This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is quick and tasty! It features tender pieces of chicken tossed with fresh veggies, all coated in a flavorful garlic sauce that will make your mouth water.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just chop, stir, and sizzle away—perfect for busy weeknights. I enjoy serving it over rice or noodles to soak up all that yummy sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast works well too. For a meat-free version, try tofu or tempeh marinated for extra flavor!
Vegetable Oil: You can use vegetable oil, but sesame oil adds lovely flavor. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil is a good substitute and has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but jarred minced garlic can save time. Just use a bit less since it’s often more potent. Don’t forget to adjust if you’re not a huge garlic fan!
Veggies: Red bell pepper adds sweetness, but green bell pepper or even broccoli or zucchini can work just as well. The goal is to have colorful veggies, so pick what you like!
Fresh Herbs: Basil or cilantro adds freshness at the end. If you don’t have either, a sprinkle of green onions can do the trick too, adding a nice crunch and flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken to perfection is all about timing and heat. It should be tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut chicken into thin slices to ensure quick, even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary for a nice sear.
- Cook on medium-high heat to achieve that golden brown color, about 5-7 minutes.
- Always check for doneness by cutting into a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil or cilantro leaves
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 20-25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken to the pan. Lightly season with salt and pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden on the edges. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Swirl it around, and then add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning!
3. Add More Veggies:
Now, add the sliced red bell pepper and snow peas to the pan. Stir-fry everything for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender-crisp and still bright in color, so don’t overcook them!
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and add the crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Stir everything together so the sauces coat both the chicken and vegetables evenly.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water now. Cook for another minute until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve:
Finally, remove the stir fry from heat and stir in the fresh basil or cilantro leaves. This will add a burst of fresh flavor! Serve your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry immediately over hot steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also a quick and healthy option loaded with bright veggies and savory chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to completely thaw the chicken before cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before slicing to ensure better browning.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to get creative! If you don’t have snow peas or red bell peppers, try using broccoli, zucchini, or even carrots. The goal is to include colorful, crisp vegetables, so use what you enjoy or have on hand!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or sauté in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to moisten the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha or chili sauce as you stir everything together. Adjust to your preferred heat level for an extra kick!