Sizzling garlic chicken stir fry

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into thin strips

2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 small onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Garlic Sauce:

¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For the Steamed Rice:

1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice

3 cups water

½ teaspoon salt

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and salt, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

4. In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This helps create a crispy texture when stir-fried.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken and Vegetables

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

2. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil, followed by the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the bell peppers and onion, stir-frying for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the garlic sauce. Stir well and let the sauce thicken for 1–2 minutes.

2. Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice.