This Easy Garlic Fried Rice is the ultimate quick comfort food — buttery, garlicky, and loaded with irresistible flavor.
Made with just a few pantry staples, it’s the perfect side dish or base for your favorite proteins.
Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this simple fried rice will win everyone over!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Fried Rice
Incredibly Easy: Ready in about 10 minutes!
Big Garlic Flavor: Aromatic, savory, and irresistible.
Minimal Ingredients: Pantry and fridge staples you already have.
Versatile: Works as a side dish or main course.
Customizable: Add veggies, eggs, or protein to make it a full meal.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best for separate, non-mushy grains.
Garlic: Freshly minced for the best flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and enhances garlic’s aroma.
Oil: Helps prevent burning and crisp up the rice.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to let the garlic shine.
Green Onions (optional): For color and fresh flavor boost.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice gives the best texture.
Mince Garlic Evenly: Smaller pieces prevent burning.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Allow the rice to fry properly.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Stir-Fry Quickly: High heat and fast movement ensure crispy rice.
How to Make Easy Garlic Fried Rice
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Mince the garlic and gather all ingredients.
Break up any clumps in the cold rice.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat butter and oil together in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 30 seconds).
Step 3: Add Rice
Add the cold rice to the pan.
Stir well to coat each grain with the buttery garlic mixture.
Step 4: Season
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, pressing rice against the pan occasionally for crispy bits.
Step 5: Finish
Stir in sliced green onions if using. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
Fried eggs for a satisfying breakfast
Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops
Stir-fried vegetables for a vegetarian meal
Asian-style marinated tofu
Spicy sriracha or soy sauce drizzle
Variations / Substitutions
Add Veggies: Toss in peas, carrots, corn, or bell peppers.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or drizzle with chili oil.
Garlic Chips: Fry thin garlic slices first for a crunchy topping.
Protein Boost: Stir in diced ham, bacon, shrimp, or tofu.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and skip animal proteins.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftover garlic fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled rice in zip-top bags for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
It’s best to use cold, day-old rice for the perfect texture.
If using fresh rice, spread it out to cool and dry a bit first.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook garlic over medium heat and stir constantly.
Remove from heat if it starts browning too quickly.
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce.
What’s the best rice to use?
Long-grain white rice like jasmine or basmati works beautifully for fluffy, separated grains.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge and quickly reheat in a hot pan when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Easy Garlic Fried Rice is a humble yet flavorful dish that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable meals.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or satisfying a carb craving, this fried rice deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.
Once you master it, you’ll find endless ways to make it your own!
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
3 cups cooked, cold rice
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden.
Stir in cold rice, breaking up any clumps.
Season with salt and pepper, stir-fry until hot and slightly crispy.
Add green onions if desired, serve immediately.
