Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice

There’s nothing quite like a quick and vibrant stir-fry to bring excitement to your dinner table. This Sizzling Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Steamed Rice is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight dinner or a flavorful option to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time.

Stir-fries are beloved worldwide for their simplicity and versatility. This dish, inspired by the fresh and bold flavors of Asian cuisine, combines tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and a luscious garlic sauce that clings to every bite. Served over fluffy jasmine rice and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, complete with tips to make it your own and a breakdown of why this dish deserves a spot in your rotation!

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Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

For the Rice:

• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

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Why This Recipe Works

1. The Power of Stir-Fry Cooking

Stir-frying is one of the fastest ways to cook food without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The high heat locks in the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables while maintaining their vibrant colors and textures. It’s a method that keeps ingredients fresh and exciting.

2. Simple, Flavorful Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic, you can create a sauce that feels indulgent yet balanced. The fresh crunch of the peppers contrasts perfectly with the juicy chicken, creating a harmonious dish with every bite.

3. A Healthy, Balanced Meal

With lean protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains (thanks to jasmine rice), this stir-fry is a balanced, satisfying meal. You get everything you need in one bowl: protein to keep you full, veggies for essential nutrients, and rice for a comforting base.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the pan. The oil’s nutty aroma will set the stage for this dish’s incredible flavor.

Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to toss the pieces frequently so they cook evenly. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Tip: To ensure tender chicken, cut the breasts into uniform pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate and prevents overcooking.

2. Cook the Peppers

Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir-fry the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can make the dish taste bitter.

Next, add the thinly sliced green and red bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently. The goal is to keep the peppers tender-crisp, so they retain their natural sweetness and a bit of crunch.

The vibrant colors of the peppers not only make the dish more appealing but also add a range of vitamins and antioxidants.

3. Combine & Sauce It Up

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the peppers. Now it’s time to bring the dish together with the sauce. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.

To thicken the sauce, prepare a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring as you go. Let the dish cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and beautifully coat the chicken and vegetables.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the amount of cornstarch in the slurry. Conversely, for a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly.

4. Plate & Garnish

Spoon the stir-fry over a bed of freshly steamed jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making every bite more satisfying.

For the final flourish, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the dish. These simple garnishes add a pop of color and extra flavor, elevating the meal from simple to spectacular.

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Tips & Variations

Switch Up the Protein

• Tofu: For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for firm tofu. Cube the tofu, pat it dry, and stir-fry it until crispy before proceeding with the recipe.
• Shrimp: Add a touch of elegance by using shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks in just 2-3 minutes, making the dish even faster to prepare.

Add More Veggies

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra variety. Carrots, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully in this stir-fry. Aim to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Adjust the Spice

If you’re a fan of spicy food, increase the chili flakes or drizzle some sriracha or chili oil over the finished dish. For a milder version, skip the chili flakes entirely and let the garlic and soy sauce shine.

Make It Gluten-Free

Swap regular soy sauce and oyster sauce for gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary restrictions. Tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce.

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Nutritional Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s good for you, too!

• Protein-Packed: Chicken is a lean source of protein that helps support muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamin-Rich: Bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A, C, and antioxidants that promote skin health and boost immunity.
• Low-Calorie & Satisfying: With approximately 380 calories per serving, this dish is light yet filling, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! The stir-fry keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, and reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Jasmine Rice?

While jasmine rice complements the dish beautifully, you can experiment with alternatives like:

• Brown rice for added fiber.
• Quinoa for a protein boost.
• Rice noodles for a fun twist on the dish.

3. How Do I Prevent Overcooking the Chicken?

The key to perfectly cooked chicken is to cut it into even pieces and cook it over high heat for a short period. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of browning.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fast & Fuss-Free

In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal on the table with minimal cleanup. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need dinner in a hurry.

2. Versatile & Customizable

From swapping proteins to adding more veggies, this recipe is as flexible as it gets. It’s a great way to clean out your fridge and use up whatever ingredients you have on hand.

3. Family-Friendly

This stir-fry appeals to all ages, making it a go-to for family dinners. Adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s palate, and watch as even picky eaters clean their plates!

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