Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

It was one of those evenings—piano class ran late, homework was still untouched, and the fridge looked like it hadn’t been loved in days. I remember standing there, barefoot on the cool tile, wondering how to pull off dinner before the hangry grumbles started echoing from the living room.

I spotted two chicken breasts, half a bell pepper, and a garlic bulb that had seen better days. Somehow, that little bulb saved dinner.

This garlic chicken stir fry came together in less than 25 minutes, and the best part? It tasted like something we’d order on a good night out—except fresher, brighter, and without the sodium bomb. The kids licked their plates. My husband actually asked if I’d made extra. I didn’t. Rookie move.

Now this dish is in regular rotation—flavor-packed, veggie-flexible, and weeknight-proof.

Short Description

Garlic chicken stir fry is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and a bold garlic sauce. Perfect for busy nights, it’s healthy, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the chicken and vegetables:

• 500g (1.1 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the garlic stir-fry sauce:

• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1 tsp sugar

Optional additions and swaps:

• Use boneless chicken thighs for more flavor
• Swap broccoli with snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini
• For low-sodium, use reduced-salt soy sauce
• Make it spicy with chili flakes or a splash of sriracha

Tools Needed

• Wok or large nonstick skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl (for sauce)
• Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Slice the chicken thinly against the grain. Chop all vegetables and set aside. Mix the sauce ingredients (except slurry) in a small bowl.

Step 2: Cook the chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear without moving for 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
Add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add onion, bell pepper, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Combine and sauce it up
Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything.

Step 5: Final touch
Drizzle with sesame oil, toss again, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast and fuss-free—on the table in under 30 minutes.
Bold garlic flavor with just the right balance of salty, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Customizable with any veggies you have on hand.
Healthier than takeout and just as satisfying.
Kid-friendly and meal-prep approved.

Helpful Tips and Cooking Notes

Slice the chicken evenly so it cooks quickly and stays juicy.

Stir-fry on high heat and keep things moving to avoid soggy vegetables.

Always add the cornstarch slurry at the end—it thickens the sauce perfectly without overcooking the chicken.

Want extra sauce? Double the sauce ingredients, especially if serving over noodles.

You can prep everything in advance and stir-fry just before mealtime for extra speed.

Nutritional Benefits & Fun Facts

Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its immune-boosting and heart-protective benefits. Stir-frying helps retain nutrients in vegetables since it requires minimal cooking time.

This dish is rooted in Chinese home-style cooking, where garlic plays a lead role in adding depth and aroma without the need for fancy ingredients. It’s a great introduction to wok cooking—even if you’re just using a regular skillet.

Final Dish & Serving Suggestions

The chicken is juicy, the broccoli still has a bite, and the garlic sauce glistens, coating every piece with savory goodness. The aroma? Unmistakably comforting.

Serve it over jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles. For extra crunch, top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds. We like adding sliced cucumbers or a cold seaweed salad on the side for balance.

Sometimes I make a double batch just to pack leftovers for lunch—the kind of lunch you actually look forward to.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce is evenly coated to prevent drying.

To freeze: Portion into containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat: Use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long—it can overcook the chicken and turn the vegetables mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

2. How do I make this vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce for a fully plant-based version.

3. Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

4. Can I meal prep this dish?
Definitely. It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead lunch or dinner option.

5. What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can mix soy sauce with a little hoisin or Worcestershire sauce. The flavor won’t be identical, but it’ll still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something comforting about knowing that no matter how busy the day gets, a dish like this Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is always there to bring everyone back to the table. It’s fast, full of flavor, and feels like a little victory in the middle of a hectic week.

For me, it’s more than just dinner—it’s a way to slow down, share a story over the sizzle of garlic, and remind myself that good food doesn’t need to be complicated. I hope this becomes one of those dependable meals for you too—one that feels just right, every single time.