If you’re hunting for a dish loaded with vibrant veggies, savory chicken, and the kind of garlicky, umami-rich sauce that’ll have you reaching for seconds, look no further than Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry. This high-protein, dairy-free meal is a weeknight hero: quick to prepare, bursting with color, and layered with flavors that play off each other beautifully. Whether spooned over fluffy rice or twirled with noodles, you’ll find yourself coming back to this stir-fry whenever you crave something both hearty and fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient for Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry is a key player, coming together to build deep flavor, satisfying texture, and irresistible aroma. Simple pantry staples pair up with fresh produce to create something extraordinary in just 30 minutes.
- Chicken breasts: Lean protein that soaks up the marinade and stays juicy with the quick stir-fry technique.
- Soy sauce: Delivers a salty-sweet depth to both the marinade and the finishing sauce.
- Cornstarch: Gives the chicken a silky coating and helps thicken the sauce just right.
- Vegetable oil: Neutral oil with a high smoke point, perfect for stir-frying at high heat.
- Mushrooms (cremini or button): Earthy, meaty slices that absorb sauce and pair naturally with chicken and garlic.
- Red bell pepper: Brings vibrant color, crisp texture, and a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
- Broccoli florets: Adds crunch and a fresh, green contrast to the savory flavors.
- Garlic: The aromatic backbone, offering bold, savory notes that define the stir-fry.
- Fresh ginger: Lends a touch of warmth and zing, waking up the sauce with every bite.
- Chicken broth: Makes the sauce rich and savory without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Oyster sauce: Delivers deep umami and a glossy finish; it’s the secret to classic stir-fry flavor.
- Sesame oil: Just a splash adds irresistible nuttiness and a hint of toasty aroma.
- Black pepper: For subtle heat and depth.
- Green onions: Bright, fresh, and perfect for a pop of color and crunch as a garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): A sprinkle on top gives a hint of texture and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken strips with soy sauce and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Letting the chicken marinate for just a few minutes helps it soak up those savory flavors and ensures the pieces stay tender as they cook. The cornstarch is the secret for that silky texture you love in stir-fries.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat half the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for caramelized edges and chicken that’s cooked through. Once done, scoop the chicken out and set it aside to keep it juicy.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Swirl in the remaining oil, then toss in the sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until they become beautifully tender-crisp. You want the mushrooms golden and the veggies bright—texture is key in the best Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry!
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Now, the magic happens. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, letting them sizzle for about a minute until everything is wildly fragrant. This step builds the dish’s signature aroma and gives that unmistakable punch that sets this stir-fry apart.
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Return the chicken (and all those tasty juices) to the skillet with the veggies. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, that extra tablespoon of soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Pour this savory mixture over everything, stirring well so the sauce coats all the chicken and vegetables. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes—just until the sauce thickens ever so slightly and gets glossy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat, sprinkle your finished Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry with sliced green onions and a shake of sesame seeds if you like. The final flourish makes the dish as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat!
How to Serve Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry
Garnishes
Top your Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry with freshly sliced green onions for color and zing, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an elegant crunch. If you love a little heat, scatter thin slices of red chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes just before serving—these small touches make each bowl look and taste restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this stir-fry is that it plays well with almost any carb—think steamy bowls of jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. For noodle lovers, toss with soba or rice noodles. If you feel bold, serve it alongside quick-pickled veggies or a cool cucumber salad for extra freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry into lettuce wraps for a playful, light dinner that’s great for sharing. For a meal-prep win, pack the stir-fry into bento boxes with a side of rice and a wedge of lime. Or, plate everything family-style with bowls of extra sauce and toppings so everyone can build their perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry to an airtight container as soon as it cools to room temperature. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to four days, making it ideal for tasty lunches or no-fuss dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
Want to stash some for later? Spread the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or bag (removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn). Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry freezes well for up to two months. Just remember the veggies may soften a bit upon reheating, but the flavors stay delicious.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and revive the flavors. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave (covered, to trap in moisture) works too. Stir halfway through to keep everything evenly heated and avoid overcooking the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry. They’re a bit juicier and add extra flavor, though you may need to cook them a minute or two longer to ensure they’re fully done.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or prefer to skip it, try using hoisin sauce or a vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a similar sweet-salty depth. A tablespoon of soy sauce with a touch of brown sugar can work in a pinch, though you’ll miss a bit of that signature umami richness.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Switch the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry an easy fit for special diets.
How do I add more spice to the dish?
For a spicier version, toss in sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes while adding the garlic and ginger. A drizzle of chili oil at the end can also kick up the heat for those who love a fiery stir-fry.
Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?
Definitely. Slicing the mushrooms, pepper, and broccoli a few hours ahead and storing them in the fridge speeds up weeknight prep significantly. You can even marinate the chicken up to half a day ahead for a deeper flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about pulling together a homemade Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry—it’s comforting, quick, and feels like a treat every single time. Give this recipe a try and taste just how rewarding a colorful, flavor-packed dinner can be. Your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Mushroom Chicken Stir-Fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken strips are stir-fried with earthy mushrooms, vibrant bell peppers, and crunchy broccoli in a savory garlic and ginger sauce. Serve this delicious stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
For the Stir-Fry:
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds, optional (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss chicken strips with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and cornstarch until coated.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Add the remaining oil to the skillet, then sauté mushrooms, bell pepper, and broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add Flavor: Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Return chicken to the skillet.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Pour sauce into the skillet and stir to coat evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
- This recipe can be prepped ahead by slicing the vegetables and marinating the chicken a few hours in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
