Description
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is packed with bold garlic flavor, tender chicken, and vibrant peppers tossed in a glossy, savory sauce. Quick, satisfying, and restaurant-quality, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Introduction
Stir-fries are one of the fastest and most flavorful cooking methods, and this dish delivers everything you want: juicy chicken, fragrant garlic and ginger, colorful vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sauce. Served over steamed rice, it becomes a comforting, complete meal that tastes like it came straight from a wok-fired Asian kitchen. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious and fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Packed with garlic and aromatics
• Great for meal prep and reheats well
• Easily customizable with vegetables or extra spice
• Healthy, colorful, and well balanced
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade
1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry Sauce
⅓ cup chicken broth or water
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but highly recommended)
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sugar or honey
½ teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry
3 tablespoons neutral oil, divided
6–8 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 large bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
2–3 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
For Serving
Steamed jasmine or white rice
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce and Vegetables
In a small bowl, whisk together broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, sugar, and sesame oil.
Chop garlic, ginger, bell pepper, onion, and green onions. Keep everything ready near the stove.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot.
Add 2 tablespoons oil and swirl to coat.
Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes without stirring.
Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until cooked and golden. Remove to a plate.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables & Aromatics
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant (avoid burning).
Add the bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Combine and Thicken
Return the chicken to the wok.
Stir the sauce (cornstarch settles) and pour it in.
Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the ingredients.
Add the green onions and remove from heat.
6. Serve
Serve hot over steamed jasmine or white rice.
Variations
• Add broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots
• Use chili garlic sauce or dried chilies for extra heat
• Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu
• Add toasted cashews or peanuts for crunch
Tips for Best Results
• Use very high heat for the signature “wok-hay” flavor
• Do not overcrowd the pan—cook chicken in batches if needed
• Keep all ingredients prepared before cooking; stir-frying is fast
• Stir the sauce again before pouring—it thickens instantly
Storage Tips
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat over medium heat in a skillet or in the microwave
• Store rice separately to prevent sogginess
Serving Suggestions
• Serve with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice
• Add a side of steamed broccoli or Asian cucumber salad
• Garnish with sesame seeds or extra green onions
FAQs
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—cook everything, cool fully, and store for meal prep.
Can I skip the oyster sauce?
Yes, but it adds depth. If skipping, add an extra ½ teaspoon soy sauce.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely—add chili flakes or a spoon of chili garlic sauce.
Conclusion
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With tender chicken, fragrant aromatics, and a glossy, savory sauce, it’s a meal you’ll make again and again. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or whenever you want takeout-quality food at home.