Name: Chicken with Garlic Sauce (Chinese Style)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1/2 tsp red chili flakes; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 1/2 cup water chestnuts (optional); 2 tbsp cooking oil

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a classic Chinese takeout favorite, featuring tender chicken stir-fried in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet garlic sauce. This dish boasts a perfect balance of umami flavors with a hint of spice, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and comforting dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Takeout Flavor – Enjoy the taste of restaurant-quality Chinese food at home.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Alternative – Homemade versions allow control over ingredients and sodium levels.
Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
Pairs Well with Sides – Complements rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables beautifully.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Cornstarch
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
Garlic
Ginger
Red chili flakes
Brown sugar
Oyster sauce
Hoisin sauce
Chicken broth
Sesame oil
Green onions
Bell peppers
Carrots
Water chestnuts (optional)
Cooking oil

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken into thin strips.
In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch, allowing it to marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add cooking oil.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
Add minced garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes, stirring until fragrant.
Toss in bell peppers, carrots, and water chestnuts, cooking until slightly tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Pour in the prepared garlic sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions before serving.

Variations

Vegetarian Version – Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based dish.
Spicy Kick – Increase red chili flakes or add chili paste for extra heat.
Low-Sodium – Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.
Nutty Flavor – Add cashews or peanuts for a crunchy texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

What can I serve with Chicken with Garlic Sauce?

Steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, lo mein, or sautéed vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and ensure other sauces are gluten-free.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild heat level from red chili flakes, but you can adjust the spice to your liking.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating for the best texture and flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and add it to the dish while stirring.

What other vegetables can I use?

Broccoli, snow peas, baby corn, or bok choy work well in this recipe.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or pork are great alternatives to chicken.

What’s the best oil for stir-frying?

Use high-smoke-point oils like peanut oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil.

Do I have to use Shaoxing wine?

No, you can substitute it with dry sherry or skip it altogether if preferred.

How do I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare and store the sauce separately. Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead for quick assembly when ready to cook.

Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings authentic Chinese cuisine to your home. With its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken, it’s a go-to meal for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious homemade takeout experience!

Print