Description
This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines tender, crispy chicken with fragrant garlic, colorful mixed vegetables, and perfectly stir-fried rice. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that packs a protein punch and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, divided
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Rice and Vegetables
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
Eggs and Seasoning
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add diced onion and mixed vegetables, stirring frequently. Stir-fry the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
- Scramble Eggs: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked. Once cooked, mix the scrambled eggs together with the vegetables.
- Stir-Fry the Rice: Add the cold rice to the skillet with the vegetables and eggs. Break up any clumps of rice using a spatula. Stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes to heat through and allow the rice to develop a light crisp texture.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to blend all the flavors perfectly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the fried rice hot. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Day-old cooked rice is ideal for fried rice as it prevents clumping and provides better texture.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Feel free to substitute mixed vegetables with your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
- Chicken can be swapped with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of oyster sauce or fish sauce during the combine step.
