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.


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:
- Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a crispy, cheesy twist.
- Chicken Mushroom Alfredo – A Creamy Classic for pasta night indulgence.
- Marry Me Chicken for a rich and romantic dinner.
- Best Smothered Chicken Breast for a Southern comfort food favorite.
- Homemade Pollo Loco – Juicy Chicken Recipes for a grilled flavor explosion.
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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
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.