If you’re craving a dish that brings bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a delightful kick all in one sizzling plate, the Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This recipe perfectly balances tender chicken with the crunch of fresh bell peppers and the robust flavors of garlic, soy, and chili, all tied together with a fragrant bed of fluffy steamed rice. It’s a wonderful way to bring quick, tasty, and satisfying comfort to your dinner table any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this stir-fry is a breeze, yet each one plays an essential role in building the dish’s amazing flavors, textures, and appealing look. From the juicy chicken breasts to the vibrant bell peppers and the spicy seasoning, each ingredient combines to create something truly special.
- Chicken breast strips: Provides lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender when stir-fried.
- Green bell peppers: Add a fresh, slightly bitter crunch and vibrant color.
- Red bell peppers: Offer sweetness and a beautiful contrast to the green peppers.
- Onion slices: Bring natural sweetness and a subtle sharpness that deepens the flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Essential for that pungent, aromatic base that sparks flavor throughout.
- Soy sauce: Adds salty umami depth and a touch of savory richness.
- Chili flakes: Provide the spicy punch that wakes up the palate.
- Black pepper: Enhances the dish’s warmth and complexity without overpowering.
- Sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that rounds out the stir-fry.
- White rice: A perfect, fluffy canvas that carries and balances the intense flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
How to Make Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because good rice forms the perfect base for your stir-fry, soaking up all those delicious juices and ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Chicken
Heat sesame oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté briefly until its irresistible aroma fills your kitchen. Next, add the chicken breast strips, cooking them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This caramelized chicken forms the heart of the dish with rich flavor and a juicy texture.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the onion slices along with the green and red bell peppers to your wok. Stir-fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold onto their crispness. This balance of texture—crisp veggies alongside tender chicken—is one of the many reasons this recipe is so delightful.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Pour in the soy sauce, sprinkle in the chili flakes, and grind fresh black pepper over the mix. Stir everything together well and let the flavors meld by cooking for another minute. This final seasoning step creates a luscious, savory, and spicy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Spoon your steaming Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry generously over the fluffy steamed rice. If you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Now, get ready to dive into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple!
How to Serve Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe
Garnishes
While the stir-fry itself has bold flavors, adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or even toasted sesame seeds can elevate your presentation and add extra layers of flavor and texture. These touches brighten the dish and make it feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe is wonderfully balanced on its own, but if you want to turn it into a feast, consider some crunchy cucumber salad or a light miso soup on the side. These will complement the spicy and savory notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an irresistible dinner party wow-factor, serve this stir-fry in individual bowls lined with lettuce leaves to wrap bites, or dish it alongside sticky rice molded into fun shapes. Adding a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lime can also personalize each serving with an extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will remain fresh for up to 3 days. The chicken and veggies hold up well, and the rice stays fluffy if properly covered.
Freezing
If you want to keep this tasty meal longer, freezing is a great option. Separate the chicken stir-fry and the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll maintain their flavors for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or a little extra oil to keep everything moist and prevent sticking. Stir often to heat evenly, and you’ll be enjoying a meal just as delicious as when it was first made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making a delicious alternative if you prefer a slightly fattier cut.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level depends on how generous you are with the chili flakes. You can easily adjust the spice to your taste, adding less for a mild kick or more if you love fiery dishes.
Can I substitute white rice with another grain?
Yes, brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa can be great substitutes depending on your dietary preferences. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This stir-fry holds up well for reheating and makes a fantastic, flavorful lunch or dinner option to take to work or school.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to customize by adding snap peas, carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust cooking times so everything finishes perfectly cooked.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor, and the Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe is exactly that. It’s one of those irresistible meals you’ll want to return to again and again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Give it a try, share it with friends or family, and enjoy every delicious bite bursting with spice, aroma, and warmth.
Print
Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry with Steamed Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Spicy Garlic Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry served over fluffy steamed white rice. This quick and easy stir-fry combines tender chicken breast strips, crisp green and red bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, all tossed in a savory soy sauce with a kick of chili flakes and black pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
Side
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups water (for rice cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice and 2 cups of water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and chicken: Heat sesame oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken strips and sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir-fry vegetables: Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining a little crunch and vibrant color.
- Add seasonings: Pour in soy sauce, chili flakes, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly and cook for another minute allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy garlic pepper chicken stir-fry over the steamed rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious and aromatic meal.
Notes
- Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
- For gluten-free, ensure soy sauce is tamari-based or gluten-free certified.
- You may substitute chicken breast with thighs for a juicier texture.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
