If you’re looking for a dinner that dazzles with flavor and delivers pure comfort, look no further than Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. This dish brings together tender chicken in a glossy, garlicky glaze, fluffy jasmine rice, and pops of colorful veggies for a meal that’s both easy to make and totally crave-worthy. Every bite is savory, sticky, and full of rich umami. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or whipping up a satisfying weeknight dinner for yourself, this fried rice is sure to steal the show!

Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making this incredible Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. These simple ingredients work together to create amazing layers of flavor and satisfyingly chewy, sticky texture. Each one has a job to do—don’t skip a thing!

Chicken thighs: Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor—choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy prep and best results.
Soy sauce: Essential for that deep, rich saltiness and color in both the marinade and the sticky sauce.
Honey: Adds the perfect touch of natural sweetness that makes the sauce glossy and irresistible.
Brown sugar: For caramel undertones and that signature sticky-sweet finish.
Rice vinegar: Brings a tangy balance that wakes up all the flavors.
Garlic: The heart and soul of this dish—use plenty for bold, aromatic bite.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce beautifully and helps the chicken crisp up nicely.
Vegetable oil: Choose a neutral, high-heat oil for stir-frying without overpowering the other flavors.
Jasmine rice: Day-old and chilled is best for fluffy, separate grains that fry up perfectly.
Eggs: Give richness and classic fried rice texture—just scramble lightly.
Frozen peas and carrots: For color, sweetness, and a little veggie crunch.
Green onions: Add a fresh finishing note and a pop of color.
Sesame oil: Just a dash at the end gives a toasted, nutty aroma.
Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste—season each layer for best results!

How to Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing the chicken thighs with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a little pepper in a bowl. This marinade makes the chicken extra flavorful and helps it cook up moist on the inside with a beautiful sear on the outside. Let it marinate while you whip up the sauce and prep your other ingredients—it only needs a short soak!

Step 2: Prepare the Sticky Garlic Sauce

In a smaller bowl, combine the remaining soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and the last tablespoon of cornstarch. Whisk it together until smooth. This sauce is the magic—it’s thick, glossy, garlicky, and the secret to turning your everyday fried rice into Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice that everyone will remember. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in your biggest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked all the way through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it handy; you’ll add it back in soon.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs and Stir-Fry the Rice

Pour your second tablespoon of oil into the same pan—no need to clean it out (those flavorful chicken bits are gold!). Pour in the eggs and scramble lightly until just set. Add your chilled jasmine rice and stir-fry for a couple of minutes, breaking up any clumps. The rice will soak up some egg and pan flavors, giving it that signature takeout texture.

Step 5: Add Veggies and Bring It All Together

Once the rice is hot, toss in your peas and carrots, stirring to combine. Slide the cooked chicken back in. Now, pour that sticky garlic sauce all over and stir, stir, stir! Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats every morsel of chicken and rice. Drizzle with sesame oil, stir in green onions, and give it one last mix before serving your Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice hot and steamy!

How to Serve Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice

Garnishes

A final flourish takes your Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice from delicious to downright stunning! Scatter fresh green onions and an extra sprinkle of black pepper over the top. If you’re feeling spicy, add chili flakes or a few drops of sriracha for color and heat. Toasted sesame seeds are also a welcome touch for crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

Although this fried rice is truly a meal on its own, you can create a complete spread with a few tasty sides. Steamed edamame, crisp cucumber salad, or a simple miso soup all make great companions. If you want a bigger feast, try some crispy spring rolls or a refreshing Asian slaw for extra variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice in fun ways! Serve it in colorful bowls for a cozy, home-style vibe, or use lettuce leaves for a cool, party-ready twist—let everyone scoop their own. For a restaurant-style presentation, press the hot rice into a small bowl, invert onto a plate for a neat dome, and top with extra green onions and sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice keeps beautifully for future meals. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more as it sits—just be sure it cools to room temperature before sealing, to keep the rice from getting soggy.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your fried rice for later, portion it out into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, or reheat from frozen using your microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to help it steam.

Reheating

To reheat Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, you can use the microwave for quick single portions (add a tiny splash of water and cover to prevent drying), or warm larger amounts in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, and sprinkle a few fresh green onions or an extra drizzle of sesame oil if desired.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well here—just be sure not to overcook it so it stays juicy. If you prefer an even lighter taste, chicken breast is the perfect swap.

What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

If you don’t have jasmine rice, any long-grain rice will work in this Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice recipe. Just make sure it’s cooked and fully cooled before stir-frying to prevent clumping.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, it’s not gluten-free because of the soy sauce. To make it gluten-free, simply use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead, and double-check your other condiments.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or even baby corn. The beauty of fried rice is how customizable it is—load it up with your favorite add-ins.

How do I make it spicy?

If you love heat, toss in some chili flakes, diced fresh chilies, or a squirt of sriracha right when you add the sticky sauce. You can also serve it with chili oil on the side for everyone to customize their own bowl.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and fun to make, Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice checks all the boxes. It’s one of those easy meals you’ll want to put on repeat, perfect for busy nights or impressing friends with minimal fuss. Give it a try and see why this recipe is always a hit in my kitchen—I bet it’ll become a staple in yours too!

Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the savory goodness of Sticky Garlic Chicken Fried Rice. This Asian-inspired dish features tender chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and a sticky garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a family favorite for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
3 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
5 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

For the Fried Rice:

3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine rice
2 eggs (lightly beaten)
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
3 green onions (sliced)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper. Let marinate while you prepare the sauce.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Fried Rice: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until set. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. Add peas and carrots, and stir well.
Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over everything and stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Drizzle with sesame oil, add green onions, and serve hot.