Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir Fry – as interpreted by this very white American woman. Don’t worry, that doesn’t necessarily mean bland. IN fact, bland is the enemy and I try to vanquish said foe frequently.

What began as a shopping list for some spicy BBQ chicken kabobs with A pineapple twist, became something new. Because apparently its impossible to find a Store bought BBQ sauce That is free of some pretty common allergens. Corn starch and wheat flour are the all time favorite thickeners so, stay tuned for some homemade BBQ sauces free of these items And more, but with flavor one day. Until then, try this delicious change up Meal instead.

Sweet and Spicy chicken with peppers and pineapple is hardly a new concept, but I must say the homemade version is the best. Personally, I think it makes all the difference when one can have quality control over the freshness and leanness of the ingredients.

I hope you enjoy this version of a take out favorite.

Entree Ingredients

• 1-2 C Rice (Jasmine or Basmati)
• 1-3 3/4 C Water (water content depends on how much and what kind of rice you desire.)
• 2-4 TBSP Oil (Coconut, Vegetable, sesame or peanut recommended – personally I used Coconut and a Vegetable oil made of a sesame and canola oil mix, as that was available and allergen friendly.)
• 1-2 lb Chicken Breast, trimmed and cubed to desired size
• 1/2 Sweet Onion, thin sliced or chopped, as desired
• 2-3 Garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 1/2-1 C Broccoli crowns, chopped
• 1-2 Carrots, chopped or julienned
• 1/2 Green and Red Bell Peppers, Chopped
• 1 C, Pineapple, chopped
• 1 TBSP Red Pepper Flakes

Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 C, Coconut Aminos (or soy sauce)
• 1/4-1/2 C, Blue Agave (or Honey)
• 1/2-1 TBSP, Jalapeño Sauce or red chili paste (as desired for personal taste)
• 1 TBSP *Paprika
• 1 TBSP *Garlic Powder or Granulated Garlic
• 1/2 TBSP Ginger Powder or Ginger paste (Pressed or minced fresh ginger is even better.)
• 1/2 TBSP Onion Powder
• 1 tsp *Sea Salt
• 1 tsp *Cracked Black Pepper to taste

*Use to season chicken pieces and dust the entire dish as needed for optimal flavor.

Rice Directions

1. In a medium size pot bring water to a boil. (Rice to water ratio depends on type of rice used.) See this Lemon Thyme Basmati Rice recipe for great Basmati instructions.
2. Add rice and reduce heat to low and let simmer for appx 5-8 minutes. Important, especially for Basmati rice; wrap pot lid in small towel while simmering until all of the liquid is absorbed.  When you check the rice, you will see small holes forming in the top layer. This usually means the liquid has been absorbed the rice is ready. Remove from heat immediately and keep lid on to trap heat until the rest of the food is ready to serve.

Entree Directions

1. Mix all sauce ingredients together and set aside.
2. Heat a couple tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok and add chicken. (Be careful to not heat oil too high or have a lot of water on the chicken to avoid burns.)
3. Season chicken with the same seasonings in the sauce (paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper). Spoon a little of the sauce on the chicken during this step as well. Sauté until Mostly cooked, maybe even a little browning Getting started. Don’t over cook as you will be removing and adding the chicken back to finish.
4. When chicken is ready, remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add some oil to the skillet and the onion. Sauté until translucent adding some salt and pepper as desired.
6. Add minced garlic and ginger paste if using fresh ginger. Stir frequently and be careful to not burn, adding oil as needed.
7. Add Broccoli and carrots, and drizzle some sauce on the mixture. Stir well and sauté for a minute.
8. Add the peppers, pineapple, red pepper flakes, and more of the sauce – leaving a little more for the very end. Stir well and sauté until the vegetables are no longer raw, but still have some crisp.
9. Add the chicken back in along with the remaining sauce and listed seasonings for desired taste and heat level. Mix well and let sauté for a minute so the flavors meld.
10. Serve with prepared rice and enjoy!