Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers and Steamed Rice
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a flavorful, quick, and healthy dish packed with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a bold garlic sauce. Served with steamed rice, this dish delivers a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, as it’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Stir-Fry
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For the Garlic Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For the Steamed Rice:
1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice
3 cups water
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and salt, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
4. In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This helps create a crispy texture when stir-fried.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken and Vegetables
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, followed by the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the garlic sauce. Stir well and let the sauce thicken for 1–2 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, Including Rice)
Calories: ~450
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 700mg
Notes & Tips
Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Low-carb version: Serve with cauliflower rice or skip the rice altogether.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
Gluten-free option: Use Tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce.
Meal prep: This stir-fry keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers?
A: Yes, but they will release more water. Cook them on high heat to avoid sogginess.
Q: What’s the best way to keep the chicken tender?
A: Coating it in cornstarch before stir-frying helps seal in moisture and creates a light crust.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Try adding broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for variety.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it sits, so add a splash of water when reheating.