If you want a quick way to add spicy, aromatic flavor to your meals, this homemade chili oil recipe in minutes! is exactly what you need. It’s fast, easy, customizable, and requires only a few basic ingredients. Whether you want mild heat or bold spice, this recipe works for all levels.
⭐ Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2–3 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
1 teaspoon garlic powder or dried minced garlic
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
Oil
½ cup neutral oil such as:
Canola
Vegetable
Sunflower
Peanut oil
(Avoid olive oil—it can burn too quickly.)
Optional Add-Ins
1–2 star anise
A small piece of cinnamon stick
1–2 dried bay leaves
Fresh sliced ginger
Sesame seeds
These add extra flavor but are totally optional.
🍳 How to Make It (Safely & Quickly)
1. Prepare the Chili Mix
In a heat-safe bowl, combine:
Chili flakes
Garlic
Salt
Optional paprika
Optional sesame seeds
Set aside.
2. Heat the Oil
Place the oil in a small saucepan.
Add optional whole spices like star anise or ginger if using.
Heat over medium until the oil is hot—but not smoking.
How to tell it’s ready:
Drop in a tiny piece of garlic or chili flake. If it bubbles gently, it’s perfect.
3. Pour the Hot Oil Carefully
Slowly pour the hot oil over the chili mixture.
The mix will sizzle and release amazing aromas.
Stir gently to combine.
4. Cool & Store
Let the chili oil cool completely.
Store in:
A glass jar
A sealed container
It lasts 2–3 weeks on the counter or 1–2 months in the fridge.
😋 How to Use Your Chili Oil
This homemade chili oil recipe in minutes! is incredibly versatile. Try it on:
Ramen or noodle bowls
Stir-fries
Dumplings or potstickers
Eggs
Avocado toast
Soups
Pizza
Rice dishes
Grilled veggies
A little goes a long way!
🌶 Spice Level Tips
Want it milder?
Use fewer chili flakes
Add more paprika for color without heat
Want it hotter?
Add ½ teaspoon chili powder
Mix in Sichuan pepper flakes
Use Thai chili flakes
🧼 Safety Tips
(Especially important for young cooks!)
Heat oil on medium, not high
Keep handles turned inward
Never leave hot oil unattended
Pour slowly to avoid splashing
Let the oil cool before touching the container
✨ Variations to Try
Garlic Chili Oil
Add 1–2 tablespoons of fried garlic for extra flavor.
Sesame Chili Oil
Stir in 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil after cooling.
Ginger Chili Oil
Add fresh ginger slices while heating the oil, then remove before pouring.
Sweet Chili Oil
Add 1 teaspoon honey once the oil cools slightly.
🧊 Storage
Room temp: up to 3 weeks
Refrigerator: 1–2 months
Stir before using—flakes settle naturall