Bold, colorful, and brimming with bold flavors, Hunan chicken is the perfect way to bring the taste of a classic Chinese take-out favorite into your own kitchen. Each bite offers a balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a fiery-sweet sauce.

This quick and satisfying dish pairs succulent strips of chicken with fresh bell pepper and broccoli, all tossed in a savory blend of soy, chili paste, and aromatic spices. The rich Hunan sauce delivers just the right kick to awaken the taste buds.

Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup, Hunan chicken is an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a vibrant, comforting dinner that’s as impressive as it is easy to make.

Best Hunan Chicken Recipe Ingredients

Chicken Breast – The tender, lean foundation of the dish, providing juicy bites that soak up the bold, savory-spicy flavors of the Hunan sauce.

Red Bell Pepper – Brings vibrant color, crisp texture, and a natural sweetness that balances the heat.

Broccoli Florets – Adds freshness, a satisfying crunch, and a pop of green for visual appeal.

Soy Sauce – Infuses the dish with rich umami depth, enhancing every savory note.

Chili Paste – Delivers the signature kick of heat that defines authentic Hunan-style flavor.

Garlic & Ginger – A dynamic aromatic duo, lending warmth, fragrance, and a subtle spice.

Honey – Softens the chili’s bite with a delicate layer of sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile.

Best Hunan Chicken Recipe for Dinner – Tips, Serving Ideas & FAQs

Recipe Tips

1. Prep Ingredients Before Cooking
Hunan chicken cooks quickly, so having everything ready before you start is key. Slice the chicken and vegetables in advance, and measure out all sauce ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking the chicken or vegetables while you scramble for ingredients.

2. Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency
The cornstarch in the sauce helps it thicken, but timing is essential. Add the sauce only after the chicken and vegetables are nearly cooked, then stir continuously until glossy and slightly thick. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it.

3. Control the Heat Level
Traditional Hunan chicken has a noticeable kick, but you can easily adjust the spice to your liking. For a milder version, use less chili paste or opt for a mild chili sauce. If you want it extra fiery, add fresh sliced chilies or an extra spoon of chili paste.

What to Serve with Hunan Chicken

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A light, fluffy base that absorbs the rich, spicy-sweet Hunan sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.

2. Garlic Noodles – A savory, aromatic option that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors, adding depth without overpowering the dish.

3. Asian Cucumber Salad – Refreshing, crisp, and lightly tangy, this side dish balances the heat of the Hunan chicken for a complete, harmonious meal.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Just slice them thin for quick, even cooking.

Q2: What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
Dry sherry or rice vinegar (with a pinch of sugar) makes a good alternative if Shaoxing wine isn’t available.

Q3: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and follow the same stir-fry steps, adjusting cooking times as needed.

Q4: Can I prepare Hunan chicken ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients and sauce in advance, but cook just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and the chicken tender.

Best Hunan Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Hunan chicken is a beloved staple of Chinese take-out cuisine, celebrated for its bold yet balanced flavors. This home-cooked rendition features tender slices of chicken breast paired with crisp, colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a robust Hunan sauce that blends savory, sweet, and spicy notes. With only one pan and approximately 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time, it is a convenient option for creating a vibrant and satisfying dinner.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 31

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry
Boneless skinless chicken breast – thinly sliced to ensure quick and even cooking.
Cornstarch – lightly coats the chicken to create a delicate crispness when stir-fried.
Salt – enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
Ground black pepper – imparts a subtle heat and depth of taste.
Vegetable oil – ideal for searing both the chicken and vegetables.
Red bell pepper – thinly sliced to contribute sweetness and crunch.
Broccoli florets – add freshness texture, and vibrant color to the dish.
For the Hunan Sauce
Vegetable broth – serves as the base enriching the sauce with a savory foundation.
Shaoxing wine – lends a distinctive depth and aroma.
Soy sauce – provides a rich umami profile.
Chili paste – introduces a notable spicy kick.
Minced garlic – infuses the sauce with bold aromatic flavor.
Grated ginger – adds a warm fragrant undertone.
Honey – balances the spiciness with gentle sweetness.
Cornstarch – ensures the sauce achieves a smooth thick consistency.

Method

Place the sliced chicken breast into a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Add cornstarch, salt, and pepper, tossing or shaking until each piece is evenly coated.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, allowing it to finish cooking later with the vegetables.
In the same pan, add the red bell pepper and broccoli florets. If necessary, drizzle in a little more oil. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable broth, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, chili paste, garlic, ginger, honey, and cornstarch. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds or finely sliced green onions, if desired. Serve promptly with steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy as a stand-alone dish.

Best Hunan Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Best Hunan Chicken Recipe Ingredients