Health meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory garlic sauce. This stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy dinner on the table in no time. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  1. Marinate Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and set aside for 10-15 minutes to marinate.

Cook the Stir Fry

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Stir Fry Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrot. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Combine and Serve

  1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Add Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
  3. Simmer: Let the stir fry simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
  4. Serve: Serve the Garlic Chicken Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Prep Everything First: Stir frying is fast-paced, so make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
  • Cornstarch Coating: The cornstarch helps to keep the chicken tender and gives it a nice texture when stir-fried.
  • Vegetable Options: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Variations

  • Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry: Add extra red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha for a spicier version.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry: Replace the oyster sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
  • Noodles: Toss the stir fry with cooked noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, for a hearty dish.
  • Lettuce Wraps: Serve the stir fry in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Stir Fry Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The actual stir fry process is best done just before serving for maximum freshness.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the skillet.

What Can I Use Instead of Oyster Sauce?

You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little sugar for a similar flavor.

How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes until thickened.

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful garlic sauce, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Gather your ingredients, stir fry, and enjoy this tasty meal in no time!

Happy Cooking!

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