Here’s a flavorful Garlic Chicken Fried Rice recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with savory garlic goodness. It’s a perfect meal on its own or as a side dish. This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice and make a delicious meal in just a few steps!
Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for best texture)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed veggies of your choice)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots (or any other vegetables you’re using) and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are heated through.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
- Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, about 1-2 minutes.
- Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the veggies.
4. Add the Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
- Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil (optional) over the rice. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauces.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mixing it into the rice. Stir in the white pepper.
5. Final Touches:
- Continue stirring for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce or pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and cilantro (optional).
- Serve hot as a main dish or a side.
Tips:
- Rice: For the best texture, use day-old rice because it’s drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool it down before using.
- Veggies: Feel free to mix in any veggies you have on hand, such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
- Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers while cooking the garlic.
This Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s simple to make, and the combination of garlic, chicken, and soy sauce makes it irresistible. Enjoy!