Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cloves Garlic, chopped; 2 Tablespoons Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (use Tamari for a gluten-free version); 1 Tablespoon Honey; 2 teaspoons Rice Vinegar; 2 teaspoons Toasted Sesame Oil; 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 Tablespoon Cooking Oil (for chicken, such as avocado or grapeseed oil); 1 large clove Shallot, diced; 1 1/2 cups Frozen Peas and Carrots; 2 1/2 cups Cooked Rice (preferably day-old rice); 1 Tablespoon Cooking Oil (for vegetables); 2 teaspoons Lime Juice (more or less to taste); Hot Sauce (optional, such as Sriracha or Gochujang)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you have a craving for a comforting, savory meal that comes together in no time, this Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a wonderful fusion of sweet honey and aromatic garlic mingling with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. Whether you’re in a hurry or just want an easy yet flavorful dinner, this dish delivers a perfect balance of taste and texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows small pieces of food cooking in a dark, well-used pan. The food pieces are golden brown with a slightly shiny texture from cooking oil, and they are spread mainly in the center of the pan. A shiny metal spatula is positioned on the right side, touching some food pieces. The pan has a worn surface with dark and light marks, showing signs of frequent use. The food looks like it is frying and has a crispy outer layer. The whole scene has a warm tone from the cooking process. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—garlic and honey bring bold flavor; chicken offers hearty protein; while peas, carrots, and shallots add pops of color and freshness. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite truly satisfying.

Garlic (4 cloves, chopped): Fresh garlic is key for that irresistible fragrance and depth of flavor.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds savory umami without overpowering, tamari is great for gluten-free options.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Provides a touch of natural sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes.
Rice Vinegar (2 teaspoons): Brings a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
Toasted Sesame Oil (2 teaspoons): Adds a lovely nutty aroma that makes the recipe uniquely tasty.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (1 pound, chopped): The main protein, tender and quick to cook.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough mild heat and depth.
Cooking Oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Avocado or grapeseed oils are ideal for a clean flavor and high heat cooking.
Shallot (1 large clove, diced): Offers a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic perfectly.
Frozen Peas and Carrots (1 1/2 cups): Convenient and colorful vegetables that add crunch and nutrition.
Cooked Rice (2 1/2 cups): Day-old rice works best to prevent clumping and ensures a fluffy texture.
Lime Juice (2 teaspoons): A splash of acidity to brighten up the whole dish at the end.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Make the Sauce

Start by whisking together the garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. This sweet and tangy sauce is the heart of the Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, so getting the balance right here sets you up for success. Set it aside and let those flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season your chopped chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Heat up one tablespoon of your cooking oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sauté until it’s nearly cooked through. In the last minute, pour in half of the sauce (about two tablespoons) and stir to coat the chicken fully—this step infuses the meat with that signature honey garlic goodness.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. Return the wok to the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced shallot and frozen peas and carrots—no need to thaw them beforehand. Stir-fry until the shallot softens and the veggies are heated through, about three to four minutes, which keeps them crisp and fresh.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Rice

Pour the rest of the sauce into the vegetables, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Once the sauce starts to simmer, add in the cooked rice. If your rice has clumps, break them apart with your hands as you add it to the pan to ensure even cooking. Stir constantly until the rice absorbs all the sauce and everything is totally combined.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Lime

Stir the chicken back into the pan with the rice and veggies. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top to add a bright contrast to the sweet and savory flavors. Give everything a final stir, and your Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is ready to serve. For an extra kick, top with your favorite hot sauce like Sriracha or Gochujang.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Inside a deep round metal wok, there is fried rice mixed with orange carrot cubes, green peas, and small green onion slices. Chicken pieces that are golden brown and cooked are spread evenly among the rice. A silver metal spoon is resting on the right side of the wok, slightly buried in the food. The wok has a wooden handle and sits on a dark wood textured surface which should be imagined as a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and taste, sprinkle chopped green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top. These garnishes add a little crunch and a burst of color that make the dish look as amazing as it tastes. A lime wedge on the side invites everyone to add extra zing if they like.

Side Dishes

This Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe works beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, think about serving it with a crisp Asian cucumber salad or a simple bowl of miso soup. Both add freshness and lightness that contrast perfectly with the rich, flavorful rice.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual family dinners, serve the fried rice family-style right from the wok—it’s inviting and encourages everyone to dig in together. Hosting guests? Plate it neatly in individual bowls with a garnish of microgreens for an elegant touch that impresses without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a happy problem!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even better, but be sure to reheat properly to keep the chicken tender.

Freezing

This Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in a hot skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until the rice is heated evenly. Microwaving is convenient but may cause uneven warming or sogginess, so stirring halfway through is essential.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor plus extra fiber. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding to the stir-fry and expect a slightly chewier texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can swap out chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, and keep the same sauce ingredients. Just be sure to press the tofu first and sauté it until golden for the best texture.

What kind of honey works best?

Any natural honey you enjoy will work beautifully. If you prefer a more robust flavor, try wildflower or buckwheat honey for an interesting twist.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Making the sauce in advance lets the flavors meld even more. Store it in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before using.

What if I don’t have a wok?

No worries at all! A large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan will work perfectly for this Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. Just make sure to cook over medium-high heat to achieve that sought-after stir-fry flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is truly a weeknight champion that brings comfort, flavor, and ease into one bowl. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find it perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying without fuss. Give it a go soon—you’re going to love every bite.