8scallions,thinly sliced, whites and greens separated
Instructions
Combine the ingredients for the marinade In a mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the chicken, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature. Meanwhile, set a wire rack onto a rimmed baking sheet.
Pour the marinated chicken into a colander and let it drain for 1-2 minutes.
Combine cornstarch and salt on a plate. Add ½ of the chicken to the cornstarch mixture. Stir to coat, then shake off any excess. Set the chicken onto the wire rack, and repeat with the remaining chicken.
Warm the oil to 350° F (176° C) in a Dutch oven. Add half of the chicken in a single layer and cook until both sides brown, about 3-5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to an unused wire rack or paper towels.
Allow the oil to return to 350° F (176° C) and repeat the process with the remaining chicken.
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or wok. Then, add Arbol chilies and Sichuan peppercorns until they begin to sputter.
Next, add the garlic, ginger, sugar, and Shaoxing wine. Cook for about 3 minutes.
Stir in the reserved chicken and toss to combine.
Garnish with scallions, serve with jasmine rice, and get your chopsticks ready!
Notes
Expert Tips:
Control the heat by increasing or reducing the number of chopped red chilies in the dish.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to help infuse the meat with flavor. A traditional marinade includes soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and egg whites.
Use a wok to stir-fry the chicken. A wok heats evenly and allows you to cook the chicken quickly over high heat; this helps to retain its moisture and texture.
Be sure to remove the chicken from the wok when it is fully cooked. Overcooking the chicken can make it tough and dry.
Use Sichuan peppercorns to add a unique flavor and numbing sensation to the dish. These can be added to the stir-fry along with dried chili peppers.
Nutrition Disclosure:
The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice.