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Chicken in Garlic Sauce (Chinese Style)

Chicken in Garlic Sauce is a popular Chinese dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful garlic sauce. This dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants and is loved for its bold flavors, savory aroma, and slightly spicy kick. The sauce is a perfect balance of garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings, making it a mouthwatering option for lunch or dinner.

This dish is quick and easy to prepare at home, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese takeout or looking to expand your home-cooked meal options, this recipe will bring authentic flavors to your table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • ½ cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

For Stir-Frying:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ½ cup bell peppers, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
  • ½ cup onions, sliced
  • ½ cup carrots, julienned
  • ½ cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This step helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a silky texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry for thickening the sauce later. Set both aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to release their aroma. Then, add the sliced onions, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Sauce & Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared garlic sauce and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and mix well. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency that coats the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes, chili oil, or Szechuan peppercorns for a fiery kick.
  • Mild Version: Reduce the garlic and red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Protein Substitutes: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, beef, tofu, or pork.
  • Vegetable Variations: Try adding baby corn, snap peas, broccoli, or bok choy for extra crunch and nutrition.
  • Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to control the salt content.

Cooking Notes

  • Marinating the Chicken: Cornstarch helps lock in moisture, making the chicken tender and juicy.
  • Cooking on High Heat: A wok or skillet should be very hot before adding ingredients for a true stir-fry effect.
  • Balancing the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness to your taste preference.
  • Cornstarch Slurry: Always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to hot liquids to avoid clumping.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
  • Enjoy with egg-fried rice or garlic noodles for a more indulgent meal.
  • Pair with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables for added freshness.
  • Add a bowl of hot and sour soup or egg drop soup for a complete Chinese meal experience.

Tips

  • For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes instead of 15 for deeper seasoning.
  • For Crispier Vegetables: Stir-fry them quickly on high heat to retain their texture.
  • For a Thicker Sauce: Add a little more cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.
  • For Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then cook everything fresh when ready to eat.

2. What is the best oil to use for stir-frying?

Use high-smoke-point oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for the best results.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and use a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

4. Can I freeze Chicken in Garlic Sauce?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

5. How do I make the dish less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the oyster sauce to control the salt levels.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken in Garlic Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish packed with bold flavors and fragrant spices. With its tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and rich garlic sauce, this dish is perfect for satisfying takeout cravings at home. Whether you enjoy it spicy, mild, or customized with your favorite ingredients, this recipe is versatile and sure to be a family favorite. Try it today and bring the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine to your kitchen!

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