Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying lunch.
This dish features tender, diced chicken and aromatic garlic stir-fried with chilled white rice and a medley of vegetables, all brought together with savory soy sauce and sesame oil.
With scrambled eggs adding extra protein and green onions for a fresh garnish, it’s a balanced and delicious dish that can be made in just 30 minutes.
It’s an easy, versatile recipe that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked white rice, chilled
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken and minced garlic, and cook until chicken is cooked through and garlic is fragrant.
Push the chicken to one side of the skillet and add beaten eggs to the other side.
Scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender.
Add chilled rice to the skillet and stir-fry everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice.
Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture, and continue to stir-fry until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Serve hot .
For variations, you can easily switch the chicken for shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for more nutrition and flavor.
If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha.
You can also use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
For tips, be sure to use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture.
Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried.
Cook the chicken first, and don’t overcook the vegetables so they maintain a slight crunch.
Use a hot skillet or wok to get that classic fried rice flavor.
Lastly, stir the rice frequently to avoid sticking but let it sit for a few seconds between stirs to get a nice crisp on the bottom.
To store Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, first let it cool completely.
Once cooled, transfer the rice to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
The fried rice will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or soy sauce if needed to prevent it from drying out.
Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.
When making Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, using cold, leftover rice is key to achieving the right texture, as fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky for stir-frying.
You can also adjust the amount of soy sauce and sesame oil based on your taste preferences.
If you want extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce, garlic, and a dash of ginger before cooking.
For a smoky, restaurant-style fried rice, cook it on high heat in a wok or large skillet, allowing the rice to crisp slightly.
Lastly, this dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Calories: Approximately 350