Spicy Chongqing Chicken

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Chongqing Chicken.

1. Step 1

   In a bowl, mix together the cooking sherry, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and ground black pepper to create a marinade. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated, and set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Step 2

   In another bowl, combine the chicken stock, chile paste, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch for the sauce. Stir until well mixed, then add sesame seeds and set aside.

3. Step 3

   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the dried chile peppers and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn dark red. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Step 4

   Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet. Fry the marinated chicken pieces for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly browned.

5. Step 5

   Add the cracked pepper, minced ginger, minced garlic, salt, white parts of the scallions, and chopped peanuts to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.

6. Step 6

   Return the reserved chiles to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Garnish with additional sesame seeds and the green parts of the scallions before serving.