If you crave the sweet, savory goodness of your favorite takeout but want something easy and comforting you can whip up at home, you’re going to fall head over heels for Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. This dish is a total flavor celebration: juicy chicken glazed in a sticky garlic sauce, crisp-tender veggies, fluffy jasmine rice, and all the umami you can dare to dream of—ready in under 40 minutes and perfect for everything from busy weeknights to casual gatherings. Get ready to fall in love with your new staple skillet dinner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create the irresistible combination that is Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. Each ingredient has its own role, whether it’s for bold flavor, vibrant color, or the perfect texture—so don’t skip these essentials!
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender, and flavorful—thighs are perfect for soaking up the sticky garlic sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- Soy Sauce: Delivers deep savory notes and brings just the right amount of saltiness to your fried rice.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the savory and helps create that irresistible sticky glaze.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel richness to the sauce and deepens the color of the chicken.
- Rice Vinegar: Lifts the flavors with bright acidity—swap for apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Garlic: The heart of this dish—use fresh cloves for the most robust, aromatic flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: Has a neutral taste and high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying all the components.
- Jasmine Rice: Day-old, chilled rice gives you those perfectly separated grains and that signature fried rice texture.
- Eggs: Lightly scrambled, they add lovely richness and subtle fluffiness to every bite.
- Frozen Peas and Carrots: Bright pops of color and sweetness—straight from the freezer, no need to thaw.
- Green Onions: Sprinkle on top for fresh flavor and a hint of crunch to finish the dish.
- Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle at the end gives deep nutty aroma and authentic takeout vibes.
- Salt and Pepper: Use to taste at the end for the perfect balance of all the flavors.
How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Whip Up the Sticky Garlic Sauce
The sauce is what takes this fried rice to the next level. In a small bowl, simply combine the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Give it a good stir and set it aside—you’ll be amazed at how much fragrance this brings to every bite!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your biggest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces and let them cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This is where the flavor begins—don’t crowd the pan so you get that irresistible sear.
Step 3: Glaze with Sticky Garlic Goodness
Pour your prepared garlic sauce right over the sizzling chicken. Let it all bubble and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often. The sauce will thicken up and coat each piece in a shiny, sticky glaze. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell like a dream! Set the chicken aside on a plate.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan (no need to wash!), heat the remaining tablespoon of oil. Pour in the eggs and gently scramble until just set—think soft curds, not overcooked. The eggs soak up all that savory flavor left in the pan.
Step 5: Fry the Rice and Veggies
Add your chilled jasmine rice to the pan, breaking up any big clumps with a spatula. Toss in the frozen peas and carrots, then stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes. The rice gets a little crispy and the veggies bring a fun splash of color and sweetness.
Step 6: Combine and Season
Return your sticky garlic chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the rice and veggies. Drizzle in the sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last toss so everything is coated in that glorious sauce!
How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference. Scatter plenty of chopped green onions over each serving for freshness and bright flavor. If you love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes adds both beauty and a little kick. Even a wedge of lime on the side can bring a zesty twist!
Side Dishes
Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is satisfying all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with light, crunchy sides. Try a refreshing cucumber salad, steamed Asian greens like bok choy, or even crispy spring rolls if you want a restaurant-style spread at home. These sides help balance the sweet and savory richness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation! Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice in big shallow bowls, or try scooping it into lettuce cups for a fun, interactive meal. If you’re entertaining, pile it onto a big platter and let everyone dig in family-style. For smaller gatherings, individual rice bowls always feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice might become your new favorite lunch. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors get even cozier together overnight!
Freezing
For longer storage, portion your fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out excess air, label, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or reheat straight from frozen using your favorite method below.
Reheating
To revive that just-cooked taste, heat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth, stirring until hot. You can also microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through, for a quick and easy meal prep solution.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works just fine in this Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, though thighs tend to be a bit juicier and more forgiving. Cut breasts into small pieces and watch carefully so they don’t dry out.
What kind of rice works best?
Day-old, chilled jasmine rice is classic—it keeps the grains fluffy and separated. Leftover rice is perfect, but you can use any long grain rice. In a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray to cool quickly before using.
How do I make this dish spicy?
Simply add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce, or sprinkle on top before serving. The sweetness of the sticky garlic sauce pairs wonderfully with a little heat!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or even a medley of stir-fried mushrooms. The sticky garlic sauce works magic with just about anything.
Why does my rice clump together?
If your rice is sticking in big clumps, it’s likely too wet or freshly cooked. For the best Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice texture, use rice that’s had time to dry out overnight in the fridge. Break up any clumps with your hands before cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a versatile, flavor-packed dish that never fails to delight, it’s time to give Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice a place in your recipe rotation. It hits all the right notes—savory, sweet, just a bit saucy—and comes together faster than takeout delivery. Treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a cozy bowlful soon!
Print
Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice at home with this easy recipe. Tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky garlic sauce, mixed with fluffy jasmine rice, eggs, and colorful vegetables, this dish is a flavor-packed meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For Sticky Garlic Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine rice
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Sticky Garlic Chicken: Mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Cook chicken in a skillet with vegetable oil until browned. Add the garlic sauce and simmer until thick.
- Cook Fried Rice: In the same pan, scramble eggs, stir in rice, peas, and carrots. Add back the chicken, toss together, and season with sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Garnish with green onions.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for best texture.
- Substitute chicken thighs with breasts or tofu.
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy version.
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