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This flavorful Fiery Garlic Chicken Stir Fry has been my go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners. It's incredibly versatile and a real crowd-pleaser, delivering bold and spicy flavors with just a handful of ingredients.
When I first tried this, I wanted a dish that could pack heat but still satisfy everyone at the table, and this stir fry does exactly that.
- One pound chicken breast: Sliced thin adds lean protein and is quick to cook. Look for firm, fresh chicken for best results.
- Four cloves garlic minced: Create the base of this recipe's bold flavor. Fresh garlic works best here.
- Two cups mixed bell peppers: Bring a burst of color and crunch. Choose firm peppers in red, yellow, and green for variety.
- Two tablespoons soy sauce: Provide the perfect balance of saltiness. Opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- One tablespoon chili garlic sauce: Gives it fiery heat. Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- One tablespoon vegetable oil: Ensures everything cooks evenly. Use a neutral oil like canola if needed.
How to Make Fiery Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
- Heat the Pan:
- Warm a large pan over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.
- Cook the Garlic:
- Add minced garlic and stir it quickly for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it as this creates a bitter taste.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Toss in the thinly sliced chicken breast. Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. This step locks in juiciness.
- Add Veggies and Sauce:
- Mix in the bell peppers. Pour the soy sauce and chili garlic sauce over the top. Stir everything thoroughly, cooking just until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for best results, as microwaving may slightly soften the texture of the veggies.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have chili garlic sauce, a mix of red pepper flakes and a minced chili pepper works beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a healthy twist. You can garnish it with sesame seeds and fresh scallions for extra flair.
Cultural Context
Stir-fry originated in Chinese cooking and evolved into an adaptable method of creating quick, flavorful meals. This modern version fuses bold garlicky flavors with a touch of heat, which makes it both exciting and comforting.
Mastering this Fiery Garlic Chicken Stir Fry will guarantee you a quick meal without sacrificing flavor. Whether for a big family dinner or a solo evening treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken is best to use?
Thinly sliced chicken breast works best for quick and even cooking in a stir-fry.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.
- → What vegetables can I substitute for bell peppers?
Other great options include broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for variation.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
It's delicious over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- → Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook them just before serving for optimal freshness.