This Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice is the ultimate quick-fix dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Juicy strips of chicken are seared to perfection and tossed with vibrant vegetables in a rich, garlicky sauce that clings to every bite. Served with a side of fluffy white rice, this stir-fry is a harmony of savory, sweet, and spicy that comes together in just under 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal fast, this dish is also incredibly customizable. Use up whatever veggies you have on hand or switch up the protein—either way, it’s a kitchen lifesaver and a crowd favorite. Plus, it’s just as delicious as leftovers the next day.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for this stir-fry because it cooks quickly and stays tender. However, you can also use boneless thighs for a juicier bite. Just be sure to slice the chicken into even, thin strips for even cooking.

Ingredients for the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Chicken breast: Lean and quick to cook, it’s the protein star of this dish.

Bell peppers (red, yellow, green): These add sweetness, crunch, and color variety to every bite.

Carrots: Thinly sliced for that satisfying snap and slight sweetness.

Broccoli florets: For vibrant color and earthy crunch.

Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is essential—it’s the flavor base of the entire dish.

Green onions: Stirred in at the end for a pop of freshness.

Soy sauce: Adds the umami depth that ties everything together.

Oyster sauce: For richness and a slightly sweet, savory flavor.

Sesame oil: Just a drizzle elevates the dish with a nutty aroma.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a nice coating.

Cooked white rice: The perfect side to soak up all the saucy goodness.

How To Make the Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. Cut the bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions. Have all your sauces and cornstarch ready.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss the sliced chicken with cornstarch and a splash of soy sauce. This helps seal in the juices and gives the chicken that glossy coating once cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the chicken strips until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same pan, stir-fry the garlic first for about 30 seconds. Then add the carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir continuously for 3–4 minutes until they’re vibrant but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine & Sauce

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir everything together until coated and heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Toss in the chopped green onions at the end for a final burst of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over freshly cooked white rice and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Serve the stir-fry immediately while the vegetables are still crisp and the sauce is hot. It pairs perfectly with freshly steamed white rice, but jasmine or brown rice also make great companions. Want to take it up a notch? Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime just before serving.

For storing, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. This dish will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or toss it in a hot skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce. It’s just as flavorful the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

The key is to stir-fry them over high heat for a short time. Don’t overcrowd the pan and avoid overcooking to maintain their natural crunch.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen stir-fry mixes can be used in a pinch. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent sogginess.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

You can swap oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of brown sugar.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely. Add crushed red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chili to turn up the heat.

What protein alternatives work for this stir-fry?

Shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef are all great substitutes. Just adjust the cook time based on the protein.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces and ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice, you’ll want to try these delicious chicken recipes too:

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with chicken breast or thighs? Add extra garlic or sneak in more heat?

I love seeing how you personalize each dish. Feel free to ask questions or share your twist!

➡️ For more easy weeknight dinners and flavor-packed dishes, follow along on my Pinterest @lifewithninarecipes

Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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Description

This Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice is a fast, flavorful, and healthy dinner option perfect for weeknights. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory garlic sauce served over fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying one-pan meal you’ll want to make again and again.