If you are craving a dish that is packed with flavor, texture, and protein all in one satisfying bowl, look no further than the High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice (Quick & Flavorful!) Recipe. This recipe brings together tender, crispy chicken pieces and fragrant garlic perfectly paired with fluffy jasmine rice and a colorful medley of vegetables. Whether you need a hearty weeknight dinner or a meal prep winner, this dish delivers that delightful crispy charm and mouthwatering taste every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to create a dish bursting with balanced flavors and textures. Each component plays a critical role — from the aromatic garlic that infuses the dish, to the protein-packed chicken, and colorful vegetables that add freshness and a pop of color.
- 1 cup jasmine rice: Provides a fragrant, fluffy base that crisps beautifully when fried.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Used for cooking the eggs and chicken to achieve perfect texture.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Add richness, protein, and a wonderful soft texture.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: The star protein source, cooked until crispy and juicy.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds deep umami and a subtle saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Contributes a sweet, savory depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Packs in extra complexity and authentic Asian flair.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the fried rice with that unmistakable garlicky aroma.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn): Adds vibrant color, crunch, and nutrition.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Deliver freshness and a pop of bright flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Provides a nutty, fragrant finish that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Used as a garnish for a burst of herbal brightness.
How to Make High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice (Quick & Flavorful!) Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prep the Rice
Start by cooking the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a large baking sheet to let it cool and dry slightly. This simple trick is key to achieving that coveted crispy texture in the final dish — it prevents sogginess by drying the rice grains just enough for perfect frying later.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until just set. Cooking them softly ensures they stay tender and fluffy when combined with the other ingredients. Remove the eggs and set them aside for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and crank the heat up to medium-high. Toss in your diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is crispy golden on the outside and cooked through inside—about 5 minutes. This crispy texture brings a wonderful contrast to the softness of the rice and eggs.
Step 4: Garlic Magic
Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for just about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it here — garlic cooks fast and burns easily. When done right, it will release a rich, savory fragrance that forms the backbone of this recipe’s flavor.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the mixed vegetables and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender. The mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Step 6: Combine Rice and Sauce
Now, add the cooled rice to your pan, stirring everything together. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. These three sauces create a tantalizing umami-packed glaze that evenly coats every grain, elevating your fried rice to full flavor perfection.
Step 7: Return the Eggs
Return those perfectly scrambled eggs to the pan. Break them up a bit and fold them gently into the rice mixture, allowing their creamy texture to meld with the other ingredients.
Step 8: Final Touches
Toss in the chopped green onions and drizzle the sesame oil over the rice. Stir everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sesame oil’s nutty aroma to infuse the dish just before taking it off the heat.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish your masterpiece by garnishing with fresh cilantro. Its bright herbal notes add a fresh contrast that makes this recipe truly shine.
How to Serve High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice (Quick & Flavorful!) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a natural choice to brighten up each bite, but you can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced red chili for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal. These small touches make the dish feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice pairs beautifully with light sides like a simple cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or steamed bok choy for freshness. Alternatively, a tangy dipping sauce or some crispy spring rolls can round out this meal nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the fried rice in a hollowed-out pineapple for an eye-catching presentation perfect for entertaining. Or mold the rice into neat little domes using a bowl or cup to create a restaurant-quality look right at home. These creative touches elevate the experience without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your family has enjoyed the meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice stays flavorful and reheats beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Portion the fried rice into airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to one month. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the rice in a non-stick pan over medium heat with a splash of water or a little oil to revive the crispy texture and prevent dryness. Stir frequently until heated through, or warm gently in the microwave, covering to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds extra fiber, although it may take a bit longer to cook and won’t crisp up quite as much as jasmine rice. For the best results, cook and dry the rice thoroughly before frying.
What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?
Feel free to swap the mixed peas, carrots, and corn for whatever you have on hand—bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli florets, or diced zucchini all make delicious alternatives.
Is fish sauce necessary?
While fish sauce adds a unique umami depth that complements this dish, you can leave it out if you prefer or substitute with additional soy sauce. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still taste great.
How do I get the chicken crispy without drying it out?
Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken and avoid overcrowding it so the pieces brown nicely rather than steam. Cooking over medium-high heat and turning only when the first side is golden helps lock in juices and develop the crispiness.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, and use vegetarian oyster sauce or additional soy sauce to keep things flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about this High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice (Quick & Flavorful!) Recipe. It brings together incredible flavors, crispy textures, and nourishing protein in a way that turns any mealtime into a celebration. So go ahead and try it—you might just find your new favorite go-to dish that’s quick to make and impossible to resist.
Print
High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice (Quick & Flavorful!) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying meal. Featuring tender diced chicken breast, scrambled eggs, and a medley of mixed vegetables, all tossed in savory soy, oyster, and fish sauces, this fried rice delivers a crispy texture and bold garlic flavor that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 cup of jasmine rice
Proteins
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Oils & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread it on a large baking sheet to cool and dry out slightly, which helps achieve a crispy texture when frying.
- Scramble the eggs: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and black pepper, and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Saute the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it to maintain its flavor.
- Cook the vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add the rice and sauces: Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring everything together. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, mixing well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the flavorful sauces.
- Add the eggs back: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, breaking them up a bit and folding them gently into the rice for even distribution.
- Finish with aromatics: Toss in the chopped green onions and sesame oil, stirring everything together for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the fried rice with fresh chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh, herbaceous note.
Notes
- For best crispy texture, ensure the rice is cooked ahead and cooled to remove excess moisture.
- Use day-old rice if possible to prevent mushiness.
- You can customize the mixed vegetables to your preference or availability.
- Adjust the amount of soy, oyster, and fish sauce to taste for saltiness and depth of flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or diced fresh chilies.
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to ensure food safety.
