SZECHUAN CHICKEN WITH NOODLES Serves 4 or 5

1 pkg. Chow Mein noodles cooked according to package directions.
3 Tbsp. peanut or vegetable oil (set aside 1 Tbsp.)
1 lg. clove garlic minced
2 tsp. grated fresh ginger
2 whole medium chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs. total) skinned boned and cut into 1 inch pieces
2 cups Chinese pea pods cut in half
1 sweet red bell pepper cut into thin strips
3 scallions cut into pieces
salt and pepper to taste

SAUCE:
1/4 plus cup plus 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
2 Tbsp. rice vinegar
2 tsp. chili oil (optional)
1 Tbsp. Asian sweet chili sauce
1 tsp. dark sesame oil
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 or cup or more coarsely chopped peanuts

METHOD:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, sweet chili sauce sesame oil and red pepper flakes. Mix and set aside.

In a wok or large skillet heat 2 Tbsp. cooking oil. Saute garlic and ginger for 30 seconds being careful not to burn. Add chicken pieces and saute for about 5 minutes til chicken is cooked and golden brown.

Add the additional 1 Tbsp. oil and the pea pods, bell pepper and scallions. Cook over medium high heat for about 5 minutes stirring often. Season with salt and pepper.

Add cooked noodles to the skillet, toss to mix then add the sauce ingredients. Mix then serve immediately. Top each serving with about 1 Tbsp. or more chopped peanuts.