Turn down the AC, because things are about to get toasty in your kitchen. From subtle sizzles to full-blown firefests, we’ve rounded up 19 spicy dishes that’ll awaken those taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned spice seeker or just looking to dip your toes into the world of chilies, this list promises a flavorful adventure. Grab your apron, and let the culinary heatwave begin.
![low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/kung-pao-hero-1-scaled-1-1024x576.jpg)
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
![Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/salt-and-pepper-chicken-16-x-9.jpg)
These wings offer a balanced kick of salt and spice. By merging classic seasoning with a twist of heat, this dish is a crowd favorite. It’s an ideal choice for those new to spicy foods. The flavor is assertive without being overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Salpicon de Res
![Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/salpicon-tostadas-la-horiz-4-1-1.jpg)
A traditional shredded beef salad from Mexico, Salpicon de Res combines the richness of beef with spicy jalapeños. It’s a refreshing yet fiery blend of flavors. This recipe is perfect for those seeking to blend zest with robustness.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res
Gochujang Noodles
![Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/gochujang-noodles-fdl.jpg)
Gochujang, a Korean red chili paste, is the star of this noodle dish. It provides a deep, spicy flavor profile that’s tempered by the softness of the noodles. This is a wonderful exploration of Korean spice for any palate.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles
Chicken 65
![overhead shot of a plate of chicken 65.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-65-3.jpg)
An iconic dish from South India, Chicken 65 melds spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. The blend of spices in this dish makes it a beloved favorite among spice lovers. It’s a testament to the varied spicy flavors of Indian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65
Camarones a la Diabla
![Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/camarones-diabla-la-horiz-1-1.jpg)
This dish translates to “Devil’s Shrimp”. It features shrimp smothered in a spicy chili sauce. The sauce’s heat is a delightful contrast to the shrimp’s sweetness. A perfect dish for those looking for seafood with a punch.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla
Spicy Miso Ramen
![https://allwaysdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/spicy-miso-ramen-temp-1.jpg](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/spicy-miso-ramen-temp-1-1.jpg)
Japanese cuisine is celebrated with this spicy take on ramen. Miso broth meets chili for a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating. For noodle lovers, this dish is a spicy haven that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Miso Ramen
Gochujang Chicken
![Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Gochujang-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
Another dish starring the fiery gochujang paste, this chicken is marinated in the sauce. The result is a dish that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. It showcases the versatility of Korean flavors in a familiar form.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken
Chicken Curry Laksa
![laksa in a white bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-laksa.jpg)
This Malaysian curry noodle soup melds coconut, spices, and chili. The combination creates a creamy yet spicy broth. Chicken Curry Laksa is a great representation of Southeast Asian spicy cuisines.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa
Harissa Chicken
![harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Harissa-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
Featuring the North African chili paste, harissa, this chicken dish is aromatic and fiery. It offers a distinctive blend of spices from the Maghreb region. The flavors are bold and the spice level can be adjusted to preference.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken
Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken
![Low angle shot of korean fried chicken with a hand holding a piece of the chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AF-Korean-Fried-Chicken-1600.jpg)
This chicken is crispy, with a spicy and sweet glaze. Using an air fryer ensures a healthier version without compromising flavor. It’s an innovative way to enjoy the punch of Korean spices.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
![A bowl of grits topped with cajun shrimp.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shrimp-and-grits-horiz.jpg)
This dish brings together the zest of Cajun seasoning with the creaminess of grits. The shrimp provide a burst of flavor against the subtle backdrop of the grits. A southern favorite, it introduces a manageable heat.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cucumber Kimchi
![Cucumber kimchi on a white plate with a pair of chopsticks lifting a slice of cucumber.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cucumber-Kimchi-1600.jpg)
A less common form of kimchi, this recipe focuses on cucumbers. They are fermented with traditional spices, providing a crunchy and spicy delight. It’s a refreshing side dish or palate cleanser with heat.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi
Kung Pao Chicken
![low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/kung-pao-hero-1-scaled-1.jpg)
A beloved Chinese dish, Kung Pao Chicken combines chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers. Its sauce is a blend of salty, sweet, and spicy. This dish is a great way to delve into the rich world of Chinese spice.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Thai Larb
![Low angle shot of a striped bowl filled with Thai larb salad garnished with shallot slices.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Thai-Larb-Salad-1600.jpg)
This meat salad from Thailand showcases ground meat with chili and lime. The flavors are bright, tangy, and spicy. Thai Larb is a celebration of simplicity and heat, proving that few ingredients can create a flavor explosion.
Get the Recipe: Thai Larb
Spicy Cucumber Salad
![Overhead shot of spicy cucumber salad in a black bowl with a fancy serving spoon on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Spicy-Cucumber-Salad-1600.jpg)
This salad features cucumber slices tossed in a chili dressing. The coolness of the cucumber offsets the spicy dressing. It’s a simple yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for a spicy side or light meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad
Mango Habanero Salsa
![Overhead shot of a bowl of mango habanero salsa with a hand lifting a spoonful of the salsa.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mango-habanero-salsa.jpg)
A fruity yet fiery salsa, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the heat of habanero. It’s perfect for those seeking a tropical twist on traditional spicy salsas. The contrast of flavors is both surprising and delightful.
Get the Recipe: Mango Habanero Salsa
Mongolian Chicken
![Overhead shot of a bowl of mongolian chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/mongolian-chicken-7.jpg)
This dish boasts a spicy and savory sauce that coats tender chicken pieces. It represents the bold flavors typical of Mongolian cuisine. It’s a wonderful introduction for those curious about Central Asian spicy dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken
Thai Chicken Satay
![overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-satay-6.jpg)
Skewered and grilled, this chicken is served with a spicy peanut sauce. The dish embodies the flavors of Thai street food. It’s a great example of how Thai cuisine balances spice with other savory and sweet elements.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay
Sriracha Ranch
![A bowl of sriracha ranch dressing.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Sriracha-ranch-overhead-hero-1.jpg)
This fusion of the classic ranch dressing with the heat of Sriracha results in a creamy, spicy dip. It’s versatile, suitable for salads, chips, or as a sauce. A modern blend, it represents how traditional flavors can be given a spicy twist.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha Ranch