If you’re craving a meal that bursts with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying mix of textures, then this Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful fusion of tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and a savory, garlicky sauce all served over fluffy steamed rice. This dish not only comes together quickly but is guaranteed to become a favorite for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting homemade meal with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is all you need to create this stir-fry masterpiece. Each component plays a special role in building the dish’s balance of flavor and texture, from the tender chicken to the colorful peppers and zingy sauces.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 lb): Thin strips cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully for a juicy bite.
- Red, green, and yellow bell peppers (1 each): These bring vibrant color and a crisp, sweet crunch that contrast the tender chicken.
- Medium onion (1): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when stir-fried to tender-crisp perfection.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for high-heat cooking without overpowering the delicate garlic flavor.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Provides a rich, salty umami base for the sauce.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Offers a slightly sweet, savory boost that deepens the overall flavor.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a fruity, aromatic sweetness and thickness to the stir-fry sauce.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Balances the flavors with a light tangy brightness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Gives a nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Softens sharp edges and enhances the taste harmony.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): The star of the dish, delivering that essential sizzling garlic punch.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that complements the flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who crave a bit of extra kick and warmth.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon, optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce to a luscious glaze.
- Steamed white rice: The perfect neutral base that soaks up all the saucy goodness.
- Sesame seeds and fresh cilantro (optional): These garnishes bring texture and a fresh herbal lift to the finished dish.
How to Make Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast strips and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside. This step seals in the chicken’s juiciness and creates that signature sizzling texture we love.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers alongside the onion slices. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for 3 to 4 minutes, just enough to keep their crunch while bringing out their natural sweetness — the crunch gives the dish its refreshing texture contrast.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Time for the garlic to shine. Add the minced garlic directly to the vegetables in the hot pan, cooking it for about one minute or until it becomes fragrant. This step infuses the entire dish with that irresistible garlicky aroma that truly makes this a sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry with peppers & steamed rice recipe worth remembering.
Step 4: Make and Add the Sauce
Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Pour this vibrant sauce over your veggies and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This harmonious blend adds layers of flavor—from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker, glossy sauce, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a smooth slurry, then stir it into the pan. Let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens lovely and coats every ingredient perfectly, giving a rich finish to the dish.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return your cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the chicken is coated with the luscious sauce, and the vegetables are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite captures the balance of flavors and textures we crave in a sizzling garlic chicken stir-fry with peppers & steamed rice recipe.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve your irresistible stir-fry immediately over a bed of steaming white rice. For that extra touch of flair, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top. This final flourish not only adds to the plate’s appeal but deepens the taste experience with subtle nuttiness and herbaceous notes.
Step 8: Enjoy the Sizzle!
Dig in while it’s hot and sizzling — that’s when the flavors and textures come together in their best possible form. Enjoy every bite of your homemade stir-fry masterpiece, packed with garlic goodness and vibrant veggies.
How to Serve Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top isn’t just for looks — sesame seeds add a little toasty crunch, and cilantro introduces a fresh herbaceous vibe that cuts through the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Although this stir-fry is satisfying on its own, consider pairing it with a crisp Asian cucumber salad or a light miso soup to balance the savory richness. Simple steamed dumplings would also round out the meal beautifully for extra eating fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe in individual donburi bowls for an inviting, casual vibe. Or, elevate the presentation by molding the rice with a small bowl or ramekin onto the plate next to the stir-fry; it makes everything look restaurant-worthy and impresses guests without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your stir-fry cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to intensify overnight, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir-fry, but it’s best to keep the rice separate from the chicken and peppers to avoid sogginess. Store the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture and keep the chicken tender. Stir frequently until warmed through to retain that fresh-from-the-wok appeal.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a bit more richness to the dish. Just slice them thinly and adjust cooking time slightly until they are cooked through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild heat level by default, especially if you omit the crushed red pepper flakes. If you love spice, add the red pepper flakes or even a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra zing.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken with tofu or seitan and use vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom-based sauce alternatives. The vibrant peppers and sauce will still wow your taste buds.
What type of rice works best?
Steamed white jasmine or long-grain rice are excellent choices thanks to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which perfectly soak up the stir-fry sauce.
How do I prevent the vegetables from getting soggy?
Quick, high-heat stir-frying is key. Toss the veggies in the hot skillet just long enough to get tender-crisp. Overcooking will lead to sogginess, and you want that satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that never gets old. Its bright colors, bold garlic flavor, and quick preparation make it a go-to meal for any day you crave something both homey and exciting. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite weeknight dinners! Enjoy every delightful bite with friends and family.
Print
Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers and Steamed Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breast strips with crisp bell peppers and onions, enveloped in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it features a harmonious blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces with a hint of sesame oil, served over fluffy steamed rice and garnished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for an authentic Asian-inspired experience.
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
Sauces & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
Serving & Garnish
- Steamed white rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still retain their vibrant color and crunch.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Pour this sauce mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir well. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely and coats the vegetables.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce and mixed well with the vegetables.
- Serve: Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve while sizzling and hot to enjoy the full depth of flavors and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced chili peppers.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- If cornstarch is not available, arrowroot powder is a good substitute for thickening the sauce.
- Leftover stir-fry can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
