There is something addictive about the "malla" (numbing and spicy) sensation of a proper Sichuan-style chicken stir-fry. Living in rural Andalucía, I don’t always have a specialist Asian grocer around the corner, but with a few pantry staples, you can replicate those bold flavours anywhere—even on a two-ring hob in the campervan.

This dish is all about the balance of heat from dried chillies and the unique, tingly vibration of Sichuan peppercorns. It’s a fast, high-heat cook that rewards preparation. If you’ve been looking for an easy chicken stir-fry that packs more punch than your average takeaway, this is the one.

The Ingredients for Sichuan-style chicken stir-fry

(Serves 2)

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil.
• 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns (lightly crushed).
• 6-8 dried red chillies (snip them in half if you want more heat).
• 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced.
• A thumb-sized piece of ginger, finely julienned.
• 2 spring onions, cut into lengths.
• The Sauce: 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp Chinkiang black vinegar (or balsamic at a push), 1 tsp sugar

Method

1. Prep is King: Mix your sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Have your garlic, ginger, and chillies ready by the hob.
2. Infuse the Oil: Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan until shimmering. Toss in the Sichuan peppercorns and dried chillies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant—don't let the chillies turn black!
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes. Stir-fry over high heat until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through.
4. Aromatics: Throw in the garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the spring onions. Toss for another minute until the kitchen smells incredible.
5. The Finish: Pour in the sauce. It will bubble and thicken almost instantly, coating the chicken in a glossy, spicy glaze.
6. Serve: Toss in the green spring onion tops and serve immediately over steamed rice.

This recipe is part of the Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas — The Flexible Chef's Complete Collection — every chicken recipe from Casa Adora and the road. Explore the full collection.

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