Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice

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A vibrant bowl of Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice delivers an explosion of bold flavors and enticing textures. Juicy strips of chicken breast are stir-fried to golden perfection, then tossed with crisp-tender vegetables and enveloped in a glossy, garlicky, slightly spicy sauce that clings lovingly to every bite. The broccoli and bell peppers add crunch and color, while the sauce, with hints of soy, chili, and sesame, brings warmth and depth to the dish.

Paired with steaming white rice, this stir fry is the kind of weeknight dinner that’s both energizing and comforting. It’s balanced, wholesome, and comes together quickly in a single pan—perfect for those evenings when you need maximum reward for minimal effort. This dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it ignites the appetite with every vibrant forkful.

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

• Quick & Efficient: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with just one wok or skillet.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious & Balanced: Protein, fiber, and whole carbs in one.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores and reheats beautifully.
• Restaurant-Style at Home: Cheaper, healthier, and tastier than takeout.
• Flavor-Packed: The sauce is bold, garlicky, savory, and just a bit sweet.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before you dive into the sizzling action, a bit of prep goes a long way for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need to make Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice a success:

• Wok or Large Non-Stick Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying due to its wide surface and even heat distribution. It allows for quick cooking at high temperatures, preserving the texture and nutrients of the ingredients. A deep skillet can work too—just make sure it’s large enough to toss everything together without overcrowding.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision is key when slicing chicken and vegetables evenly. A sharp knife ensures uniform cooking and quicker prep time.
• Cutting Board: Use separate boards for meat and veggies to avoid cross-contamination.
• Rice Cooker or Saucepan with Lid: For perfectly steamed rice to accompany the stir fry.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one for marinating the chicken and another for mixing the sauce. Opt for glass or stainless steel.
• Tongs or Spatula: Ideal for stir-frying—look for silicone or wooden options to protect non-stick surfaces.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring guarantees the sauce is well-balanced in flavor.

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Preparation Tips

• Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the chicken, slicing against the grain helps it remain tender during stir-frying.
• Prep All Ingredients First: Stir-frying is fast. Have your chicken, vegetables, and sauce ready to go before heating the wok.
• Velveting the Chicken: For restaurant-style tenderness, marinate chicken with a bit of cornstarch, soy sauce, and oil. It helps form a protective coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you add too much at once, your ingredients will steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat. Preheat your wok until it just starts to smoke before adding oil.
• Dry Veggies = Better Sear: Pat vegetables dry after washing them to avoid excess water in the pan, which can dilute flavor and texture.

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Ingredients for This Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering stir fry. The ingredients are divided into categories for clarity:

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast – thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to spice preference)
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic – finely minced
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional but recommended)
• ¼ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper – sliced into strips
• 1 small carrot – thinly sliced
• 2 green onions – chopped

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati work well)
• Sesame seeds and extra green onions (optional garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice

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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes while prepping the rest of your ingredients.

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Step 2: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce, 2 teaspoons brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, ¼ cup chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Stir until smooth and set aside.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (in batches if necessary) and sear until golden and just cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

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Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir fry for 3–4 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still retain some crispness. Add the white parts of the green onion and stir for another 30 seconds.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the wok, then pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together until evenly coated and the sauce begins to bubble and thicken—about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat once the sauce is glossy and clings well to the chicken and vegetables.

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Step 6: Serve

Spoon the hot stir fry over a bed of freshly steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onion tops if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

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Notes

• Chili Garlic Sauce Flexibility: You can tone down the heat by using less chili garlic sauce or swap it out entirely for sweet chili sauce if you prefer a milder version.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the veggie mix with what’s on hand—snap peas, mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini all work beautifully.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce and ensure your oyster/hoisin sauces are labeled gluten-free.
• Protein Swap: This recipe works just as well with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Rice Alternatives: Try brown rice, cauliflower rice, or rice noodles for a change in texture or nutritional value.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Marinade: This step adds flavor and tenderness to the chicken. Don’t rush it.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking all the chicken or vegetables at once leads to steaming, not stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Cold Pan Syndrome: Always heat your wok or skillet fully before adding oil and ingredients. A hot pan ensures that beautiful sear.
• Too Much Sauce: The sauce should coat, not drown, the stir fry. Stick to the measured amounts or scale proportionally.
• Soggy Vegetables: Overcooking the veggies can make them mushy and dull. Stir fry quickly to retain that vibrant color and crunch.
• Skipping the Cornstarch in Sauce: Cornstarch thickens the sauce to that glossy, clinging consistency. Don’t leave it out unless you’re fine with a thin, runnier sauce.
• Salting Without Tasting: Soy sauce and hoisin already contribute saltiness—taste before adding extra salt.
• Using Wet Veggies: Rinse your veggies early and dry them well. Wet veggies steam, which will interfere with the stir fry texture.

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

While this dish is satisfying on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal to a full culinary experience. Here are some great ideas to serve alongside it:

8 Recommendations

1. Spring Rolls
   Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls add a fun appetizer crunch and pair well with soy or sweet chili dipping sauces.
2. Asian Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing, tangy salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of sugar helps cool the palate and balance the spice.
3. Miso Soup
   Light and savory, miso soup serves as a gentle starter that complements the bold flavors of the stir fry.
4. Steamed Dumplings
   Chicken, pork, or veggie dumplings make a fantastic side. Steam or pan-fry them and serve with a splash of soy or ponzu sauce.
5. Kimchi
   Fermented spicy cabbage adds heat and tang, enhancing the complexity of the meal while aiding digestion.
6. Garlic Green Beans
   Stir-fried green beans with garlic and a touch of soy mirror the stir fry’s flavor while adding a new texture.
7. Egg Drop Soup
   Light and savory, this Chinese soup is an easy, protein-rich option that balances the meal without overwhelming it.
8. Mango Sticky Rice
   For dessert, the creamy, sweet notes of mango sticky rice cool off the palate and finish the meal with a tropical flourish.

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Storage Instructions

Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers. Here’s how to handle it safely and keep it tasting fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the rice and stir fry separate if possible to preserve texture.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags with as much air removed as possible.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Avoid reheating more than once to maintain food safety and quality.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 4 Servings)

These values are estimated and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes:

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugars: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 950mg

For a lighter version, reduce the rice portion or switch to brown rice. For a lower sodium option, opt for low-sodium sauces and skip added salt.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken, sauce, and veggies in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Stir fry everything together just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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2. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and check that your oyster and hoisin sauces are certified gluten-free.

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3. What kind of rice is best for this dish?

Jasmine or basmati rice are great options due to their fluffy texture and fragrant aroma. For a healthier spin, brown rice or even quinoa can be used.

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4. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before adding to the wok to avoid extra moisture that could make your stir fry soggy.

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5. What’s a good substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, a combination of extra soy sauce with a little brown sugar and a splash of Worcestershire can mimic the umami flavor.

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6. Is this dish spicy?

It has a medium heat level from the chili garlic sauce. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less, or substituting it with a milder sauce.

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7. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, but stir fry in batches to maintain that seared texture. Overcrowding the pan will result in steaming instead of proper stir-frying.

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8. Can I cook the rice in the same pan?

Technically you can if using a large skillet and par-cooked rice, but it’s best to cook rice separately for better texture and flavor control.

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Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice is a perfect example of how a few fresh ingredients and a good sauce can turn into a standout meal in under 30 minutes. With its balance of savory, spicy, and sweet, plus colorful vegetables and satisfying rice, it’s no wonder this dish is a household favorite. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will deliver delicious, reliable results every time.

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