Laziji

Laziji (辣子鸡) is a classic Sichuan dish consisting of marinated and deep-fried pieces of chicken, stir-fried with dried chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, ginger, garlic, and scallions. The chicken is typically cut into small, bite-sized pieces, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and garlic, and then deep-fried until crispy. The fried chicken is then stir-fried with a generous amount of dried chili peppers (usually facing heaven peppers), Sichuan peppercorns, ginger, garlic, and scallions. The combination of these ingredients creates a fiery, numbing, and savory flavor profile that is characteristic of Sichuan cuisine.

The dish is known for its abundance of chili peppers, often appearing to have more peppers than chicken. While the peppers contribute significantly to the flavor and aroma, they are often not eaten directly. The chicken pieces are usually located amongst the peppers, making it almost a treasure hunt to find them.

Laziji is typically served hot and is a popular dish in Sichuan restaurants both within China and internationally. It is often served as an appetizer or as part of a multi-course meal. Variations exist, with some recipes including peanuts, sesame seeds, or other additions to enhance the flavor and texture. The dish's spiciness can also vary depending on the amount and type of chili peppers used.