Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a classic, vibrant dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp, colorful vegetables all tossed in a savory garlic sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Growing up, my family always enjoyed stir fries because they were a great way to use up leftover vegetables and create a nutritious meal in no time. I remember the sizzle of the pan and the aromatic smell of garlic filling the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. It’s these simple, yet flavorful dishes that create lasting memories and bring people together.
Ingredients
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
1 tbsp + 1 tsp 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 tbsp soy sauce
¾ cup chicken broth
1 ½ tsp sugar
2 tsp sesame oil
2 tsp cornstarch
Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables and Chicken
Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the vegetables to ensure a good sear.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, and yellow bell pepper to the heated skillet. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to become tender but still retain some crispness. This step is crucial for maintaining the vibrant colors and fresh textures of the vegetables.
Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the skillet, cover them to keep warm, and set them aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the now-empty skillet. Add the cubed chicken breast pieces to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly cooked by stirring frequently and allowing them to brown slightly for added flavor.
Preparing the Sauce
Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 ½ teaspoons of sugar, ¾ cup of chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Whisk together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth. This sauce will add a delicious, savory glaze to the stir fry.
Combining and Cooking
Recombine Chicken and Vegetables:
Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Add the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
Pour the Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the ingredients with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
Serve:
Your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is now ready to serve! For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of white rice or brown rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite delicious.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives: You can substitute the chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Snap peas, carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers of any color can be great additions or substitutions.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Lower Carb: Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or simply enjoy it on its own for a lower carb meal.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a wonderfully versatile dish that brings together the best of fresh vegetables and tender chicken in a savory, garlicky sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious.
What makes this dish so appealing is its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your liking. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season. The process of stir-frying ensures that the vegetables retain their color and crunch, while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
The sauce, with its perfect balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness, ties everything together beautifully. Serving it over rice completes the meal, making it a well-rounded dinner option.
Cooking Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is not just about creating a meal; it’s about enjoying the process of bringing together fresh ingredients to create something delicious and wholesome. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this easy and satisfying stir fry.
