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.