Introduction

Craving a restaurant-quality meal in a hurry? This is the BEST 20-Minute Garlic Chicken Stir Fry Recipe you’ll find, delivering sizzling flavor with minimal effort. Tender chicken, crisp peppers, and a bold garlic sauce come together in one pan for a satisfying dinner. For another quick garlic-infused favorite, try the Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice, where the aroma of fresh garlic and sizzling chicken will fill your kitchen with anticipation.

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into thin strips
• 2 tbsp cornstarch, divided
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 4-6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup jasmine rice (or other long-grain rice)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt for rice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• For marinade: 1/8 tsp salt, pinch white pepper, 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp water, 1 tbsp oil
• For sauce: 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/8 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/3 cup water, dash dark soy sauce (for color)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice is ready in about 30 minutes, making it roughly 20% faster than many similar stir-fry recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Ingredients

Slice 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs into thin, uniform strips. Julienne one red bell pepper and one green bell pepper, and thinly slice one large onion. Mince 6–8 cloves of garlic. Separately, whisk together the sauce: ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch.

Step 2 — Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken strips in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Massage the marinade into the chicken until each piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you start your rice and prep other ingredients.

Step 3 — Cook the Rice

Rinse 1.5 cups of jasmine or long-grain rice until the water runs clear. Combine with 2 cups of water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steam, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 4 — Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a clean plate.

Tip: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.

Step 5 — Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Immediately add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and slightly charred at the edges.

Step 6 — Combine and Simmer with Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Give the prepared sauce a quick re-whisk to redistribute the cornstarch, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens, becomes glossy, and coats every piece.

Step 7 — Final Sizzle and Serve

For the signature sizzle, drizzle ½ teaspoon of sesame oil around the edge of the hot wok just before finishing. Give the stir-fry one final toss. Serve the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers immediately over a bed of the steamed rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~55 g
Fat	~15 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~850 mg

This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice is a balanced meal, providing a good source of protein from the chicken and vitamin C from the bell peppers. The values are per serving and are estimates based on standard ingredient measurements and cooking methods.

Healthier Alternatives

This sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some practical swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Swap (Tofu or Tempeh) — For a plant-based version, use extra-firm tofu or tempeh. Press and cube it, then pan-fry until crispy. It soaks up the garlic sauce beautifully.
• Lower-Carb Option (Cauliflower Rice) — Swap the steamed rice for cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to enjoy the sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry with peppers while reducing carbs.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation (Tamari or Coconut Aminos) — Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. This keeps the dish gluten-free and adds a slightly sweeter, umami depth.
• Dairy-Free Adjustment (Toasted Sesame Oil) — If the recipe calls for butter, use a dash of toasted sesame oil to finish. It adds a rich, nutty aroma that complements the garlic perfectly.
• Low-Sodium Version (Low-Sodium Soy & Fresh Herbs) — Use a low-sodium soy sauce and boost flavor with extra fresh ginger, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime at the end.
• Extra Veggie Boost (Broccoli or Snap Peas) — Add broccoli florets or snap peas along with the peppers. They add color, texture, and nutrients, making the stir-fry even more hearty.
• Spice Variation (Chili Garlic Sauce) — For a kick, stir in a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or sambal oelek with the other sauce ingredients. It transforms the dish into a spicy garlic chicken stir-fry.
• Nut-Free Option (Sunflower Seed Butter) — If using a peanut-based sauce, substitute with sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy, nutty flavor that’s allergy-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

• For a complete meal, pair this Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice with a simple cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli.
• Elevate your plating by serving the stir-fry directly on a bed of fluffy steamed rice in a shallow bowl, allowing the savory sauce to soak in.
• This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for casual entertaining, as it comes together quickly and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions just before serving for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• For a heartier option, consider serving the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers alongside fried rice or lo mein noodles instead of plain steamed rice.
• To make it a feast, start with a light soup like egg drop or hot and sour soup before diving into the main course.

The vibrant colors of the peppers against the golden chicken make this stir-fry visually appealing, so serve it in a white or neutral-colored dish to let the food shine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using a cold pan or wok. Fix: Heat your pan until it’s smoking hot before adding oil to achieve the signature sizzle and sear for your Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan with chicken. Fix: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure each piece browns properly instead of steaming, which is key for texture.
• Mistake: Adding garlic too early. Fix: Stir-fry garlic for just 30 seconds at the end to infuse the oil without burning, preserving its aromatic punch.
• Mistake: Cutting peppers and chicken unevenly. Fix: Slice all ingredients to a similar, bite-sized thickness so they cook evenly and quickly in the hot wok.
• Mistake: Using low-sodium soy sauce without adjustment. Fix: If using low-sodium soy sauce, taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt to prevent a bland stir-fry sauce.
• Mistake: Stir-frying constantly. Fix: Let ingredients sit for 30-60 seconds in the hot pan to develop a flavorful sear and wok hei (breath of the wok).
• Mistake: Adding sauce all at once. Fix: Pour your sauce mixture down the hot sides of the wok so it thickens and caramelizes instantly upon contact.
• Mistake: Serving with under-seasoned or mushy rice. Fix: Rinse your rice before steaming and salt the cooking water to ensure fluffy, flavorful grains that complement the stir-fry.
• Mistake: Skipping the final toss. Fix: Give everything one last vigorous toss in the hot wok just before serving to evenly coat every piece with the sizzling garlic sauce.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store the steamed rice separately in its own container for best texture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled stir-fry (without rice) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Add a splash of water or broth to the stir-fry to refresh the sauce. Freshen steamed rice with a sprinkle of water before reheating.

Always use shallow containers for rapid cooling and never leave cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours.

Conclusion

This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice is a quick, flavor-packed weeknight winner. For another easy chicken dinner, try our Feta Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use a different protein for this stir-fry?

Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is properly cooked through while keeping the vegetables crisp. The sizzling garlic sauce will still pair wonderfully with your choice.

What’s the best way to get the chicken sizzling and crispy?

For a truly sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry with peppers, ensure your pan or wok is very hot before adding the oil and chicken. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this steams the meat. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear and that signature crispy texture.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time, but for the best texture, cook the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers just before serving. The high-heat stir-fry method is key to the dish’s signature crisp-tender vegetables and seared chicken, which can soften if reheated.