Spicy Cucumber & Chicken Stir-Fry

Name: Spicy Cucumber & Chicken Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili paste; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup roasted cashews (optional); Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I love quick and flavorful meals that can be whipped up in no time. This Spicy Cucumber & Chicken Stir-Fry has become a favorite in our household. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cucumbers, and a fiery sauce creates a delightful explosion of flavors that keeps us coming back for more. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use fresh summer cucumbers, making it a light yet satisfying option for any night of the week.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-12T18:46:19.588Z

As I experimented with different stir-fry recipes, I discovered that cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with chicken. The trick is to cut them thinly, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce without becoming too soggy. I tossed in a handful of cashews at the end for an extra layer of texture, and the result was absolutely delightful!

This dish is all about balancing heat and freshness. I use a combination of chili paste and oyster sauce for that perfect spicy-sweet flavor. It's quick enough for busy nights yet impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of spicy heat and refreshing crunch
Quick to make, so dinner is ready in no time
Versatile dish that works with any protein or vegetable

Technique Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry

Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. This technique preserves the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables while keeping the chicken tender. Make sure your skillet is preheated adequately; you want the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. If the chicken is crowded in the pan, it will steam instead of sear, so consider cooking it in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.

As you add the cucumbers and bell peppers, keep the stir-fry moving. This ensures even cooking and prevents any one ingredient from overcooking. You’re aiming for tender-crisp vegetables, so don’t be afraid to act quickly. Keep an eye on them; around 2-3 minutes should suffice, just until they are glossy and vibrant.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish, the cucumber, brings a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts with the savory flavors of chicken and the heat from the chili paste. Choosing the right type of cucumber is essential; English cucumbers are preferable as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them perfect for this recipe. If you’re using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them for a softer texture.

Chili paste is another crucial ingredient that adds depth to the stir-fry. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller quantity and adjust to your taste. Alternatively, you could use sriracha or a milder chili sauce as substitutes, but be mindful that these may alter the overall flavor profile slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant and satisfying stir-fry.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons chili paste
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup roasted cashews (optional)
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Spicy Cucumber & Chicken Stir-Fry.

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and slice all the vegetables. Ensure the chicken is cut into thin bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Sauce

Stir in the garlic, cucumber, and bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the soy sauce, chili paste, and oyster sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Finish and Serve

If using, toss in the roasted cashews for added crunch. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.

Enjoy this flavorful dish right away for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, garnish with sliced fresh chili or green onions before serving. This dish is also fantastic when made with shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stir-fry is ideal for meal prepping as it stores well in the refrigerator. After cooking, cool the stir-fry completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored for up to three days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the softer the cucumbers will become, so for the best texture, try to consume it within a day or two.

If you're planning to reheat this dish, do it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too dry. This will help to revive the dish and maintain the integrity of the vegetables. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious as it can overcook the vegetables quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Spicy Cucumber & Chicken Stir-Fry over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or tuck it into warm noodles for a comforting meal. If you want to elevate it a little more, garnishing with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add an appealing touch and a burst of flavor.

For a lighter option, consider serving this stir-fry in lettuce cups. It not only looks appealing but also offers a fun, hands-on dining experience. Additionally, you could pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies and color on your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, snap peas, or even carrots would work wonderfully in this stir-fry.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

You can reduce the amount of chili paste or use a mild sauce instead for less heat.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.

→ What can I serve this with?

It's great over rice, noodles, or even on its own as a light meal!