Looking for a quick and tasty stir fry for the family? This easy garlic chicken stir fry recipe is your go-to! It’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients, bringing the authentic taste of Asia to your kitchen. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it ideal for busy evenings. And the best part? It’s healthier than takeout and hits the spot without the hassle.
Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
1/2 cup snap peas
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the sesame oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the bell peppers, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Return the chicken to the pan, then add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and the cornstarch mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Key Takeaways
- This easy garlic chicken stir fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- It includes flavorful ingredients like garlic, chicken, and fresh vegetables.
- Enjoy a healthier alternative to takeout at home.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- This dish provides a satisfying 183 calories per serving.
Introduction to Your New Favorite Dinner
The homemade stir fry with garlic chicken is set to become a hit with your family. It brings together tender chicken, zesty garlic, and colorful vegetables. This mix creates a quick dinner recipe that pleases everyone.
It’s ready in under 35 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. Just 10 minutes to prep and 15 to cook. This makes it an ideal choice for those hectic nights.
This dish is also super versatile. You can add veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. These add more flavor and nutrition to your meal. The garlic chicken stir fry is a perfect blend of easy and delicious, making every dinner memorable.
What is Garlic Chicken Stir Fry?
Garlic chicken stir fry is a tasty and quick dish. It combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a savory garlic sauce. This garlic chicken stir fry overview will show you why it’s a favorite for its flavor and convenience. It’s a great mix of protein and vegetables, perfect for a healthy meal that tastes great.
The main ingredients make this dish special. It uses boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into small pieces for a great bite. Colorful veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add nutrients and make it look good. A sauce made of honey, soy sauce, and garlic brings all the flavors together, making it hard to resist.
Making it is easy, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. The garlic chicken stir fry overview shows it’s versatile. You can change the veggies to fit your taste or dietary needs. It’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day or to impress guests with a tasty dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs | 1 lb |
| Medium Zucchini | 1 |
| Chopped Bell Pepper | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped Onion | 1/2 |
| Minced Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Minced Ginger | 1 tsp |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Chili Garlic Sauce | 1 tsp |
Ingredients for Your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Making a tasty garlic chicken stir fry means picking the right ingredients. The main parts of this dish make it both tasty and fulfilling. Here, we’ll look at the must-have and extra ingredients that can take your cooking to the next level.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 6 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 pound of broccoli florets, cut small
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons of a neutral oil, like vegetable or avocado oil
Optional Add-ins
- Carrots, sliced into matchsticks
- Zucchini, thinly sliced
- Snow peas
- Fresh ginger, minced
- Crushed dry-roasted peanuts for garnish
- Fresh basil or cilantro for added freshness
These ingredients let you customize your garlic chicken stir fry. You can change the essential and optional items to suit your taste or dietary needs. This way, you can make a meal that’s just right for you.
Benefits of Making Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Making garlic chicken stir fry is a great choice for a weeknight dinner. It’s a nutritious meal that fits modern lifestyles. It balances health and convenience perfectly.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Garlic chicken stir fry takes about 30 minutes to make. This means you can have a tasty meal without giving up your evening. You only need 10 ingredients, not counting oil, making it perfect for busy people.
The cooking process is easy and quick. It requires less effort but still packs a lot of flavor. This lets you enjoy your meal more after a long day.
Healthy Meal Option
Garlic chicken stir fry is a healthy choice that fills you up and feeds your body well. Each serving has 317 calories, 26.9g of protein, and important nutrients from vegetables. Ingredients like garlic and ginger help with digestion.
You can change up the protein or veggies without losing the health benefits. This dish is great for everyone, from kids to adults. It supports balanced nutrition and is a hit with the whole family.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Cooking garlic chicken stir fry is easy and rewarding. Just follow the step-by-step instructions to make a dish that tastes great. You’ll cook the chicken, sauté veggies, and mix it all with a tasty garlic sauce. Each step is key to a perfect stir fry.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Begin by getting your ingredients ready. Cut 1 pound of chicken breasts into thin strips. Then, chop your favorite veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.
- In a bowl, mix up the stir fry sauce. Use 1/3 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons grated ginger, 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/3 cup water, and 1 teaspoon sriracha for spice.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a big pan over high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Put the veggies in the pan and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes more until they’re tender but still crisp.
- Then, pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies. Stir until everything is coated and the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Serve it up for a fresh, hot garlic chicken stir fry!
Tips for Perfecting Your Stir Fry
- Use high-heat oil, like vegetable or canola, for better searing.
- Cook components separately: cook the chicken first, then the vegetables. Combine them at the end to keep the right textures.
- Add more veggies to the stir fry. Consider mushrooms, asparagus, or sugar snap peas for color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying your garlic chicken stir fry can be even better with the right serving suggestions. These ideas will make your meal more enjoyable and satisfying.
Best Side Dishes
Looking for the best sides for your stir fry? Here are some great options:
- Steamed Rice: A classic choice, white or brown rice soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Fried Rice: Enhance your dish with a fusion of flavors by incorporating leftover rice sautéed with vegetables and eggs.
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed alternative, quinoa offers a nutty flavor that complements the stir fry.
- Asian Noodles: Serve your stir fry over egg or rice noodles to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
These suggestions not only fill you up but also make your dish even better.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right drink can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great pairings for your garlic chicken stir fry:
- Sauvignon Blanc: This light white wine has crisp and refreshing notes that balance the savory flavors of the stir fry.
- Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish, making it an excellent choice.
- Green Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, serve traditional green tea as it refreshes the palate and echoes Asian cuisine.
With these drinks, you can make a complete meal that matches your garlic chicken stir fry perfectly.
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Storing Leftovers from Your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
After enjoying a delicious meal of garlic chicken stir fry, you might wonder how to keep those leftovers fresh. Storing garlic chicken stir fry leftovers right keeps them fresh and makes meal prep easier for the next days. This dish can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days, giving you a quick and tasty meal later.
How to Store Properly
Storing your garlic chicken stir fry is easy. Just follow these steps for the best results:
- Let the stir fry cool down to room temperature before storing.
- Put the leftovers in an airtight container to keep flavors in.
- Write the date on the container to remember when it was stored.
- If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Tips
When reheating stir fry, aim to keep its original taste and texture. Here are some tips for reheating:
- Microwave: Put the stir fry in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, but leave a small vent for steam. Heat on high for 1 minute at a time until it’s hot.
- Sauté Pan: Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir often until it’s warm. This helps keep the veggies crisp.
Pay attention to avoid soggy veggies when reheating. These tips will help you enjoy tasty second servings of your garlic chicken stir fry.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use an airtight container. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. |
Variations on Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Exploring garlic chicken stir fry variations opens up new possibilities in your kitchen. By trying different vegetables and proteins, you can make the dish your own. This makes cooking more fun and your meals more personal.
Experimenting with Different Vegetables
Changing up the vegetables can change the taste and health benefits of your stir fry. Consider using:
- Snow peas
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Carrots
- Zucchini
Feel free to mix and match to create your own garlic chicken stir fry. Each vegetable brings a unique texture and flavor. This lets you enjoy a variety of dishes all week.
Protein Substitutions
Looking to change up the protein in your garlic chicken stir fry? You have many options. Try replacing chicken with:
- Beef
- Pork
- Shrimp
- Tofu for a vegetarian option
Using tofu is a great way to make a tasty vegetarian stir fry. Add vegetable broth for extra flavor. No matter the protein you pick, the dish stays versatile and fulfilling.
| Protein Option | Calories (per serving) | Protein Content | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 297 kcal | 26g | 15 mins |
| Beef | 320 kcal | 28g | 15 mins |
| Pork | 305 kcal | 27g | 15 mins |
| Shrimp | 250 kcal | 23g | 10 mins |
| Tofu | 220 kcal | 20g | 10 mins |
By adding these garlic chicken stir fry variations to your meals, you keep dinners exciting and fresh. Try different combinations and enjoy the versatility this dish offers.
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Understanding the nutrition facts for garlic chicken stir fry shows its value in a health-conscious meal plan. It’s not just tasty but also full of nutrients that boost your health.
Caloric Content
This stir fry is low in calories but high in protein, making it a great meal choice. Here’s a look at the calories:
| Serving Size | Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 198g | 210 | 31g | 15g | 3g | $11.99 |
| Lean (16oz Bowl) | 263 | 23g | 29g | 8g | $14.00 |
Nutritional Benefits
Garlic chicken stir fry is packed with health benefits, making it a smart diet choice. Key nutrients include:
- Protein: Important for muscle repair and growth.
- Low Fat: Only 3g of fat per serving, good for heart health.
- Rich in Vitamins: Vegetables add vitamins for better health.
- Minerals: Iron, calcium, and potassium support the body’s functions.
- Dietary Fiber: 4g of fiber helps with digestion.
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Why Choose Homemade Stir Fry?
Making your own garlic chicken stir fry at home has many benefits. It’s a great way to save money and make the dish your own. You can customize it to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Cost Efficiency
Homemade garlic chicken stir fry is very cost-effective. You can make a delicious meal in just 20 minutes, which is cheaper than eating out. By using fresh ingredients and making your own sauce, you skip the high prices of restaurants.
Safeway’s offer of $20 off your first order of $75 or more helps you save even more. This makes it easy to keep your kitchen stocked without breaking the bank.
Customization Options
With homemade garlic chicken stir fry, you can tailor it to your liking. Choose the chicken, vegetables, and sauces you prefer. If you need a gluten-free option, use different sauces or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Adding fresh ingredients like broccoli, bell peppers, and baby carrots makes the dish tastier and healthier. You can also make extra sauce to use later. It keeps well for up to a week, making it perfect for busy nights.
Asian-Inspired Flavors in Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
Take your garlic chicken stir fry to the next level with authentic Asian-inspired flavors. Adding traditional aromatics not only boosts the taste but also fills the air with rich scents.
Incorporating More Aromatics
For a deeper flavor, try adding fresh ginger, scallions, and a bit of chili paste. These ingredients make the taste more complex. Finely chop or grate ginger and mix it with minced garlic for a burst of aroma. Scallions add a mild onion taste that goes well with the chicken.
Using Authentic Sauces
Using real sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce can make your stir fry richer. A little coconut aminos or fish sauce adds umami flavors. Mix these ingredients carefully to find the perfect balance. Experiment with different mixes to find your favorite flavor combination.
Tips for Busy Weeknights
Even on the busiest days, making garlic chicken stir fry can be easy. Consider using meal prep ideas to make cooking faster. Chop your chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
This way, you can save time on the weekend and have everything ready for quick dinners.
Meal Prep Ideas
Using pre-chopped veggies or frozen mixed stir fry vegetables can save you a lot of time. These products add color and nutrition to your dish. When prepping for garlic chicken stir fry, portion out the chicken and sauce ahead of time.
This makes putting together your dinner quick and easy, letting you enjoy a tasty meal without stress.
Cooking in Batches
Cooking in batches is another smart move. Making more garlic chicken stir fry than you need can be a big help on busy nights. This recipe makes four servings, so you can easily make more to have leftovers.
Leftovers reheat well, and the flavors get even better. Using these tips helps you eat healthy and enjoy good meals, even when you’re short on time.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare garlic chicken stir fry?
You can make a tasty garlic chicken stir fry in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I customize the vegetables in my garlic chicken stir fry?
Absolutely! Pick your favorite colorful veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Tailor the dish to your taste.
Is garlic chicken stir fry a healthy meal option?
Yes! It’s full of protein, fresh veggies, and low in bad fats. It’s a nutritious and balanced meal choice.
What are some great side dishes to serve with garlic chicken stir fry?
Top choices include steamed rice, quinoa, or fried rice. They match the stir fry’s flavors perfectly.
How do I store leftovers of garlic chicken stir fry?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for 4-5 days.
Can I make garlic chicken stir fry vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth. You’ll get a tasty vegetarian garlic stir fry.
What are some ways to enhance the flavor of garlic chicken stir fry?
Add aromatics like ginger or chili paste. Use authentic sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce for more flavor.
How do I ensure my garlic chicken stir fry has the right texture?
Cook the chicken and veggies separately for the best texture. Use high-heat oil like sesame or canola to improve the stir fry’s quality.
Is garlic chicken stir fry better than takeout?
Definitely! It’s cheaper, lets you control ingredients, and tastes fresh and flavorful. It satisfies your cravings better than takeout.
Can I prepare ingredients for garlic chicken stir fry in advance?
Yes! Chop your veggies and marinate the chicken early. This makes cooking quick and easy, turning dinner into a breeze.