Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. This dish is not only packed with protein but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for quick family dinners. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice, and who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- High in protein, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
- Deliciously crispy chicken that adds a delightful crunch.
- Versatile ingredients that you can easily customize based on what you have on hand.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a fantastic option for Chicken Breast Lunch Ideas.
Ingredients
To make this Healthy Fried Rice Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for chicken coating)
- 1 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice:
- Prep the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This step is key to creating that crispy texture when pan-fried.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant — be careful not to let it burn.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the garlic to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Stir gently until they just set into soft curds.
- Stir-fry everything: Add the cooked rice, peas, carrots, and green onions. Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir-fry for a few minutes, breaking up any rice clumps and letting the flavors mingle.
- Bring back the chicken: Finally, add the crispy chicken back into the pan. Give everything a good toss, ensuring the chicken stays crunchy but coated in the savory goodness.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with black pepper, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your High Protein Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time:
- Using day-old rice is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky.
- Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or broccoli, to boost the nutrition.
- If you want to spice things up, add a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes for some heat!
- For a twist, try adding some sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
How to Serve
This High Protein Stir Fry is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:
- A side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Some fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- A drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re looking for Easy On The Go Dinners, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
- This dish also freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
For more delicious recipes, check out my Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or my High Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Both are fantastic easy pasta recipes that your family will love!
Now that you have the recipe for High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, I hope you feel inspired to whip it up for your next weeknight dinner idea. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
High Protein Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Toss chicken with cornstarch to coat, then pan-fry until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic in oil until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add beaten eggs, scramble until just set, then add rice, peas, carrots, and green onions. Stir in soy and oyster sauces, cook a few minutes.
- Return crispy chicken to the pan, toss to combine, and season with black pepper. Serve hot.