Mediterranean Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
This dish takes the comfort of fried rice and adds a Mediterranean twist with bold garlic flavor, crispy chicken, and wholesome brown rice. The chilled rice helps achieve that satisfying crispiness, while soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sriracha bring it all together. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty but full of flavor.
Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min cooking)
Serves: 4
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
4 cups cooked brown rice (preferably chilled, to get crispy texture)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any vegetables you prefer)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tablespoons sriracha (optional, for spice)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and crispy on the outside (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Build the Base
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil.
Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add Veggies & Rice
Stir in peas and carrots (or your choice of vegetables) and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add the chilled rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula, and spread it out so it crisps nicely. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes before stirring.
Eggs & Seasoning
Push rice to one side of the pan and pour in beaten eggs. Scramble until just set, then mix into the rice.
Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and sriracha (if using).
Finish with Chicken & Garnish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed.
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Serving Idea: Pair with a light cucumber-tomato salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced Mediterranean-style meal.
Tips
Use cold rice: Day-old, chilled rice crisps up better and prevents mushiness.
High heat = crispiness: Cook on medium-high to high heat so the rice gets that slightly crunchy texture.
Cook chicken in batches if needed: Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures a golden, crispy sear.
Garlic watch: Add garlic carefully—too long on high heat can make it bitter.
Taste as you go: Soy sauce and sesame oil are strong, so start small and adjust to your liking.
Variations
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean feel.
Nutty Touch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.
Herb Upgrade: Stir in fresh parsley, basil, or dill before serving for extra freshness.
Spicy Kick: Swap sriracha with harissa or chili flakes for a Mediterranean-style heat.
Low-Carb Option: Use riced cauliflower or quinoa instead of brown rice.
Cheesy Twist: A sprinkle of feta just before serving adds a creamy, tangy Mediterranean touch.
Q&A
Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of chilled?
A: You can, but chilled rice gives the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be too soft and can turn mushy when stir-fried.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for protein.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cooked fried rice keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of soy sauce or a little olive oil to bring back the crispiness.
Q: Is brown rice necessary?
A: No, you can use white rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa. Brown rice just adds more fiber and a nutty flavor.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: A side salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of Greek yogurt with cucumber (tzatziki-style) pairs beautifully with this dish.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~390
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: ~620mg
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size and added garnishes.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Crispy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, satisfying one-pan meal that’s both hearty and healthy. The crispy brown rice, fragrant garlic, and tender chicken create a comforting base, while sesame oil and a hint of spice add depth. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for using up leftover rice. Balanced with protein, veggies, and flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation.