1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Make sure the rice is cooked and chilled. Day-old rice works best because it’s less sticky.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink and have a slight golden color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Onions
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onions, and sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Cook the Vegetables
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
5. Scramble the Eggs
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the other side.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add the Rice and Chicken
- Add the cooked and chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with the spatula.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
7. Season the Fried Rice
- Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauces.
- Sprinkle with black pepper and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and well mixed.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Stir in the chopped green onions just before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or soy sauce if needed.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice: Chilled, day-old rice works best because it’s less sticky and fries better.
- High Heat: Cook the ingredients over high heat to get a good sear and prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add some chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Fried Rice: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist.
Conclusion
Garlic chicken fried rice is a delicious, quick, and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its combination of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and flavorful rice, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Key Takeaway
The key to perfect garlic chicken fried rice is using day-old rice, cooking over high heat, and layering flavors with sauces and fresh ingredients. By following this guide, you’ll create a dish that’s not only tasty but also versatile and easy to prepare.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Happy cooking!