Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

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Imagine tender strips of chicken tossed in a fragrant garlic sauce, perfectly balanced with colorful vegetables and served alongside fluffy, steaming rice. This Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice is a weeknight dinner dream—quick to make, bursting with flavor, and beautiful enough to serve to guests.

With vibrant zucchini, sweet peppers, and a glossy savory glaze, every bite delivers a mix of textures and tastes. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout, yet feels just as satisfying. Plus, the aroma of sizzling garlic in the pan will have everyone hovering around the kitchen.


Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

This recipe is a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. It’s adaptable for busy nights yet impressive enough for entertaining. You can swap in seasonal vegetables, adjust the spice level, and even make it ahead for meal prep. And because it’s cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze.


What Kind of Rice Should I Serve It With?

Jasmine rice is a favorite for its aromatic, slightly floral quality, which complements the garlic sauce beautifully. Basmati or long-grain white rice also work well for a fluffier texture. If you’re looking for a healthier base, try brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.


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Ingredients for the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Each ingredient in this dish plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture:

  • Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and quick-cooking, making it ideal for stir-frying.
  • Garlic cloves – The star of the show, providing aromatic depth.
  • Soy sauce – Adds savory umami richness.
  • Oyster sauce – Brings a subtle sweetness and extra depth.
  • Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce and coat the chicken.
  • Bell peppers – Colorful crunch that brightens the dish.
  • Zucchini – Mild and tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
  • Carrots – Add sweetness and a pleasing bite.
  • Green onions – Freshness and a gentle onion note.
  • Sesame oil – Nutty aroma to finish the dish.
  • Cooked rice – The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.

How To Make the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, toss sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, a splash of water, and a bit more cornstarch. This creates a glossy, flavorful stir-fry sauce.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until lightly golden and just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, cooking until crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until everything is coated and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the stir-fry over warm rice, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and drizzle with sesame oil before serving.


Serving and Storing Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

This recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner. Serve it fresh and hot, straight from the pan for the best flavor and texture. If storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.


What to Serve With Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice?

Pair this dish with sides that enhance its savory and fresh flavors:

1. Steamed Broccoli

A simple and healthy side that complements the garlicky sauce.

2. Egg Drop Soup

Light and warming, perfect as a starter.

3. Fresh Spring Rolls

Add a refreshing contrast with crunchy vegetables and a light dipping sauce.

4. Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp, balancing the richness of the stir-fry.

5. Garlic Green Beans

Double down on the garlic for an extra punch.

6. Kimchi

For a tangy, spicy kick that cuts through the savory sauce.

7. Sesame Cabbage Slaw

Adds crunch and a nutty note to the meal.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice, you might enjoy these flavorful and satisfying chicken recipes too:


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or swap in tofu for the chicken? Did you make it spicy or keep it mild?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Nora
Fast, fresh, and packed with garlicky goodness—this Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice turns simple ingredients into a crave‑worthy dinner in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a glossy soy–garlic sauce meet fluffy jasmine rice for a satisfying, better‑than‑takeout meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need quick dinner inspiration. Great for “easy dinner,” “quick weeknight meals,” “family dinner ideas,” and “healthy-ish food ideas” that still bring big flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Asian-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rice cooker or saucepan

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts divided)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for chicken)
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions
 

  • Cook Rice – Have 4 cups of hot, cooked jasmine rice ready.
  • Marinate Chicken – Toss sliced chicken with 1 tbsp cornstarch and black pepper; rest 10 minutes.
  • Make Sauce – Whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chicken broth, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth.
  • Heat Pan – Set a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat; add 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
  • Stir-Fry Chicken – Cook chicken 3–4 minutes until just cooked; remove to a plate.
  • Aromatics – Add remaining 1 tbsp oil; sauté garlic and white parts of green onions 30 seconds.
  • Veggies – Add bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot; stir-fry 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
  • Combine – Return chicken; pour in sauce and red pepper flakes. Toss 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.
  • Finish – Stir in sesame oil and most of the green onion tops.
  • Serve – Spoon over hot rice and garnish with remaining green onions.

Notes

Slice chicken against the grain and keep the wok hot for best sear. Swap veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or snow peas—keep total volume similar so the sauce stays balanced.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 38gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 4200IUVitamin C: 65mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword Easy dinner, garlic chicken, quick weeknight meals, rice bowl, stir fry chicken
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