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Overhead shot of glazed chicken thighs and bell pepper chunks in a glossy sauce, sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Sweet Bell Pepper Chicken

Gluten-free sweet bell pepper chicken recipe with crispy fried chicken thighs and colorful peppers in a tangy-sweet sauce, ready in 45 minutes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Peppers

  • 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2 to 2 inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into 3/4 inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 3/4 inch pieces

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions
 

Chicken and Peppers

  • Season the Chicken:

    In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Using a food-safe glove, rub the seasonings into the meat thoroughly.

  • Coat with Cornstarch:

    Add 1/3 cup cornstarch over the seasoned chicken and mix until every piece is evenly coated. Reserve.

  • Make the Sauce:

    In a saucepan, combine water, rice vinegar, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, minced garlic, red chili flakes (if using), ketchup, and 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch. Whisk over medium heat until the mixture reaches a gentle boil and thickens. Take off the heat and set aside.

  • Fry the Chicken:

    Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of 2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

  • Cook the Peppers:

    Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper pieces and cook, stirring, until they reach your preferred texture (crunchy or soft).

  • Combine Everything:

    Add the fried chicken and prepared sauce to the skillet with the peppers. Stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is hot and well integrated.

Sauce

  • Serve and Garnish:

    Serve and add any desired garnishes.
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