spicy Sichuan BBQ chicken on a grill

Barbecue chicken

spicy sichuan bbq chicken

By:

WordofMany

Published:

08 Sept 2025

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I'll never forget the first time I tasted authentic Sichuan cuisine. It was at a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Chengdu, and the explosion of flavors was unlike anything I'd ever experienced. The numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns, the intense heat of chili oil, and the complex blend of savory and sweet notes – it was pure culinary magic. After years of experimenting in my own kitchen, I've finally cracked the code to creating a Sichuan-inspired BBQ chicken that captures that same incredible flavor profile. It’s not just a recipe; it's a journey to Sichuan, right from your backyard grill. I remember vividly my attempt to replicate the taste. Oh boy! It was a mess, the kitchen was filled with smoke and i almost set the sprinkler off. But, I learned from that, and now I'm sharing it with you. My freinds and family absolutely love this dish. Trust me, you'll be obsessed!
raw chicken marinating in Sichuan spices
What makes this BBQ chicken stand out is the unique blend of spices and the layering of flavors. The Sichuan peppercorns create a tingling, numbing sensation known as 'ma la,' which is balanced by the heat of chili flakes and the sweetness of honey. The soy sauce adds a savory depth, while the ginger and garlic provide an aromatic kick. The result is a chicken that's incredibly flavorful, tender, and juicy, with a beautiful balance of spice, sweetness, and umami. Picture this: you’re at your next summer barbecue, the aroma of this Sichuan BBQ chicken wafting through the air, tantalizing everyone's senses. As you take your first bite, the complex flavors dance on your tongue, leaving you craving more. That's the magic of this recipe. It transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience. So, fire up your grill and get ready to create a BBQ masterpiece that will leave everyone speechless. Your next BBQ needs this!
Sichuan BBQ chicken being grilled on an outdoor grill

Required Equipments

  • Grill
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spice grinder or mortar and pestle
  • Whisk
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Spicy Sichuan BBQ Chicken: Frequently Asked Questions

Spicy Sichuan BBQ Chicken

Ignite your taste buds with this Spicy Sichuan BBQ Chicken recipe! Infused with the fiery flavors of Sichuan peppercorns, chili, and savory spices, this chicken is a guaranteed showstopper at any BBQ.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. First, prepare the Sichuan peppercorns. In a dry pan over medium heat, toast 2 tablespoons of Sichuan peppercorns for about 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
  2. Let the peppercorns cool slightly, then grind them using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Set aside. The aroma at this point is divine!
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground Sichuan peppercorns, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup), 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference), 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  4. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. This is your Sichuan BBQ marinade. Give it a taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.
  5. Add 2.5 lbs of chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts) to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. I know waiting is hard, but it's totally worth it!
  6. When you're ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If using charcoal, make sure the coals are evenly distributed.
  7. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill grates. Discard the remaining marinade (or boil it for a quick sauce!).
  8. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's properly cooked. To avoid excessive charring, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill if needed.
  9. During the last few minutes of grilling, you can brush the chicken with a little extra honey or soy sauce for a nice glaze. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
  10. Once the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the burst of Sichuan flavors!
  12. Feeling adventurous? Make a quick dipping sauce by combining a tablespoon of soy sauce, a teaspoon of rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of sesame oil. This enhances the Sichuan experience even further. You won't regret it!

📝 Notes

  • For extra heat, add a teaspoon of Sichuan chili oil to the marinade.
  • Marinating the chicken overnight will result in the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice preference.
  • If you don't have five-spice powder, you can omit it or use a blend of cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal

Protein: 50 g

Fat: 20 g

Carbohydrates: 20 g

Fiber: 2 g

Calcium: 50 mg

The best meals are those cooked with love and a dash of adventure. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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