Garlic Chicken Fried Rice

Here’s a flavorful Garlic Chicken Fried Rice recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner. It uses simple ingredients and can be done in about 30 minutes.

🍛 Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 2–3):

For the chicken:

• 1 cup chicken breast or thigh, diced

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for a tender texture)

For the rice:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice)

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

• 5–6 garlic cloves, minced (or more if you love garlic!)

• 2 eggs (optional, for extra protein)

• 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)

• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any mixed veggies)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional, for umami depth)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sesame oil, for drizzling (optional)

• Chili flakes or chili oil (optional, for heat)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):

   • Mix diced chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, pepper, and cornstarch. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

   • Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Scramble the Eggs (if using):

   • In the same pan, add a little oil if needed. Scramble the eggs until just set. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

4. Sauté Garlic:

   • Add the remaining oil and sauté minced garlic over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

5. Fry the Rice:

   • Add cold rice to the garlic and break up clumps. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add Veggies and Sauces:

   • Toss in peas and carrots. Stir-fry until they’re warmed through.

   • Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.

7. Combine Everything:

   • Return chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan. Add scallions and stir-fry everything together for another 1–2 minutes.

8. Finish:

   • Drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil and sprinkle chili flakes or add chili oil if desired.

📝 Tips:

• Cold rice is key to avoiding mushy fried rice.

• Use leftover roast chicken for a shortcut.

• Want it spicier? Add minced fresh chilies with the garlic.