Dishbook

La Zi Ji is a fiery Sichuan stir-fry of crispy chicken bites wok-tossed with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing, spicy kick. Quick to prepare, the marinated chicken delivers tender juiciness contrasted by the crisp chilies. Best served hot with steamed rice to balance the heat.

Steps

1. Marinate chicken: combine chicken pieces with salt, sugar, soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch; let rest 10 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat; fry dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns until fragrant, then remove and reserve.
3. Increase heat to high and stir-fry the marinated chicken until crisp and cooked through, then remove and reserve.
4. Add garlic, ginger, and green onion to the wok; stir-fry until aromatic.
5. Return chicken, chilies, and peppercorns to the wok; toss quickly to combine and heat through, then serve immediately.