This Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and easy recipe that brings together tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and savory soy sauce in a single pan. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a satisfying dish in minutes, this fried rice is packed with flavor and texture. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, chopped (optional for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Rice:
Use day-old cooked rice for the best texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet, and let it cool for at least 20 minutes to reduce moisture. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. - Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. - Scramble the Eggs:
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Allow them to set slightly, then scramble them gently with a spatula. Mix with the vegetables. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken back to the pan, followed by the rice. Stir well to combine everything. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Mix thoroughly to coat the rice with sauce. Season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. - Finish with Garnishes:
Add chopped green onions to the pan, saving a bit for garnish. Stir everything for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, extra green onions, and lime wedges if desired. - Serve:
Serve the Garlic Chicken Fried Rice hot, with a wedge of lime on the side for an added citrusy kick. Enjoy this dish on its own or with a side of your favorite Asian-inspired dipping sauce.