If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that comes together quickly and satisfies every time, this Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is just what you need. Tender slices of chicken marry beautifully with crisp bell peppers, all coated in a savory, garlicky sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Served over fluffy steamed rice, it’s a colorful one-pan meal that bursts with freshness and just the right amount of sweetness and umami. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends, this dish never fails to deliver big on taste without demanding a ton of time or fancy ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is in its simple but thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each item adds a unique touch: the chicken brings juicy protein, the bell peppers add sweet crunch and vibrant color, and the sauces introduce layers of savory depth. Using just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you’re set for a winning meal.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds salty, umami richness essential to Asian-inspired dishes.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth that elevates the sauce.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Contributes a gentle smokiness and thick texture.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps the sauce thicken nicely and gives the chicken a silky coating.
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided: Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic warmth and bold flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers sweetness and crunch to contrast the chicken.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds sunshine-yellow color and vibrant sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings a familiar crisp bite and fresh flavor.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water: Creates a light, flavorful sauce base to bring it all together.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: The perfect fluffy bed to soak up every bit of sauce and flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the overall seasoning.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (optional): Garnishes that add a pop of color and nutty crunch.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your thinly sliced chicken breast in a bowl with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. This combination not only flavors the meat deeply but also helps achieve a glossy, slightly thickened coat once cooked. Let your chicken marinate for 10 to 15 minutes so all those delicious flavors seep in beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Spread the chicken pieces out in a single layer to get that perfect golden sear and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This quick searing locks in juices and develops a wonderful caramelized crust. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Peppers
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt — the garlic is where so much aroma comes from in this dish. Then add the vibrant red, yellow, and green bell pepper slices. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they start to become tender yet retain a satisfying crunch for texture contrast.
Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with your peppers. Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir everything together for 1 to 2 minutes. This helps meld the flavors and slightly thickens the sauce, coating every juicy piece and crisp pepper. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. Now your Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is ready to shine.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your presentation, sprinkle over some sliced green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds. They add a lovely fresh crunch and nutty flavor while making the dish look irresistible on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish is satisfying on its own but pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy can add refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a bowl of miso soup can round out the meal with warmth and umami.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stir-fry over the steamed rice in shallow bowls for easy mixing at the table. Or, for a fun twist, bowl the chicken and peppers over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version that’s just as flavorful. Even placing the stir-fry inside lettuce cups creates a playful handheld dinner option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it wonderful for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, place cooled stir-fry in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It can keep well for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze cooked rice separately and combine after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your stir-fry gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth when warming to restore moisture and revitalize that glossy sauce. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and peppers crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just slice them thinly to keep the stir-fry quick and even.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate and cook it the same way to enjoy all the vibrant flavors without meat.
What if I don’t have oyster or hoisin sauce?
You can substitute with additional soy sauce and a dash of honey or molasses for sweetness. However, oyster and hoisin sauces provide unique depth, so try to include them if possible.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the simmering dish for a minute or two until it achieves your desired consistency.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and prep the bell peppers. This will speed up cooking on busy days and help the flavors soak in even better.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe is one of those reliable, satisfying meals that never lose their charm. It’s bright, balanced, and downright delicious, perfect for sharing around the table on busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to its simple magic again and again.
Print
Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful garlic chicken stir-fry featuring colorful bell peppers and served over steamed white rice. This Asian-inspired main course combines tender chicken breast marinated in a savory blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces, stir-fried with fresh garlic and crisp peppers for a vibrant, healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Vegetables & Stir-Fry
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Sliced green onions (optional garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine thinly sliced chicken breast with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Toss well to coat evenly and let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and peppers: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, releasing its fragrance without burning. Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still crisp.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the peppers. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth or water and stir everything together for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the garlic chicken stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired for extra color and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a few drops of sesame oil just before serving.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier alternative or use tofu for a vegetarian variation.
