This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is the perfect balance of bold heat, gentle sweetness, and fresh contrast. Tender chicken is quickly seared and tossed with colorful bell peppers in a glossy sauce, then served with fluffy rice and creamy avocado for a complete, satisfying meal. Fast enough for busy weeknights yet flavorful enough to feel special, this dish delivers big taste with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or neutral oil)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
For Serving
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice
Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, keep warm and set aside until ready to serve.
- Sear the Chicken
Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but still slightly crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce and Combine
Stir in the soy sauce, sweet chili or hoisin sauce, and chili flakes. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Assemble and Serve
Divide the rice between serving bowls. Top with the sweet and spicy chicken stir-fry and finish with fresh avocado slices on the side. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
Tips
- Cut chicken evenly for quick, even cooking.
- Keep the pan hot to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Adjust chili flakes depending on your heat preference.
Variations
- Add broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
- Drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil at the end for deeper flavor.
- Turn it into a burrito bowl by adding black beans and corn.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Avocado is best sliced fresh just before serving.
Pairings
- Sides: Steamed edamame, cucumber salad, or sautéed greens
- Salads: Asian-style slaw with sesame dressing
- Drinks: Iced green tea, sparkling water with lime, or light white wine
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
