Craving a dish packed with flavor that’s on the table in no time? Then this spicy chicken is exactly what you’re looking for. A seriously tasty meal that works perfectly with rice and any sides you like.

Why this Recipe Works

I often make this spicy chicken on days when I want maximum flavor with minimal effort. If I have leftovers, I’ll turn them into a spicy chicken sandwich the next day; honestly just as good, if not better.

Quick Ajam Pedis

Ajam pedis literally means “spicy chicken” , and that’s exactly what you get here. This Asian chicken recipe is quick and easy to make, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. You don’t need many ingredients, and within 30 minutes you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table. Love that!

Looking for more inspiration for delicious dinners? Be sure to check out these easy weeknight dinner recipes as well.

Spicy Chicken with Rice

Personally, I love this spicy chicken best with rice, but noodles are a great option too. With spicy dishes, I always like to add something fresh on the side. A simple cucumber salad or some sweet-and-sour cucumber adds a lovely cooling contrast

I also love serving atjar with this dish. Want to add more veggies? Green beans are delicious here too. And to finish it off properly, a handful of cassava crackers or crispy fried onions for extra crunch is always a good idea.

Spicy Chicken Ingredients

This dish is really straightforward and uses simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken thighs: I prefer thighs because they stay juicy and tender, but chicken breast works too if you like.
Red onion, garlic & ginger: These are the flavor base: sweetness from the onion and a bit of heat from the ginger.
Sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis) & brown sugar: The sweet elements that balance out the spice.
Sambal & chili sauce: This is where the heat comes from. Adjust the amount to your own taste
Peanut butter: The secret ingredient! It makes the sauce creamy and adds loads of flavor.
Ketchup: Unexpected, but it really brings the sauce together.

How to Make Spicy Chicken

You start by browning the chicken. Then you add the onion, garlic, and ginger to build the base flavors. The sauce comes together by stirring in the remaining ingredients. Let it simmer briefly so all the flavors can come together, then thicken the sauce with a simple cornstarch slurry. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Make it as Hot as you like

This dish is naturally spicy, but it’s very easy to adjust. Want it extra hot? Add more sambal or some fresh red chili peppers. Prefer it milder? Start with a small amount of sambal and taste as you go. That way you’re fully in control of how spicy your chicken turns out. Ideally if there are also children eating along.

Spicy Chicken Sandwich? Absolutely!

Spicy chicken isn’t just great with rice, it’s also amazing on a sandwich. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Serve it with fries or a fresh salad and you’ve got yourself a seriously good meal. So make sure you keep any left-overs, or just make it as a lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make spicy chicken ahead of time?

Yes, this spicy chicken is perfect for making ahead. The flavors actually improve as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. You can also freeze the spicy chicken for up to 3 months.

How spicy is this recipe?

You’re in full control of the heat level. Start with less sambal and taste once the chicken is cooked. If you want it spicier, simply add more sambal at the end.

Is spicy chicken suitable for kids?

That depends on how well your kids handle spicy food. For younger children, use less sambal or cook part of the chicken separately before adding the spicy sauce.

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Spicy Chicken (The Best Hot Chicken)