Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken breast with colorful vegetables in a savory garlic sauce. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2-3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
- Cut Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Slice the yellow bell pepper, mushrooms, and cut the broccoli into florets if not pre-cut.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add Oil and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the sliced yellow bell pepper, mushrooms, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Combine Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, chicken broth, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Sauce to Skillet:
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
- Return Chicken:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is well-coated.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Garlic Chicken Stir Fry hot, over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired. Enjoy this quick and flavorful meal with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or baby corn.
- Sauce: For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 1 tablespoon. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a sliced chili pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
- Add Lemon:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
Ginger Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
- Add Ginger:
- Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the garlic when cooking for a fragrant and zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Rice:
- Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a classic pairing.
- With Noodles:
- Pair with cooked noodles such as rice noodles, lo mein, or udon for a satisfying meal.
Beverages
- With Green Tea:
- Enjoy with a cup of hot green tea or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
- With Lemon Water:
- Serve with a glass of lemon-infused water for a light and refreshing beverage.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stir fry ahead of time? A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Cook just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet to avoid excess water.
Q: Can I use a different type of protein? A: Yes, you can use other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use low-sodium soy sauce? A: Yes, low-sodium soy sauce can be used to reduce the overall sodium content. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory garlic sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with your family and friends!
