Garlic fried rice recipe lovers, you’re in the right place. This dish is your no-fuss solution for turning plain, day-old rice into something golden, crispy, and packed with flavor. With just a few basic ingredients and less than 20 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that feels both effortless and exciting.
Whether you’re managing a busy schedule or looking for a smart way to use leftovers, this recipe brings together practicality and crave-worthy taste in one pan. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable recipe that’s proving to be one of my most-loved staples of 2025.
If quick and flavorful is your cooking style, you’ll also love this Healthy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry that pairs perfectly with a side of fresh garlic rice.
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This garlic fried rice recipe is the easiest way to turn leftover rice into a crispy, comforting, flavor-packed dish in under 20 minutes.
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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
This garlic fried rice recipe is the kind of kitchen win that checks every box. It’s fast, uses ingredients you probably already have, and transforms leftovers into something seriously satisfying.
Easy garlic fried rice is more than just a side dish. It can stand on its own, especially when you add a few optional upgrades like eggs or scallions. The technique is simple but smart, with just enough finesse to deliver that coveted golden texture and rich garlic flavor.
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This garlic fried rice recipe is quick, uses day-old rice, and delivers restaurant-style flavor with everyday ingredients.
What sets this version apart is the garlic oil infusion. By gently cooking the garlic first, you unlock its full aroma without burning it. Combined with chilled, day-old rice, you get that signature crispiness that turns a basic bowl into a craveable meal.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a reliable go-to, this recipe brings both comfort and confidence to your kitchen.
What is Sinangag (Filipino Garlic Fried Rice)?
Sinangag, also known as Filipino garlic fried rice, is a simple yet beloved breakfast staple in many Filipino households. It is traditionally made with leftover white rice and lots of golden fried garlic. What makes it unique is its minimalism. Unlike other styles that add soy sauce or vegetables, sinangag keeps it plain to let the garlic shine.
The focus is on texture and aroma. Using day-old rice helps the grains stay separate and slightly chewy, while the garlic is fried until lightly crisped and aromatic. It is often served with eggs, dried fish, or tocino as part of a hearty morning meal.
While this garlic fried rice recipe draws inspiration from sinangag, it also gives you the flexibility to add modern twists. Whether you’re sticking with tradition or adding a splash of soy sauce or butter, this version lets you enjoy the essence of Filipino garlic fried rice with your own spin.
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Sinangag is a traditional Filipino garlic fried rice made with leftover rice and lots of golden garlic, often served as a breakfast dish.
Ingredients for Garlic Fried Rice
The magic of this garlic fried rice recipe lies in its simplicity. You do not need anything fancy, just smart use of pantry staples and a few thoughtful techniques.
- Cooked and Chilled Rice
Use 4 cups of day-old, refrigerated rice. Long-grain varieties like jasmine work best because they stay separate and crisp up beautifully. - Avocado Oil or Neutral Oil
Two tablespoons of oil give you the perfect base for infusing garlic flavor. Avocado oil is a heart-healthy choice with a high smoke point. Avocado oil is a heart-healthy choice with a high smoke point [source] - Garlic
Use 8 to 10 cloves, finely minced. This is the star of the dish, so do not hold back. - Sea Salt
Three-fourths teaspoon, or to taste, balances the flavors and highlights the garlic. - Butter (Optional)
Two tablespoons add richness and a slightly nutty depth to the rice. - Soy Sauce or Tamari (Optional)
One tablespoon provides a touch of umami without overpowering the garlic. - Toasted Sesame Oil (Optional)
Just one teaspoon stirred in at the end adds a warm, nutty aroma. - Green Onions (Optional)
Two scallions, thinly sliced, brighten the final dish with freshness and color. - Eggs (Optional)
Two large eggs can be scrambled into the rice for extra protein and a more complete meal.
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Use day-old rice, plenty of garlic, and your choice of optional add-ins like soy sauce or eggs to build a deeply flavorful garlic fried rice.
The Secret to the Perfect Garlic Fried Rice
The difference between good fried rice and truly unforgettable garlic fried rice comes down to three key details. These simple tips make all the difference in getting that crispy, restaurant-style result every single time.
Start with cold, day-old rice
Freshly cooked rice is too soft and steamy. When it hits a hot pan, it tends to clump and turn mushy. Chilled rice has dried out just enough to separate easily and hold its shape while frying.
Infuse the oil with garlic first
Instead of throwing garlic in after the rice, start by gently cooking it in oil over medium-low heat. This draws out the garlic’s sweetness and aroma without burning it. You are essentially creating a garlic-infused oil that coats every grain with flavor.
Use high heat and don’t stir too much
Once the rice goes in, crank up the heat. Spread it into a flat layer and let it sit for one to two minutes before stirring. This pause allows the bottom to get golden and crispy. Stir and repeat in batches to build layers of texture.
Optional boosters
Butter adds richness. Soy sauce brings umami depth. Toasted sesame oil delivers a nutty finish. Each of these is optional but highly recommended for extra dimension.
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For perfect garlic fried rice recipe, use cold rice, start with garlic-infused oil, and crisp the rice in stages without over-stirring.
How to Make Garlic Fried Rice (Step-by-Step)
This method ensures you get crispy, flavorful garlic fried rice every time, even if you’re working with just the basics. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the rice
Start by gently breaking up any large clumps of cold, day-old rice. Use your hands or a fork to separate the grains so they toast evenly later.
Step 2: Infuse the oil
In a large wok or non-stick skillet, heat two tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-low. Add the minced garlic right away. Let it sizzle gently until it turns fragrant and light golden. Take your time with this step to avoid bitterness and build deep flavor.
Step 3: Turn up the heat
Once the garlic is golden, raise the heat to high. Add the rice to the skillet and toss to coat each grain in the garlic oil.
Step 4: Let it crisp
Spread the rice into an even layer and let it sit untouched for one to two minutes. This creates a golden crust. Stir and repeat a couple of times until the rice is fully heated and crisped in places.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle in the sea salt and soy sauce if using. Toss well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Step 6: Add protein (optional)
Push the rice to one side of the pan and crack in the eggs. Scramble them gently on the empty side until just set. Then fold them into the rice.
Step 7: Finish and garnish
Turn off the heat and stir in the toasted sesame oil if using. Top with sliced green onions for a fresh bite.
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Crispy garlic fried rice recipe starts with cold rice, a slow garlic oil infusion, and high-heat stir-frying with minimal stirring.
Garlic Fried Rice Variations
This garlic fried rice recipe is incredibly flexible. Whether you’re craving a regional twist or need to adapt based on your pantry, here are a few popular ways to make it your own.
Japanese Garlic Fried Rice
Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end. A splash of soy sauce and a touch of toasted sesame oil bring out the classic Japanese-style depth. Top with a soft scrambled egg or sliced mushrooms for a comforting upgrade.
Chinese Garlic Fried Rice
Add a bit more soy sauce during cooking for a darker, savory finish. You can also stir in some scrambled eggs and finely chopped green onions to mirror Chinese takeout flavors. Optional additions like peas or shredded cabbage blend beautifully here.
Filipino Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag)
Keep it simple. Skip the soy sauce and butter and let the garlic be the star. Serve it alongside fried eggs and a side of sautéed greens or grilled fish for a traditional Filipino breakfast approach. And for another quick breakfast solution that’s perfect for busy mornings, these High Protein Breakfast Muffins are a family favorite.
Vegetarian Protein Add-Ins
Add cooked tofu, edamame, or tempeh to turn your rice into a protein-packed meal. Be sure to crisp the protein in the pan before mixing it in so it holds its texture.
Vegan Version
Stick with avocado oil and omit the butter and eggs. Use tamari instead of soy sauce if you need a gluten-free option. Add a handful of baby spinach or steamed broccoli near the end for extra color and nutrients.
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Customize your garlic fried rice recipe with Japanese butter-style, Chinese soy sauce variation, or keep it simple with Filipino sinangag.
Serving and Storing Garlic Fried Rice
This garlic fried rice recipe is as practical as it is flavorful. You can enjoy it fresh from the pan or save it for quick meals throughout the week.
Serving Ideas
Serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a soft-boiled egg, grilled tofu, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works beautifully as a base for stir-fried dishes or saucy mains like this sticky and delicious Sweet Chili Chicken. For extra brightness, add a squeeze of lime or a few chili flakes right before serving.
Storing Tips
Let the rice cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil. This helps bring back the original texture without drying it out.
If you love make-ahead meals, be sure to explore my Healthy Weeknight Dinners for more simple and nourishing ideas.
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Store garlic fried rice in an airtight container for up to four days and reheat in a skillet to revive its crispiness.
Key Takeaways
- Cold, day-old rice is essential for the best texture and prevents sogginess.
- Infusing oil with garlic over low heat builds deep, rich flavor without burning.
- Letting the rice sit in the pan before stirring creates crispy, golden edges.
- This recipe is endlessly flexible with options for Filipino, Japanese, or Chinese-style variations.
Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked and chilled rice preferably day-old jasmine or long-grain
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other neutral oil
- 8 to 10 cloves garlic finely minced
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt or to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter optional
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari optional
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil optional
- 2 green onions thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 large eggs optional
Instructions
- Break up any large clumps of cold rice with your hands or a fork to ensure even cooking.
- In a large wok or skillet, add oil and butter if using. Add the minced garlic and cook over medium-low heat until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Increase heat to high. Add the rice and toss to coat in the garlic oil.
- Spread the rice in an even layer. Let it sit undisturbed for one to two minutes to crisp. Stir and repeat until rice is hot and lightly browned in spots.
- Season with salt and soy sauce if using. Toss to mix well.
- If adding eggs, push rice to one side and scramble eggs on the empty side until just set. Mix into the rice.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in sesame oil and most of the green onions if using. Garnish with remaining green onions and serve hot.
Notes
Infuse garlic slowly over low heat to avoid bitterness and bring out its full aroma.
Conclusion
There is something deeply comforting about turning simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. This garlic fried rice recipe proves that you do not need much to make a meal that feels complete. With a bit of care and a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that is crispy, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a late-night fix, this recipe is your go-to for something warm and grounding. And once you make it, you will start seeing leftover rice in a whole new way. And if you love turning pantry staples into a warm and nourishing meal, this Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is another must-try.
Garlic Fried Rice: Your Questions Answered
1. What’s the secret to restaurant-style fried rice?
The secret is using day-old rice that has dried out slightly, cooking over high heat, and not stirring too often. Letting the rice crisp in the pan builds texture and flavor.
2. What are some common fried rice mistakes?
Using freshly cooked rice is the most common mistake. It results in sticky or soggy fried rice. Skipping the garlic oil step or overcrowding the pan can also reduce crispiness.
3. What goes well with garlic fried rice?
Eggs, sautéed greens, tofu, grilled chicken, or a simple stir-fry are excellent pairings. It also works well as a flavorful side to soups or stews.
4. Should I fry rice in oil or butter?
Both work. Oil has a higher smoke point and helps crisp the rice. Butter adds richness and works well in Japanese-style variations.
5. What is the secret ingredient in fried rice?
Garlic-infused oil is key. For extra depth, a small splash of toasted sesame oil or soy sauce can take it to the next level.
6. How can I fix bland fried rice?
Try adding more garlic, a dash of soy sauce, or finishing with sesame oil and scallions. Even a pinch of salt can brighten up the flavors.
