If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch in both flavor and ease of preparation, then my spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice is exactly what you need! This recipe is one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights because it comes together in just about 30 minutes, and the aroma of garlic and spices wafting through my kitchen is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was amazed at how something so quick could taste so incredible! The tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and that spicy kick from the red pepper flakes create a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown, your choice!)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
How to Prepare the Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice
Alright, let’s get cookin’! This spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice comes together so quickly, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
First things first, grab a large skillet or wok and turn the heat to medium. Pour in the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it heat up. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers a bit—this helps get that perfect sizzle when we add the next ingredients!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step is crucial because you want the garlic to become fragrant without burning. Trust me, burnt garlic can ruin the whole dish!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the sliced chicken! Stir it in and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s no longer pink in the center. You’re looking for that lovely golden color on the outside. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Next up, toss in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender but still crisp. This keeps the veggies vibrant and adds that perfect crunch to your stir fry!
Step 5: Mix in Soy Sauce
Here comes the magic! Pour in the 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and give everything a good mix. Make sure every piece of chicken and veggie is coated in that savory goodness. This step is all about layering flavors, and trust me, you’ll want every bite to be delicious!
Step 6: Serve Over Rice
Finally, serve your spicy garlic chicken stir fry over those beautiful piles of cooked rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch and a lovely presentation. You can even add a few extra red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold!
And there you have it—an easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Bold flavors that pack a punch, thanks to garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Healthy ingredients like lean chicken and fresh vegetables.
- Versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
- A one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze!
- Perfect for meal prep; enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
- Great for spice lovers or those looking to adjust the heat level to their liking.
- Suitable for various diets—low calorie and full of nutrition!
Tips for Success
To make sure your spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice turns out perfect every single time, here are a few handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Marinate for Flavor: For an extra punch of flavor, consider marinating the sliced chicken in soy sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking. It makes a world of difference in taste!
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not sure how spicy you want it, start with half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later if you like it hotter!
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop your veggies and slice the chicken beforehand. This way, everything is ready to go when you start cooking, and you’ll avoid any last-minute scramble!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, it’s better to cook in two smaller batches rather than cramming everything into one pan. This helps everything cook evenly and get that nice stir-fry sear.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables! Snow peas, carrots, or even snap peas work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that different veggies may have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly!
- Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced. Fresh garlic brings a vibrant taste that really elevates the dish!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a stir fry that’s bursting with flavor every time. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Variations on Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice, I’ve got you covered with some fun variations! Trust me, playing around with this dish can lead to exciting new flavor combinations that keep dinner interesting.
- Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp, beef strips, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own unique texture and flavor to the dish!
- Veggie Delight: Add in a rainbow of vegetables! Snap peas, carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can all make for a vibrant and nutritious stir fry. Just remember to adjust cooking times for each veggie!
- Spice It Up: Want to take the heat to the next level? Add some diced fresh chili peppers or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick that’ll leave your taste buds tingling!
- Coconut Curry Twist: For a different flavor profile, stir in a couple of tablespoons of coconut curry paste and a splash of coconut milk. This will create a creamy, spicy stir fry that’s absolutely delightful!
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix in some pineapple chunks or a drizzle of honey to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness. It’s a beautiful contrast that works wonderfully in stir fries!
- Herb Infusion: Finish your stir fry with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness. Just add them in right before serving to keep their flavor vibrant!
With these variations, you can have a new spin on your spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice every time you make it. Get creative and enjoy the process of experimenting in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of my spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice, and now you have leftovers—how exciting! Properly storing and reheating your stir fry will keep those bold flavors intact for days to come. Here’s how I do it:
First, let your stir fry cool down to room temperature. You don’t want to trap steam in the container, as that can make the rice all soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container. This will help maintain freshness and prevent any weird odors from sneaking in from the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing your stir fry! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to warm it up. This helps retain that stir-fry texture and flavor. Just add a splash of water or a little extra soy sauce to keep it moist. Stir it occasionally, and it should be ready in about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer, you can also pop it in the microwave—just cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, and heat it in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice just as much as the first time you made it!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice, it’s great to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s a typical breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients used:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes with a good balance of protein and veggies to keep you satisfied. Remember, you can always adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences without sacrificing taste!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this stir fry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before slicing and cooking. Frozen chicken can be a lifesaver on busy days!
What if I don’t have red pepper flakes?
No worries! You can use fresh chili peppers or even a dash of hot sauce instead. Adjust the amount to fit your spice preference!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time! Just store the cooked stir fry in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This spicy garlic chicken stir fry with rice keeps well in the fridge and is great for packing lunches. Just remember to store the rice separately if you want to keep everything fresh!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Of course! Simply swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a delicious vegetarian twist!
Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice in 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A flavorful and spicy garlic chicken stir fry served with rice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken breast, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add the bell pepper and broccoli, stir fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the soy sauce and mix well.
- Serve over cooked rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- You can add other vegetables as desired.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: spicy garlic chicken stir fry, chicken stir fry, garlic chicken, stir fry with rice
