Get ready to ignite your taste buds! Spicy food lovers, rejoice – we’ve got 18 mouth-watering and bold chicken recipes that will set your senses on fire. From international flavors like Korean Fried Chicken and Jamaican Jerk Chicken, to classic comfort foods like Buffalo Wings and Nashville Hot Chicken, this list has something for every spice level.
Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or just want to add some excitement to your meal routine, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And with ingredients like gochujang, harissa, and sriracha, you’ll be transported to the streets of Seoul, the backwoods of Louisiana, and beyond.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring the bold flavors and techniques that make these spicy chicken dishes stand out. So, buckle up and get ready to sweat – your taste buds are in for a wild ride!
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Spicy Korean Fried Chicken recipe combines the crispiest fried chicken with the bold flavors of Gochujang and soy sauce, finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the wet ingredients and toss to coat.
4. Dredge the coated chicken in the dry ingredients, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the chicken in hot oil (350°F) for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spicy Chicken Pasta
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional pasta dishes with this spicy Cajun chicken pasta recipe! This bold and zesty dish combines the heat of Cajun spices with tender chicken, savory garlic, and tangy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Spicy Basil Chicken
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Thailand with the simplicity of a stir-fry, combining juicy chicken, fragrant basil, and spicy chilies for a deliciously addictive dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and curry paste. Cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
4. Add fish sauce, lime juice, basil, and chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Spicy Chicken Wings
This classic recipe delivers a mouth-numbingly spicy kick with the perfect balance of flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying finger-lickin’ good Buffalo wings in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken wings and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, mix together Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter until well combined.
4. Add the vinegar, salt, and pepper to the sauce mixture; stir to combine.
5. Toss the chicken wings in the sauce mixture until fully coated.
6. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the wings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Chicken Vindaloo
Get ready for a flavorful Indian-inspired dish that will tantalize your taste buds! This Spicy Chicken Vindaloo recipe is a classic North Indian curry made with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Spicy Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold spices of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the heat of scotch bonnet peppers. This spicy chicken recipe is perfect for those who like a little kick in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and rub the spice mixture all over them, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy chicken stir-fry recipe, featuring crispy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy recipe that combines juicy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and sweet mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, shredded cheese
Mango Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nashville Hot Spicy Chicken
This recipe brings the heat with a classic Nashville-style spicy chicken dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this chicken is smothered in a tangy and spicy sauce that’ll have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Nashville Hot Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge marinated chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Nashville Hot Sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry combines juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. A blend of Indian and Southeast Asian flavors, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Satay Skewers
Savor the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with these spicy chicken satay skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, yogurt, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread 4-5 marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken Biryani
This flavorful Spicy Chicken Biryani recipe is a twist on the classic Indian dish, with a kick of heat from the spicy chicken and aromatic basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add chicken, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through.
3. Rinse rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and add to the skillet with chicken mixture. Stir well.
4. Add 1 cup water to the skillet, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken Enchiladas
Add a kick to your meal with these Spicy Chicken Enchiladas, packed with tender chicken, crunchy peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble enchiladas by filling tortillas with chicken mixture and rolling up. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Enjoy your spicy and satisfying Spicy Chicken Enchiladas!
Spicy Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Spicy Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of spicy chicken meatballs with rich tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken breast
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1-2 dried red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
8. Add parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
9. Serve the meatballs in the tomato sauce, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Total: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Shrimp Jambalaya
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and flavorful jambalaya recipe, packed with juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside with the chicken.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and browned chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Pad Thai
A classic Thai dish gets a spicy kick with this recipe featuring chicken, rice noodles, and a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup Pad Thai sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken and mixed vegetables in a wok or large skillet with the vegetable oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the Pad Thai sauce and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve the spicy chicken mixture over cooked rice noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken Chili with Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful beans, and a kick of spice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wrap
Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this spicy chicken shawarma wrap recipe. Juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce all come together to create a deliciously satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Red onion, thinly sliced
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and tzatziki sauce.
7. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 fiery spicy chicken recipes! From Spicy Korean Fried Chicken to Nashville Hot Spicy Chicken, and from Thai Spicy Basil Chicken to Jamaican Jerk Spicy Chicken, this collection of bold flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, tacos, or stir-fry, there’s a recipe here that combines spicy heat with savory deliciousness. So why wait? Dive into these mouth-watering recipes and experience the thrill of flavor!