Garlic Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry With Rice Recipe

Garlic Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry With Rice Recipe: Zippy Family Favorite

Crafting a mouthwatering garlic chicken & veggie stir-fry takes creativity and a dash of culinary passion.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, flavorful solutions that satisfy hungry appetites.

My kitchen experiments have perfected this delightful one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and aromatic seasonings.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of savory garlic and fresh ingredients.

Robust flavors dance across your palate, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Simple techniques and accessible ingredients ensure you can whip up this delectable meal in under 30 minutes.

Prepare to embark on a delicious adventure that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry Is a Weeknight Win

  • Boost Nutrition Quickly: Pack your plate with lean protein from chicken and a rainbow of vegetables, delivering essential vitamins and minerals in one satisfying dish.
  • Master One-Pan Cooking: Minimize kitchen cleanup by using the same pan for chicken and vegetables, saving time and reducing dishwashing hassle.
  • Create Customizable Comfort: Easily swap vegetables or adjust seasoning to match personal taste preferences, making this recipe adaptable for different palates and dietary needs.
  • Zero Complicated Techniques: Achieve restaurant-quality results with simple sautéing and stirring skills, perfect for home cooks of all experience levels.

Ingredients List for Chicken Stir-Fry With Rice

For the Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender pieces of chicken that serve as the main protein source for this stir-fry.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds savory flavor and helps to season the chicken.
For the Vegetables:
  • Carrots, Broccoli, Red Onion: Fresh vegetables that provide crunch, nutrition, and colorful appeal to the dish.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor of the vegetables.
For the Cooking and Seasoning:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a healthy cooking medium and helps prevent sticking.
  • Garlic Powder, Salt: Fundamental seasonings that boost the chicken's flavor profile.
  • Rice: Serves as a warm, fluffy base that complements the stir-fried chicken and vegetables.

Step-by-Step for Garlic Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry

Step-by-Step for Garlic Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season generously with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until each piece develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Drizzle soy sauce over the chicken and stir for an additional minute to lock in those incredible flavors.

Step 2: Dance the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a splash more olive oil. Begin by tossing in carrots and sauteing them for approximately 3 minutes until they start to soften.

Next, introduce:
  • Broccoli florets
  • Sliced red onion

Stir the vegetables occasionally, allowing them to cook for another 3-4 minutes. Pour in a generous splash of soy sauce and sprinkle black pepper, mixing everything together until the vegetables are tender-crisp and glistening.

Step 3: Create a Delectable Plate

Spread warm, fluffy rice as a delightful foundation on your serving plate. Artfully arrange the golden chicken pieces and colorful vegetables on top of the rice.

The combination creates a vibrant, appetizing meal that promises both nutrition and incredible taste.

Step 4: Savor Your Culinary Masterpiece

Grab your fork and dive into this mouthwatering stir-fry, enjoying every single bite of the perfectly cooked chicken and crisp vegetables.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Stir-Fry With Rice

  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to ensure crispy, golden-brown edges and prevent steaming.
  • Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the stir-fry.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to achieve quick caramelization without burning the ingredients.
  • Let rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking to absorb remaining moisture and create fluffy, separated grains.

Different Takes on Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

  • Spicy Thai Fusion: Replace black pepper with red chili flakes and add Thai basil leaves for a hot, aromatic kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Substitute garlic powder with dried oregano and thyme, then top with crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Honey Teriyaki Style: Mix honey and teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce, creating a sweet and tangy flavor profile with glazed chicken and caramelized vegetables.
  • Coconut Curry Remix: Stir in coconut milk and mild curry powder during vegetable sauteing, transforming the dish into a creamy, fragrant stir-fry with an Indian touch.

What Goes Well With Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the garlic's richness and complements the stir-fry's bright vegetable flavors.
  • Boost with Ginger Beer: A spicy, refreshing ginger beer adds zesty notes that enhance the dish's savory chicken and vegetable profile.
  • Elevate with Asian-Inspired Cocktail: A lychee martini brings sweet and tangy undertones that balance the soy sauce and garlic complexity.
  • Match with Green Tea: A smooth, light green tea cleanses the palate between bites and provides a subtle, traditional Asian dining experience.

How to Store Chicken Stir-Fry With Rice

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate rice, chicken, and vegetables to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.

Pack meal components in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months. Rice freezes well for 1 month.

Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

Warm chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir frequently for even heating.

FAQs

  • Is garlic powder necessary for this recipe?

Garlic powder adds depth of flavor, but fresh minced garlic can be a great alternative that provides a more intense and authentic taste.

  • Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly. Just thaw and drain them before adding to the pan to prevent excess moisture and ensure proper sauteing.

  • What type of rice works best for this stir-fry?

White rice like jasmine or long-grain white rice are ideal, but brown rice or cauliflower rice can be healthy substitutes that complement the chicken and vegetables.

  • How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra protein by including tofu, edamame, or increasing the chicken quantity. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts like cashews on top for added protein and crunch.

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Garlic Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry With Rice Recipe

Garlic Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry With Rice Recipe


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4.9 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1x

Description

Sizzling garlic chicken & veggie stir-fry with rice promises a flavor explosion straight from Asian kitchens. Packed with aromatic garlic, crisp vegetables, and tender chicken, you’ll savor a quick, nutritious meal that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables:

  • 1/2 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped

Seasonings and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove garlic, minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cooked white or brown rice

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large skillet to medium-high temperature and warm olive oil until shimmering.
  2. Add chicken pieces seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
  3. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a golden-brown exterior with crisp edges.
  4. Drizzle soy sauce over chicken, stirring to coat and develop deeper flavor for an additional minute.
  5. Without cleaning the pan, introduce fresh olive oil and quickly sauté sliced carrots for approximately 3 minutes.
  6. Incorporate broccoli florets and diced red onion into the skillet, gently stirring to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
  7. Sprinkle additional black pepper and splash soy sauce, stirring to distribute seasonings and create a glossy vegetable mixture.
  8. Transfer warm, fluffy rice to serving plates, creating a welcoming base for the protein and vegetables.
  9. Artfully arrange seared chicken atop the rice, cascading colorful vegetables around and over the protein.
  10. Serve immediately while ingredients retain their optimal temperature and textural integrity.

Notes

  • Choose a high-sided wok or large skillet for even heat distribution and better stir-frying results.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming.
  • Cut vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking and appealing presentation.
  • Use high heat and keep ingredients moving to maintain crispness and prevent burning.
  • Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that keeps the same flavor profile.
  • Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat and depth of flavor if you enjoy spicy dishes.
  • Prep all ingredients before starting to cook, making the stir-fry process smooth and quick.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for variety.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 1500 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

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