If you’re searching for an irresistibly aromatic, golden-brown, and deeply savory side dish, Garlic Fried Rice should jump straight to the top of your list. Known for its simple ingredients and maximum flavor payoff, this dish transforms humble day-old rice and lots of garlic into a magic combination that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying. Whether you serve it for breakfast with a fried egg or as the perfect canvas for your favorite stir-fry, Garlic Fried Rice always delivers punchy flavor, fluffy grains, and just the right touch of crispiness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Garlic Fried Rice shines because it relies on a handful of pantry staples that work together in perfect harmony. Each one brings something essential to the table—think bold flavors, ideal textures, and even a pop of color to finish.

Cooked Jasmine Rice (3 cups, preferably day-old and cold): Day-old rice is drier and separates easily, creating the best texture for frying and preventing mushy results.
Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): This is your foundation for stir-frying and helps crisp up the rice and infuse it with garlic’s aroma.
Garlic Cloves (8–10, minced or thinly sliced): The undeniable star—lots of garlic means lots of flavor and crunch!
Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a classic salty, umami depth that soaks into the grains.
Fish Sauce (1 teaspoon, optional): For extra savory punch and that hint of Southeast Asian flair; add more or less to taste.
Salt (½ teaspoon): A simple way to amplify all other flavors—don’t skip it!
Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers subtle heat and a warm, peppery finish.
Sliced Green Onions (for garnish, optional): Offers freshness and a lively pop of green for your final presentation.
Fried Egg (for topping, optional): Add a creamy, rich finishing touch that’s totally unbeatable for breakfast or a hearty meal.

How to Make Garlic Fried Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced or thinly sliced garlic, stirring frequently so every piece cooks evenly. After about 1–2 minutes, the garlic will turn a lovely golden brown and release its incredible aroma. To really make your Garlic Fried Rice shine, remove a spoonful of the crispy garlic and set it aside—you’ll use this crunchy batch as a finishing topper for extra flavor and texture.

Step 2: Fry the Rice

Turn the heat up to medium-high and add your cold, day-old jasmine rice right into the garlicky oil. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and toss the rice so that every grain gets coated with that fragrant goodness. Stir-fry the rice for 4–5 minutes, allowing some of it to become just a bit crispy at the edges. This step is key—the more you stir and toss, the fluffier and more individual each kernel will feel.

Step 3: Season It Up

Next, pour in the soy sauce and, if you like, the fish sauce, along with the salt and black pepper. Stir vigorously to distribute all the seasonings evenly and give the rice a gorgeous, almost glossy appearance. Continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors mingle harmoniously with each bite.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Take your pan off the heat and sprinkle the reserved crispy garlic and green onions on top for a beautiful finish. Serve your Garlic Fried Rice piping hot, and don’t hesitate to top it with a fresh fried egg for a truly satisfying meal any time of day.

How to Serve Garlic Fried Rice

Garnishes

There’s nothing like a shower of those perfectly golden garlic chips and a sprinkling of fresh green onions to give your Garlic Fried Rice a bit of crunch, brightness, and classic flavor. If you want to get even fancier, try a dusting of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for just the right kick.

Side Dishes

Garlic Fried Rice is a match made in heaven alongside so many main courses. Pair it with grilled meats, crispy fried fish, or classic stir-fried vegetables. Don’t forget that it also plays well with breakfast favorites—think garlicky rice with eggs, tocino, or longganisa for a Filipino-inspired morning feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your imagination guide you! Press the warm Garlic Fried Rice into small bowls or ramekins, then unmold onto plates for an elegant dome shape. For a fun twist, use rice molds to create stars or hearts, especially if you’re serving kids. Or simply pile it high in a rustic bowl, top with eggs, avocado, and your favorite protein for an Instagram-ready brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Garlic Fried Rice fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay tasty for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal even more satisfying.

Freezing

Need to store it longer? Garlic Fried Rice freezes well! Let the rice cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing, and it should last for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or go straight to reheating from frozen.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, reheat leftover Garlic Fried Rice in a hot skillet with a splash of oil or water—this revives its texture and brings back that signature aroma. The microwave works in a pinch, but the stovetop method really brings out the best flavor and keeps the rice fluffy, not soggy.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old?

For best texture, day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and creates those lovely separated grains. If you must use fresh rice, cool it thoroughly and spread it on a baking sheet to dry out before cooking Garlic Fried Rice.

Is it possible to make Garlic Fried Rice without fish sauce?

Absolutely! The fish sauce is optional and just adds a bigger umami punch. If you prefer to skip it, simply adjust the salt and perhaps add a dash more soy sauce to make up the flavor.

How can I add protein to make this a full meal?

You can turn Garlic Fried Rice into a complete main dish by tossing in cooked shrimp, diced chicken, leftover pork, or even tofu for a plant-based option. The rice happily takes on any flavors you throw its way!

What’s the best way to avoid burning the garlic?

Use medium heat, keep the garlic moving in the pan, and watch it like a hawk—the moment it turns golden and fragrant, it’s ready! Pull some out for garnish before it gets too brown so you can enjoy both flavor and crunch.

Can I add vegetables to Garlic Fried Rice?

Definitely! Stir-fry diced carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers after the garlic is golden but before adding the rice. This not only adds color and nutrition but turns Garlic Fried Rice into a versatile all-in-one dish.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Fried Rice is proof that simple ingredients, when treated right, can deliver absolutely show-stopping flavor. Give it a try for your next meal—you’ll love sharing this warm, crave-worthy dish with family and friends just as much as I do!

Garlic Fried Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy the aromatic and savory flavors of Garlic Fried Rice with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for using up leftover rice, this dish is quick to make and full of delicious garlic goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old and cold)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
8–10 garlic cloves (minced or thinly sliced)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Garnish:

sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
fried egg for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the oil and garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add garlic, cook until golden brown and fragrant.
Stir-fry the rice: Increase heat, add cold rice, stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
Season and finish: Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook briefly, then garnish with reserved garlic and green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture—it fries better and doesn’t get mushy.
You can add cooked vegetables or proteins like shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian