20-Minute Spicy Chicken Dinner

Tender chunks of chicken and vibrant bell peppers come together in this irresistible 20-minute dinner. The secret lies in the perfectly balanced sauce that coats each morsel with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, creating a restaurant-worthy dish right in your home kitchen.

During recipe testing, I discovered that cutting the chicken slightly larger than bite-sized helps keep it incredibly juicy while still cooking quickly. My family particularly loves how the peppers retain their crunch while soaking up all the delicious sauce.

Essential Ingredients Guide

• Boneless chicken breasts: Bring lean protein and a tender texture when properly cooked just until done
• Bell peppers: Offer natural sweetness and maintain their delightful crunch through quick cooking
• Chili garlic sauce: Creates depth beyond simple heat, infusing the dish with garlic and slight fermented notes
• Green onions: Provide two distinct flavors when separated, white parts add savory notes while cooking, greens garnish with fresh crispness
• Chicken broth: Creates a rich sauce base while helping to steam the vegetables perfectly
• Cornstarch: Transforms the sauce into a silky glaze that coats every ingredient beautifully

Creating Your Masterpiece

Preparation Magic:

Set yourself up for success by organizing your workspace. Slice chicken against the grain into generous chunks ensuring even cooking. Cut peppers into squares that match the chicken size for balanced bites. Combine sauce ingredients in a bowl, tasting to adjust heat level according to preference.

Chicken Perfection:

Heat your largest skillet until a drop of water dances across the surface. Add oil and swirl to coat, then carefully arrange chicken pieces without crowding. Allow each piece to develop a golden crust before stirring. Cook until the exterior is lightly browned but center remains slightly pink.

Sauce Symphony:

Pour your prepared sauce around the pan edges, allowing it to bubble and caramelize slightly. Add broth gradually while stirring to lift any flavorful bits from the pan bottom. Introduce peppers and white scallion parts, stirring gently to coat everything in sauce. Cover and let the steam work its magic.

Finishing Flourish:

Create a smooth cornstarch slurry and stream it slowly while stirring. Watch as the sauce transforms into a glossy coating. Taste and adjust seasonings, remembering that flavors intensify as the dish cools slightly.

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I've found that green bell peppers can sometimes overwhelm the dish's sweetness, which is why I prefer using red, yellow, or orange varieties. My grandmother taught me that adding the cornstarch slurry in small increments creates the silkiest sauce texture.

Pairing Perfection

Transform this dish into a complete feast by serving it alongside fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For added texture, consider crispy Asian-style green beans or honey-glazed carrots. Fresh cucumber salad provides a cooling contrast to the spicy elements.

Recipe Adaptations

Create a lower-carb version using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as your base. For extra protein, toss in some cashews or peanuts during the final minutes of cooking. Vegetarians can substitute firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for equally delicious results.

Keeping It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken slightly when chilled. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the perfect consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to three months.

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This recipe has become my go-to for those evenings when time is short but I refuse to compromise on flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crisp peppers, and that irresistible sauce never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. The beauty lies in its simplicity while delivering restaurant-quality results. Each time I make it, I'm reminded that sometimes the speediest recipes become our most treasured family favorites.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, start with 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce and add more to taste

→ What can I use if I don't have a lid?

A baking sheet or aluminum foil can work as a makeshift lid

→ Can I use different colored peppers?

Yes, any bell pepper works, though red, yellow, or orange provide best flavor

→ What can I serve this with?

Rice is ideal, but noodles or cauliflower rice work well too

→ Can I make this ahead?

Best served fresh, but leftovers keep well for 2-3 days refrigerated