Golden Brown Crispy Rice Recipe- Perfect Side Dish

Golden brown crispy rice made with leftover rice, peanuts & coconut—easy, crunchy side dish perfect for bowls, salads, or snacking!

If you’ve ever scraped the bottom of the pan to savor those irresistible, golden, crispy bits of rice, this Crispy Rice Recipe is your dream come true. Whether you’re using leftover rice from last night’s takeout or planning ahead with a fresh batch, this oven-baked dish is a game changer for home cooks looking for something quick, crunchy, and full of flavor.

Perfect as a snack, base for crispy rice bowls, or a unique side to a main dish like spicy tuna tartare or a runny fried egg, this recipe transforms plain rice into a golden, nutty, and texturally satisfying treat. With minimal ingredients and a simple technique, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your home kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about rice when it hits that sweet spot between chewy and crispy. This recipe nails that balance. Baked instead of fried, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional crispy rice squares, yet still delivers that satisfying crunch. And since it’s made on a sheet pan, there’s minimal cleanup—no need for a large frying pan or splattering neutral oil on your stovetop.

Better still, it’s the perfect way to repurpose leftover sushi rice, leftover jasmine rice, or even leftover crunchy rice pieces from the rice cooker. Whether you’re topping it with spicy mayo and green onion or turning it into a crispy rice salad with fresh veggies and chili oil, the versatility of this dish makes it a staple in any kitchen.

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A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious creation:

• 2 cups cooked & cooled rice – You can use short grain rice, long-grain rice, or even white rice. Just make sure it’s fully cooled so it crisps up nicely.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and helps the rice get that golden brown crisp.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari – For umami depth. You could also add a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes – Adds natural sweetness and texture contrast.
• 1/2 cup peanuts, crushed – Brings the crunch and a toasty richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – We recommend kosher salt for its even seasoning.

Optional garnishes: a sprinkle of sesame seeds, green onion, or a drizzle of chili oil to amp things up.

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How to Make the Recipe

Step-by-step for golden perfection:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix rice with the rest of the ingredients—sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, coconut flakes, and peanuts.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto the lined sheet pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down slightly.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. You’re aiming for those glorious golden brown crispy edges.

1. Let cool on a cooling rack or directly on the parchment paper before serving.

Want to elevate it? Serve in a small bowl with spicy tuna and spicy mayo for the ultimate crispy rice bowls combo.

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Pair Your Crispy Rice with These Proteins

How to Store the Recipe

Storing your crispy rice correctly ensures it stays crunchy and delicious for the next day (or even the day after that):

• Allow it to cool completely before storing.
• Use an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any moisture.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
• To re-crisp, heat in a nonstick pan over medium heat with just enough oil to lightly coat the bottom, or reheat on a baking sheet at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes.

Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the rice—it traps moisture and will make the rice soggy.

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Tips for Making the Recipe

Want to make sure your rice turns out golden brown and extra crispy every time? Here are some pro tips:

• Use dry rice: If your rice is too wet, it won’t crisp up properly. Spread your rice on a tray and let it dry out a bit before mixing.
• Cool completely: This is especially key if you’re using freshly cooked rice. Letting it cool or refrigerating it helps firm up the grains.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the rice in a thin layer on the sheet pan to get maximum surface area exposure to the heat.
• Watch for burning: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your rice after the 20-minute mark and stir halfway through to avoid overcooking.
• Upgrade with toppings: Turn your side dish into a meal by topping it with a fried egg, sliced avocado with avocado oil, or a drizzle of olive oil and spicy mayo.

Whether you’re whipping this up on a busy weeknight or prepping for your next dinner party, this Golden Brown Crispy Rice Recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and versatility. It’s proof that with a few pantry staples and a little creativity, you can turn humble plain rice into a tasty creation worthy of applause. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a star in your weekly rotation.

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FAQs