This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is quick, tasty, and perfect for a busy weeknight! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies and coated in a yummy garlic sauce that will make your mouth water.
I love how easy this dish is! Just chop, stir, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies. Who knew eating healthy could be so fun? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a substitute, try sliced thigh meat for more flavor, or tofu for a vegetarian option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Vegetables: Red bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas are lovely choices, adding color and crunch. Feel free to use other veggies like carrots, asparagus, or zucchini if they’re in your fridge!
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must for depth of flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari sauce. The oyster sauce adds umami richness. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a plant-based alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken just right is key to a great stir fry. Here’s the breakdown:
- Make sure your skillet or wok is hot! Preheat your pan so that the chicken sears rather than steams.
- Cut your chicken into thin, even slices. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Cook in batches if your pan is crowded. This way, each piece gets the right amount of heat.
- Don’t overcook! Once the chicken is white and slightly golden (about 5-6 minutes), remove it from the pan to avoid dryness.
Following these tips will help ensure your chicken stays juicy and delicious!
Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stir Fry:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tsp brown sugar or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice
- Sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Garlic Chicken Stir Fry will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a speedy meal, perfect for those busy nights when you crave something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. This savory mixture adds flavor to the dish. Set it aside for now!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s white and slightly golden. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions, stir-frying for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant and the onions start to soften. The aroma is going to make you hungry!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the broccoli, snap peas, and red bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the veggies are tender yet still have a nice crunch. Keep stirring to prevent them from burning!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the sauce mixture over everything and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, whether you like it mild or a bit spicy is up to you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the stir fry from heat. Sprinkle with green onions and, if you’d like, add some sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for that extra touch. Serve it immediately over warm cooked white rice, and get ready to dig in!
Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful garlic chicken stir fry! It’s delicious, healthy, and sure to become a family favorite.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it is fully thawed before slicing and cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water until soft.
What if I Don’t Have All the Vegetables?
No problem! This stir fry is flexible. You can use any mix of vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen mixed vegetables. Just adjust the cooking time based on how long it takes for your chosen veggies to become tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back some moisture if needed!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, some sliced jalapeños, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce when cooking for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your personal taste!