Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

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If there’s one dish that effortlessly blends speed, flavor, and comfort, it’s garlic chicken stir-fry with rice. This vibrant meal is all about juicy chicken tossed with aromatic garlic, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that coats every bite. Served over fluffy rice, it delivers a wholesome experience without fussing over complicated steps.

Whether you’re racing through a weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, this stir-fry never disappoints. It comes together in under 30 minutes and fills your kitchen with irresistible garlicky goodness. Add your favorite vegetables and tweak the heat to your liking, and you’ve got a customizable classic that keeps everyone happy.

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

This dish hits all the right notes: quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The garlic-infused chicken brings a deep umami taste that pairs beautifully with fresh veggies and simple pantry ingredients. Plus, it’s flexible—you can use any vegetables you have on hand or substitute brown rice or noodles if you prefer. It’s ideal for meal prep too, staying just as tasty the next day.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this stir-fry. Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, while breasts offer a leaner option. Make sure to cut the chicken into thin, even slices so it cooks quickly and stays tender. If you’re in a real pinch, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be added at the last minute for an even speedier version.

Ingredients for the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

To make a flavorful and well-balanced garlic chicken stir-fry, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building bold flavor and texture.

• Chicken breast or thighs: The heart of the dish. These provide tender, protein-packed bites that soak up the garlic sauce beautifully.
• Garlic: Essential for that unmistakable aroma and deep flavor that defines this stir-fry.
• Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami, bringing the dish together with its signature savory taste.
• Honey or brown sugar: A touch of sweetness helps balance the salty soy sauce and pungent garlic.
• Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken and thicken the sauce for that glossy finish.
• Vegetable oil: For stir-frying everything quickly without overpowering the flavor.
• Bell peppers: Their sweetness and crunch offer contrast to the savory chicken.
• Broccoli: Adds color, nutrients, and heartiness to the stir-fry.
• Green onions: For freshness and a mild onion kick that brightens each bite.
• Cooked rice: The perfect base to soak up all the saucy goodness.

How To Make the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken into bite-sized strips. Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go. Cooking stir-fry goes fast, so having everything prepped makes it smoother.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss the sliced chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated. This gives the chicken a light crust and helps the sauce cling to it later.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Stir-fry the garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli for a few minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey (or brown sugar). Pour the mixture into the pan with the vegetables and let it simmer for a minute.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together so the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Let it bubble for a minute to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of warm rice and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving and Storing Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

This garlic chicken stir-fry with rice is perfect for feeding four people generously, and even more if you’re serving it with additional sides. It makes a satisfying standalone meal, but also pairs beautifully with other light dishes.

To store leftovers, let the stir-fry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.

This dish also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.

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

Steamed Dumplings

Soft and juicy dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make a great appetizer alongside this stir-fry.

Egg Drop Soup

A warm, silky bowl of egg drop soup adds comfort and lightness without overshadowing the main dish.

Asian Slaw

Crunchy cabbage and carrot slaw with a sesame vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite.

Spring Rolls

Whether fresh or fried, spring rolls bring a crispy or chewy texture and pair well with the garlicky notes.

Spicy Edamame

Tossed in chili oil and sea salt, these make an addictive, protein-packed snack or side.

Pickled Vegetables

Quick pickled cucumbers or radishes offer tang and crunch that balance the richness of the stir-fry.

Sesame Noodles

A cold noodle side dish with sesame and soy flavors makes a delicious contrast in temperature and taste.

Stir-Fried Green Beans

A simple side with garlic and a touch of soy sauce ties everything together and adds another green to the table.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this garlic chicken stir-fry, there are plenty more chicken dinners you might enjoy next. Try one of these delicious recipes from Janet Dishes:

• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a protein-packed bowl with bright herb flavor.
• Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet when you’re in the mood for something creamy and tangy.
• Chicken Biscuit Casserole for a cozy, hearty comfort food dish.
• Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls if you’re craving cheesy and golden-baked.
• White Chicken Enchilada Casserole to spice up dinner night with creamy layers of flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you gave this stir-fry your own twist, I’d love to hear about it! Did you add snow peas? Go extra on the garlic? Maybe used quinoa instead of rice?

Tell me how yours turned out in the comments—I’m always inspired by your variations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Garlic chicken stir-fry with rice is the kind of recipe that becomes a staple. It’s quick to make, layered in flavor, and completely adaptable. You can go bold with extra garlic, mellow it out with more veggies, or make it spicy with chili flakes.

However you customize it, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps both your taste buds and schedule happy. Once you try it, it’s bound to land on regular rotation in your kitchen.

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