If you’re craving a quick, vibrant, and mouthwatering dish that brings together a lively mix of flavors and textures, this Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender ground chicken, crisp vegetables, crunchy cashews, and a perfectly balanced spicy-sweet sauce, it’s a home-cooked favorite that comes together effortlessly yet feels delightfully special. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish promises a satisfying kick with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe comes alive with simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding color and crunch to layering flavors that make every mouthful exciting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): For a rich, smooth cooking base and to keep everything perfectly coated.
- 1 pound ground chicken: Lean and tender protein that absorbs the bold sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to soften.
- 6 ounces snow peas: Crunchy and fresh, they bring a bright green pop and subtle sweetness.
- 1 red bell pepper: Vibrant color and a mild fruity flavor that balances the spice perfectly.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Small and tender, they add an earthy bite and lovely texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup matchstick cut carrots: Sweet and colorful, they help keep the stir fry lively and crunchy.
- 3/4 cup cashews: A delightful nutty crunch that adds sophistication and richness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water): Keeps the sauce saucy and ensures even cooking without dryness.
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Sweet and savory depth that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: The fiery heart of this dish that gives it a playful hot kick.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Salty umami seasoning to intensify the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances out the heat with gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: For thickening the sauce to the perfect clingy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Warm and zesty, it lifts the aroma and adds complexity.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Essential pungency that flavors every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Extra heat that builds layers of spice.
How to Make Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
This recipe moves fast once the heat is on, so prepping everything in advance is key. Cut all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces, especially making sure the broccoli florets are small so they cook evenly with the rest. Having your sauce ready nearby will save time and keep you from rushing through the cooking steps.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
Combine hoisin sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, chicken broth, vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. This sauce is where the bold flavors of your Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe come alive, so take a moment to appreciate how those ingredients come together in just the right balance.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a plate or bowl to rest while you cook the veggies. This step builds the hearty chicken base that marries so well with the spicy sauce later.
Step 4: Sauté the Onion
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the onion and cook for about one minute until it begins to soften and smell sweet. This brief sauté releases the onion’s natural sugars, creating a flavorful foundation for the vegetables and sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
If the pan looks dry, add a small splash more oil. Add snow peas, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and matchstick carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the veggies for 3 to 4 minutes, keeping them tender-crisp for that perfect bite. If you prefer softer veggies, cook them just a bit longer, but try to maintain their fresh textures to balance the dish.
Step 6: Combine and Finish the Stir Fry
Add the cashews and the cooked ground chicken back into the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over everything. Let it bubble and thicken for less than a minute, stirring constantly so every bit is coated in that luscious, spicy glaze. Once thickened, take the skillet off the heat and get ready to serve your vibrant Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
How to Serve Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a handful of cilantro really brightens up the plate visually and taste-wise. A few extra crushed red pepper flakes can be added on top for those who want to crank up the spice. Toasted sesame seeds also add a delightful nutty crunch that complements the cashews beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Lightly buttered noodles or even crispy wonton chips on the side create fun ways to mix textures and enhance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the stir fry in colorful lettuce cups for a fresh and handheld twist, or spoon it over a bed of quinoa to boost protein and add variety. You can also stuff the stir fry into warm pita pockets or tortillas for a fusion wrap that’s perfect for lunch or dinner on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. Be sure to cool it fully before sealing to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and label with the date. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results to maintain a texture close to freshly cooked.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent drying out. You may add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works too—cover and heat in short intervals to avoid overheating any one spot.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and has a similar mild flavor. Just be sure to cook it fully and watch for any extra moisture to ensure the stir fry stays flavorful and not watery.
How spicy is this dish?
The Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe has a lively but balanced heat thanks to the sriracha and crushed red pepper flakes. You can always adjust the spice levels by reducing those elements or adding more if you love heat.
What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
If hoisin sauce isn’t in your pantry, you can substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a little honey or brown sugar to mimic its sweet-savory profile. It won’t be exactly the same but will still deliver great flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the ground chicken for crumbled tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press tofu well to avoid excess water, and adjust cooking times since the protein source will cook differently.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce and double-check your hoisin sauce ingredients or make a gluten-free version at home. Everything else in this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a delightful way to bring bold homemade flavors to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory notes paired with a medley of fresh veggies and crunchy cashews will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite meal to whip up on busy nights!
Print
Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Spicy Ground Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal packed with colorful vegetables, crunchy cashews, and a spicy-sweet Asian-inspired sauce. Ground chicken cooks fast and absorbs the bold flavors of hoisin, sriracha, garlic, and ginger, creating a satisfying dish perfect for a healthy dinner that can be ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 pound ground chicken
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced
- 6 ounces snow peas
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut small
- 1/2 cup matchstick cut carrots
Additional Ingredients
- 3/4 cup cashews
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Cut all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces with the broccoli florets cut quite small so everything cooks evenly and quickly once you start.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, chicken broth, vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart often, until fully cooked and no longer pink. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté onion: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet, then add the sliced onion. Cook for about 1 minute until it starts to soften.
- Cook vegetables: If the skillet looks dry, add a small splash more oil. Add snow peas, red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp, or cook longer if you prefer softer vegetables.
- Add cashews and combine: Stir in the cashews and the cooked ground chicken. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce bubbles and thickens, coating everything evenly, for about 1 minute.
- Serve immediately: Remove from heat and serve your spicy ground chicken stir fry hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a milder version, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes and sriracha sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey or lean pork for the ground chicken if desired.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
