Peppercorn Fusion Confusion

Sichuan-Style Sliced Chicken and Pasta Stir-Fry with Garlic, Ginger, and Chili

35 minutes
Serves 4
DinnerChinese
Herb's take

Welcome to the wild side of weeknight noodles: boneless chicken meets pasta in a stir-fry that buzzes with Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Italy crashes a Sichuan dinner party, you’re about to find out (hint: numbing, spicy magic).

Equipment needed
  • Wok or large nonstick skillet

Ingredients

Yield
4

Instructions

  1. 01
    Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente, 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and rinse quickly under cold water to stop cooking, then toss with a drizzle of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  2. 02
    In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breasts, cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Mix well and let it marinate while you prep the aromatics.
  3. 03
    Heat a large wok or 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
  4. 04
    Stir-fry the marinated chicken in a single layer, turning once until lightly golden and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  5. 05
    Add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the wok. Toss in Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burned.
  6. 06
    Add ginger, garlic, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic.
  7. 07
    Add the bell pepper and cook, stirring, for 1 minute until just softened.
  8. 08
    Return the chicken to the wok along with the drained spaghetti. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
  9. 09
    Toss everything together vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
  10. 10
    Remove from heat and add the green parts of the scallions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or an extra splash of soy sauce if needed.
  11. 11
    Divide among bowls and serve piping hot, ideally with your favorite cautionary tale about Sichuan peppercorns.

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