Chilli Chicken (Indian/Hakka Style)

Name: Chilli Chicken (Indian/Hakka Style)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornflour; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; Salt to taste; 3 tablespoons oil; 1 onion, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 2-3 green chillies, slit; 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup; 1 tablespoon vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; 1 tablespoon coriander powder; 1 tablespoon garam masala

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this Chilli Chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken pieces tossed in a spicy, savory sauce with colorful bell peppers and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for those who crave a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine and makes an excellent starter or main dish. Enjoy it with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal that packs a punch!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-28T12:02:18.988Z

This Chilli Chicken recipe combines the best elements of Indian and Chinese cuisine, resulting in a dish that is both spicy and savory. Perfect for gatherings, it's sure to impress your guests!

A Flavorful Fusion

Chilli Chicken is a tantalizing dish that beautifully marries the essence of Indian and Chinese cuisines. The spicy, savory sauce infused with aromatic spices elevates the tender chicken to new heights. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or a casual dinner, this dish never fails to impress!

With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, Chilli Chicken is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. The mix of sliced bell peppers and golden-brown chicken creates an inviting presentation that draws your guests in. It’s a dish that tells a story of cultural fusion, showcasing how ingredients from different cuisines can come together to create something truly special.

Perfect Pairings

Chilli Chicken can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for your meal planning. Traditionally served with fried rice or noodles, the combination enhances the dining experience. The fluffy rice or chewy noodles soaked in the sauce creates a harmonious balance that leaves you craving more. You can also serve it with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad to add a crispy texture to your meal.

If you’re looking to elevate your dining experience further, consider pairing this dish with a fruity cocktail or a refreshing mocktail. The spiciness of the Chilli Chicken complements the sweetness of a mango-based drink beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. Whether entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner, these pairings will take your Chilli Chicken experience to the next level.

Tips for the Perfect Chilli Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken

500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornflour
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons oil
1 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
2-3 green chillies, slit
2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 tablespoon coriander powder
1 tablespoon garam masala

Make sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, cornflour, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan and add the marinated chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, then remove from pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and green chillies until softened. Add tomato ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and spices, and stir well.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken back into the pan with the sauce and toss to coat well. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Serve hot with fried rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Serve hot and garnish with spring onions if desired.

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing Chilli Chicken is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to restore its texture and flavor.

Freezing is another option for longer storage. Place the cooled Chilli Chicken in a freezer-safe container, and it can be kept for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan. Keep in mind that the freshness of the peppers may diminish, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Customization Ideas

Chilli Chicken is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary requirements. For a less spicy version, reduce the number of green chillies or use sweet bell peppers instead. If you love heat, consider adding chopped fresh green chillies or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Additionally, you can add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. This not only enhances the dish's texture but also adds a spectrum of colors, making it visually appealing. For a vegetarian version, tofu or paneer can be used as a protein substitute, and the dish will taste just as delightful!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce the number of green chillies and chili powder in the recipe.