Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick dinner solution that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this delectable Garlic Chicken Stir Fry. This dish is not only vibrant and colorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate fresh produce into your meals. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty stir fry in no time!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to add Garlic Chicken Stir Fry to your weekly meal rotation. First and foremost, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less time spent on cleanup. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. The combination of garlic and ginger gives it an aromatic base that fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent. Plus, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day!

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large red or green bell pepper, seeded & chopped
• 4 ounces fresh snow peas
• 1 cup cashews
• 1 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Hot cooked rice (optional)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying all the ingredients evenly.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients while cooking.
• Serving dish: To plate your finished Garlic Chicken Stir Fry.

Stepwise Method: Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Marinate & Mix

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help create a nice glaze on the chicken once cooked. Set aside for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of canola or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Swirl the oil around to coat the pan evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ground ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the chopped bell pepper and snow peas, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cashews, green onions, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes. If you desire a thicker sauce, mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it to the skillet, stirring gently until it thickens.

Step 9: Serve

Remove from heat and serve your Garlic Chicken Stir Fry over hot cooked rice, if desired. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and colors of this dish!

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider these adaptations:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to replace regular soy sauce.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Nuts-free: Omit the cashews or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
• Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls and their fixes:

• Chicken is dry: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be cooked just until no longer pink inside.
• Sauce is too thin: If your sauce doesn’t thicken as desired, mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pan until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Burnt garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir often to prevent burning.
• Vegetables overcooked: Add the vegetables later in the cooking process to ensure they remain crisp and vibrant.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. If you want to freeze it, store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly upon thawing.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes work well. Just add them directly to the skillet, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with Garlic Chicken Stir Fry?

While it pairs wonderfully with rice, you can also serve it with quinoa, noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time for even more flavor. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for some heat. You can also serve with sliced fresh chili peppers.

Keep Cooking

If you loved this Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, here are some more recipes you might enjoy:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Check out her delicious dessert recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Explore their extensive collection of easy weeknight meals.
• Minimalist Baker – Discover simple, plant-based recipes that are sure to impress.

That’s a Wrap

This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this stir fry allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delightful dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to eat!