Thai Dynamite from Pei Wei features tender chicken and fresh bell peppers stir-fried with spicy red chili sauce and aromatic garlic, served over steamed jasmine rice, delivering a vibrant and fiery flavor with a colorful, appetizing presentation.
Equipments
- Wok
- Wok spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Rice cooker or pot
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Plate or serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons sambal oelek (chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 green onions
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
When preparing Thai Dynamite from Pei Wei, use boneless, skinless chicken breast to ensure tender, juicy meat that absorbs the spicy red chili sauce well. Fresh red and green bell peppers add vibrant color and crisp texture, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Sambal oelek provides the signature fiery heat, so adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. Combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce creates a balanced umami base essential for authentic taste. Your homemade Thai Dynamite copycat dish will feature the same bold, aromatic flavors and colorful appeal as the restaurant version, served perfectly over steamed jasmine rice.
Instructions
- Slice chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice red and green bell peppers into thin strips.
- Chop green onions; mince garlic.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, sambal oelek, cornstarch, and water to make the sauce.
- Heat wok over high heat; add vegetable oil.
- Add minced garlic; stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add chicken; stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add bell peppers; stir-fry 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Pour sauce into wok; toss to coat evenly, cooking until sauce thickens.
- Add green onions; toss briefly.
- Serve stir-fry immediately over steamed jasmine rice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Substitution
Thai Dynamite from Pei Wei copycat menu captures the bold flavors of tender chicken and colorful bell peppers stir-fried in a spicy red chili sauce with aromatic garlic over fragrant jasmine rice. If you can't find sambal oelek, substitute with any chili paste or hot sauce you have on hand to maintain the dish's heat. Should oyster sauce be unavailable, a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar can mimic its sweetness and umami. Using a wok is ideal for quick, high-heat cooking that preserves the crispness of the vegetables, but a large skillet will also work in a pinch. Make sure to mix the cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce to ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
Tips
Cut chicken and bell peppers uniform in size to ensure even cooking and consistent texture. Preheat the wok until very hot before adding oil to prevent sticking and achieve a good sear on the chicken. Mix cornstarch with water thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sauce, which will help thicken it smoothly. You can adjust sambal oelek to control the spice level to match your taste preferences.
Nutritions
Thai Dynamite from Pei Wei provides a balanced meal rich in protein from the tender chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Bell peppers contribute a vibrant source of vitamins A and C, supporting immune health and antioxidative functions. The inclusion of jasmine rice offers a steady supply of carbohydrates, fueling your energy needs throughout the day. This dish's blend of spicy chili paste and garlic also promotes metabolic benefits while keeping the flavor bold and satisfying.
Storage
Store leftover Thai Dynamite in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3 to 4 days to ensure food safety and optimal flavor. When reheating, gently warm the dish in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally so your chicken and vegetables retain their texture over the jasmine rice.
Variation or Alternatives
For a milder version, you can substitute sambal oelek with sweet chili sauce or reduce its amount to suit your spice tolerance. Try swapping chicken breast for shrimp or tofu to accommodate different protein preferences while maintaining texture variety. Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a healthier or low-carb alternative. You can also marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Allergies
Thai Dynamite contains common allergens including soy from soy sauce, shellfish from oyster sauce, and fish from fish sauce, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes chili paste and garlic, which may cause irritation or allergies for some. If you have allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients, consult with the restaurant or prepare a modified version to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
Thai Dynamite from Pei Wei restaurant is celebrated for its bold fusion of spicy Thai flavors and savory ingredients, creating a vibrant taste experience. The dish features a balanced blend of fresh vegetables, chili peppers, and tender protein, delivering both heat and freshness that satisfy diverse palates. You will appreciate the complex yet approachable flavor profile when attempting a copycat recipe, making it a rewarding cooking challenge. Replicating Thai Dynamite at home allows for customization of spice levels and ingredient quality, enhancing both taste and health benefits.