If you’re craving a dish that packs vibrant colors, bold flavors, and that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen, the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines tender chicken strips with a medley of crisp bell peppers and sweet onions, all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky sauce that balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes perfectly. Paired with fluffy steamed rice, it’s the kind of meal that feels special yet comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is simple, but each one plays a crucial role in bringing together the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in this stir-fry. Fresh vegetables provide crunch and vibrancy, while sauces deliver depth and richness.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Sliced thin for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of cheerful red color.
- 1 green bell pepper: Gives a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that balances the peppers.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Brings brightness and a mild zing to the dish.
- 1 medium onion: Sliced to add subtle sweetness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Neutral oil perfect for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides salty umami that forms the base of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a rich, savory depth for complexity.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Gives a touch of sweetness and enhances the sauce’s body.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a bright, tangy lift to balance richness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A fragrant finish that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances savory and tanginess with gentle sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor in this sizzling stir-fry, offering that signature aromatic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds warmth and subtle heat to the mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for those who like a little extra kick.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious coating.
- Steamed white rice: The perfect, fluffy bed that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a nutty crunch garnish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the thinly sliced chicken strips, cooking them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and fully cooked through. Cooking the chicken first ensures it stays juicy and gets that lovely sear flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside — your stir-fry base is ready!
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Peppers and Onion
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add your colorful trio of sliced bell peppers along with the onion. Stir-fry these gorgeous veggies for 3 to 4 minutes, just enough so they soften slightly while retaining their vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. This step brings freshness and texture that really make the dish pop.
Step 3: Add the Garlic for Aroma
Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is crucial because garlic releases its fragrant oils and infuses the entire stir-fry with a mouthwatering aroma. Be careful not to burn it; just a quick stir is enough to awaken its flavor.
Step 4: Whisk and Add the Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this luscious sauce over the sizzling vegetables in the skillet, and bring it to a gentle simmer. This mix of sauces creates a perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and tang that coats every ingredient.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you love a thicker, more clingy sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the pan. Let everything simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens just right, enveloping the chicken and veggies in a glossy finish.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss it all together with the sauce and vegetables. Make sure every strip and slice is coated in that flavorful sauce. This step is where everything truly comes together into the classic Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe you’re about to enjoy.
Step 7: Serve Over Steamed Rice
Spoon your vibrant stir-fry over freshly steamed white rice. The rice’s neutral flavor is the perfect partner, soaking up all those saucy delights. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro on top, adding layers of texture and herbal brightness. Serve immediately while everything is still sizzling hot!
How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like sesame seeds add a pleasant crunch and nutty depth, while fresh cilantro brings a lively herbaceous note that cuts through the savory richness beautifully. Think about adding thinly sliced green onions or even a wedge of lime for a zesty twist that amps up the freshness.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with sides that complement its bold flavors without overpowering them. Light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables provide refreshing contrast, while steamed dumplings or spring rolls can turn it into a festive feast. Keep it simple when in doubt — a crisp green salad always hits the spot.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in individual mini woks or colorful bowls that show off the vibrancy of the peppers. Layering it over fried rice instead of steamed rice adds an extra flavor dimension. You can even toss it with cooked noodles for a noodle stir-fry version that’s just as irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe will stay delicious for up to 3 days. The peppers maintain a nice tender-crisp texture, keeping every bite satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. However, note that the texture of the bell peppers may soften after freezing, so consider freezing the chicken separately if you prefer firmer veggies. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps revive the saucy goodness without drying out the chicken or veggies. Microwaving works, but stirring halfway through ensures even warmth and keeps everything tender.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, beef strips, tofu, or even pork make fantastic substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly — shrimp cooks faster, while beef may benefit from marinating first.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes, adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce can easily give the dish an exciting kick. Fresh chopped chilies are another excellent option to amp up the heat.
What’s the best rice to serve with this stir-fry?
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully because of their fragrant aromas and fluffy texture. You can also opt for brown rice for a healthier, nuttier alternative.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the chicken for firm tofu and make sure to use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce to keep the rich umami flavor. Load up extra veggies to keep it hearty.
Why is cornstarch used in the recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the sauce that glossy, clingy consistency that coats the chicken and vegetables wonderfully. It’s optional but definitely worth it if you prefer a richer sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and exciting every time you make it. It’s quick, colorful, and bursting with flavor — perfect for sharing with family or friends any night of the week. Give it a try and let the sizzling pan aromas fill your home while you enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it looks. You’re going to love making this recipe your go-to stir-fry!
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Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and quick Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry featuring tender chicken strips cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory garlic sauce, served over steamed white rice. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasonings and Others
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Steamed white rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Prepare and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Pour this sauce mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet, stirring continuously and simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and distribute the vegetables throughout.
- Serve: Spoon the sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and sizzling for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra heat, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce with gluten-free alternatives.
- Vegetables can be varied according to preference; snap peas or broccoli florets are good additions.
- Ensure the chicken is sliced thinly for even and quick cooking.
- Using a wok can help achieve better stir-fry results, but a large skillet works well too.
- Serve immediately to maintain the dish’s vibrant texture and flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
