High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
Looking for a quick, protein-packed meal that satisfies your taste buds? This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is just the ticket! With crispy, golden-brown chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory sauce, this dish is bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthier version of fried rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes the comfort of classic fried rice and elevates it with crispy, garlic-infused chicken, making it not only delicious but also a great source of protein. The combination of tender chicken, stir-fried veggies, and perfectly cooked rice is packed with flavors, and the savory soy sauce and sesame oil add a unique richness that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish (optional):
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Add garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, then diced onion and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked. Mix everything together.
- Stir-Fry the Rice: Add cold rice to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes to heat through and lightly crisp.
- Combine: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Day-old rice is best as it’s drier and less sticky, perfect for fried rice.
- Feel free to swap vegetables or add more protein like shrimp or tofu to customize the dish.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sriracha.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a plant-based dish.
- Different Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach to suit your taste.
- Spicier Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or some sriracha sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Yes! While day-old rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, fresh rice can still work. Just make sure to cool it down before using it in the recipe. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Make the chicken and fried rice ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat everything together in a skillet. - Can I add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add shrimp, beef, or even a side of tofu or edamame for a protein-packed meal. - What can I use if I don’t have sesame oil?
Substitute with a mild oil like vegetable or olive oil. The sesame oil adds a unique flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.
Conclusion
This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a healthier, protein-packed version of a classic dish. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is always a winner!
Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful twist on the classic fried rice. Packed with crispy chicken, vegetables, and savory sauces, it’s a protein-rich meal that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Healthy, delicious, and easy to make, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
