garlic and pepper chicken thai

3 min read 03-12-2024

Introduction

This recipe delivers the explosive flavors of Thai garlic pepper chicken. It's a simple dish, packed with punchy garlic, spicy pepper, and savory chicken. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun gathering, it's sure to become a new favorite. Let's dive into this flavorful Thai culinary adventure!

Ingredients for Thai Garlic Pepper Chicken

Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (Chicken breasts work too, but thighs stay juicier)
Garlic: 1/2 cup minced garlic (about 10-12 cloves) – Don't skimp on the garlic! This is key to the flavor.
Thai Chili Peppers: 2-4 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference. Start with 2 and add more if you like it extra hot!) Serrano peppers can be substituted.
Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup (or to taste - you can use low sodium if desired)
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons (adds a lovely umami depth; vegetarian oyster sauce is available)
Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon (for that authentic Thai taste; a little goes a long way)
Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon (balances the saltiness and adds a hint of sweetness)
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry)
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (or enough for stir-frying)
Optional Garnish: Chopped green onions, sesame seeds

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Thai Garlic Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. This is your flavor base.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This will thicken the sauce.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and Thai chilies to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. This step unlocks the delicious aroma.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and garlic. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. This creates a glossy, delicious coating for the chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Thai garlic pepper chicken immediately over rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.

Tips and Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilies according to your spice tolerance. Start with fewer and add more if needed.
Chicken: You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind they may be slightly drier.
Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snow peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Protein: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch slurry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: It's best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

Q: What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

A: Jasmine rice is a classic pairing for Thai food, but any long-grain rice works well.

Q: Where can I find Thai chilies?

A: Thai chilies are usually found in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of larger supermarkets.

Conclusion

This recipe for Thai garlic pepper chicken is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, chili, and savory chicken is simply irresistible. Give it a try and experience the magic of Thai cuisine! Remember to adjust the spice level to your liking and experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own. Enjoy!