Szechuan Chicken

Name: Szechuan Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 3 green onions, sliced diagonally; long grain rice, cooked

Jump to Recipe

Szechuan Chicken is a sweet and spicy chicken stir fry dish that can be made in just 20 minutes! It’s perfect for serving over rice and noodles for a fast weeknight meal!

Need more 20 minute meals? Try my Chicken Marsala, Pasta Carbonara, or Homemade Alfredo Sauce!

szechuan chicken over rice on white plate with green onion

Szechuan Chicken is an easy and flavorful classic Chinese dish. It combines the perfect amount of sweet and spicy. If you’re craving Chinese tonight, make this fast and easy recipe in just 20 minutes!

What is Szechuan Chicken?

Szechuan chicken is a sweet and spicy dish from the Chinese province of Sichuan. It traditionally incorporates the Szechuan peppercorn, however this recipe substitutes cayenne pepper as it is easier to find in most US grocery stores. Szechuan chicken can also contain vegetables and sometimes peanuts.

This recipe is a basic version of what you would find in your local Chinese restaurant. It is mild and not too spicy (so very family-friendly). I’ve included notes below on how to add more spice to the dish.

How to Make Szechuan Chicken at Home

This recipe is super easy, you’ll never go back to take out once you try it!

chicken breast cut into cubes in bag with cornstarch

Chicken breast cubes are tossed with cornstarch and then browned in a skillet.
Garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and water are added and the chicken is simmered for just five minutes to finish cooking through-that’s it!
Serve over slow cooker rice or with veggies to complete the meal!

Tips for best results

Don’t skip the cornstarch step, it really makes this dish have its signature texture!
If you prefer more sauce on the final dish you can easily double or triple the sauce ingredients in the recipe.

FAQs

Can I make this a vegetarian dish?

I have had good results making this dish substituting cubed tempeh for the chicken.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This recipe reheats easily in the microwave, making it a great meal prep option!

Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, this is a great freezer meal. Allow it to cool then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave.

Variations

add in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, and/or carrots
add chili peppers to make it spicier
add peanuts, cashews, or sliced almonds
substitute steak, shrimp, chicken thighs, or tempeh for the chicken
serve over noodles, quinoa, or riced cauliflower

Looking for more super fast meals for busy weeknights? Try my Pasta Carbonara, Instant Pot Beef Stew, or Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken recipes as well!

If you try this recipe, please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!