepare the stir-fry.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the wok. Cook until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Stir in onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook until slightly softened.

Step 6: Add Sauces and Spice

Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, crushed red chili flakes, and cornstarch slurry if using. Stir-fry everything together for about 2–3 more minutes until the sauce coats all ingredients well.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with a generous portion of jasmine rice on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry!

Notes

Feel free to swap chicken for beef or tofu if you want variety. Adding broccoli or snap peas can provide an extra crunch! This dish is great for meal prep; store it in airtight containers for up to four days.

How to Serve Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Serving Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is a delightful way to enjoy a colorful and flavorful meal. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience.

Garnish

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightness.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing lime over the stir-fry enhances its zestiness.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch.

Additional Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The crunch of broccoli pairs well with the tender chicken and peppers.
• Snap Peas: Adding snap peas provides extra texture and sweetness.

Serving Style

• In Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a cozy meal setting.
• On a Platter: Present on a large platter for family-style dining, allowing everyone to help themselves.

How to Perfect Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

To make your Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice even better, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh garlic and ginger for more intense flavors that really pop.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken, enhancing its taste and texture.
• Uniform Cutting: Cut chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Batch Cooking: If making a larger portion, stir-fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust soy sauce and chili flakes according to your desired spice level while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic complement the stir-fry perfectly.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the spice.
3. Miso Soup: This warm soup provides a comforting contrast to the stir-fried dish.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies make for delightful finger food.
5. Chili Lime Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with chili and lime enhances the flavor profile of the main dish.
6. Thai Mango Salad: A sweet mango salad adds fruity freshness that contrasts beautifully with the heat of the stir-fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when preparing a dish like Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken in soy sauce and spices can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let the chicken soak up those delicious seasonings before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve that golden-brown color and crisp texture.
• Neglecting the Heat: Using low heat will result in soggy vegetables. Make sure your wok or skillet is hot enough for a proper stir-fry that keeps veggies crunchy and colorful.
• Ignoring Timing: Adding all ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recipe instructions closely, adding ingredients in stages for the best results.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap sauces and oils can affect the overall taste of your dish. Invest in good-quality soy sauce and fresh ingredients for a better flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice.

Can I use different proteins in this stir-fry?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, turkey, or tofu for a different flavor profile.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To modify the spice level, simply decrease or increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes according to your preference.

What vegetables can I add to Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice?

Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.

How long does it take to make Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice is not only packed with flavor but also offers great versatility. You can easily customize it by swapping out proteins or adding your favorite veggies. Give this recipe a try for a quick and satisfying meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover a burst of flavor with our Spicy Chicken & Bell Pepper Stir-Fry with Rice, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. This vibrant recipe features juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices that come together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal prep option or a delicious family dinner, this stir-fry is easy to customize by swapping proteins or adding your favorite vegetables. Serve it hot over fluffy jasmine rice for a delightful dining experience that balances taste and nutrition.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ginger (minced)
• 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
• 3 cups water

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Instructions

1. Prepare jasmine rice by cooking it in salted water until fluffy; keep warm.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown.
5. Stir in sliced onion and bell peppers; cook until slightly softened.
6. Mix in soy sauce, chili flakes, and optional cornstarch slurry; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until well coated.
7. Serve hot with jasmine rice on the side.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg