This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish full of colorful veggies and tender chicken. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the garlic and soy sauce that bring everything together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this stir fry. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor, or go for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil is great for stir frying, you can substitute it with canola oil, grapeseed oil, or even peanut oil for a hint of nuttiness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh tastes better!
Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Use what you have on hand or your family’s favorites!
Oyster Sauce: If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try mushroom sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy chicken in this stir fry is not to overcook it. Cook on medium-high heat for just 5-6 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Thinner slices help it cook quickly and evenly.
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this causes steaming rather than searing.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a couple of minutes; this helps retain juices.
What’s the Best Way to Keep My Veggies Crisp?
To keep your veggies crispy and colorful, follow these tips:
- Stir-fry over high heat to cook quickly.
- Add harder vegetables like onions and bell peppers first, then softer ones like mushrooms.
- Don’t overcook; aim for 4-5 minutes. You want them tender but still with a crunch!
Enjoy making your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry; it’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing and slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips. Thin slices help the chicken cook faster and make it more tender. Also, slice all the vegetables: onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes or until it’s browned and no longer pink. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Next, toss in the sliced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and mushrooms. Stir-fry the veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You want those vibrant colors to pop!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the veggies. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, chili flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and honey or brown sugar. Pour this delicious sauce over the chicken and veggies. Stir well to make sure everything is coated in that lovely sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Taste your stir fry and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed. Once everything is just right, serve it over a bed of steamed white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and garlicky goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quicker method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, slice it thinly for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce alternative, tamari is a great gluten-free option, and coconut aminos can work for those avoiding soy altogether. You can also mix low-sodium chicken broth with a little vinegar for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Consider adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce to maintain moisture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add green beans, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
