GARLIC CHICKEN STIR FRY

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic garlic in a savory sauce. This quick and easy stir fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in no time. In this article, we will explore the recipe for Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, providing you with step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and answering some frequently asked questions to ensure your stir fry success.

Recipe: Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, reserving any leftover marinade. Stir fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, julienned carrot, sugar snap peas, and broccoli florets. Stir fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender, but still vibrant in color.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any remaining marinade. Stir fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to coat the chicken and vegetables with the flavors of the sauce.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Serve the Garlic Chicken Stir Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as chicken thighs tend to be more tender and may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the stir fry by adding your favorite vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, baby corn, or water chestnuts are great additions that can add texture and flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I make the stir fry less spicy?

A: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the minced garlic or adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste preferences.

Q: Can I substitute the oyster sauce?

A: If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer a different flavor, you can use hoisin sauce or soy sauce instead. Each sauce will lend its own unique taste to the dish.

Q: Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to enjoy the stir fry fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. This way, you can quickly stir fry everything when you’re ready to eat.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Certainly! You can double the recipe to serve more people or to have leftovers for later. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger skillet or wok.

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the richness of garlic, the tenderness of chicken, and the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables. With its quick preparation and delicious results, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a wholesome and satisfying meal. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and savor the aromatic flavors of this Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. Your taste buds will thank you!