Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Chicken fried rice recipe is your ticket to a deliciously quick meal that bursts with flavor! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish filled with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and perfectly cooked rice, all tossed together in a savory soy sauce and sesame oil blend. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, like peas, carrots, and green onions, making it a fun and versatile dish for any night of the week. Get ready to savor every bite of this comforting classic that’s sure to please the whole family!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice Day-old rice works best for texture.
- 1 cup chicken breast Can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce Low-sodium options are available.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil Use sparingly for a burst of flavor.
- 2 eggs eggs Scramble them before mixing in.
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables Like peas and carrots; no need to thaw.
- 2 cloves garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferred.
- 2 green onions green onions Chop them finely for even distribution.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of diced chicken, 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots), 2 eggs, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, and green onions for garnish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Push them to one side of the skillet.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and vibrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked rice and soy sauce. Mix everything together, ensuring the rice is heated through and coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Top with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chicken fried rice!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in just 30 minutes!
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins for a personal touch.
- Perfect for using up leftover rice and ingredients, reducing food waste.
- Deliciously satisfying, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion.
- Kid-friendly and a hit with the whole family—everyone will ask for seconds!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Asian |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free Option |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Hot |
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Cooked rice – Essential for the base of the dish; day-old rice works best for texture.
- Chicken breast – Provides protein and a hearty flavor; can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetable oil – Used for frying; choose a high smoke point oil for best results.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred for a punch.
- Green onions – Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor; chop them finely for even distribution.
- Carrots – Adds color and sweetness; diced or shredded works well.
- Frozen peas – Convenient and adds a pop of color and sweetness; no need to thaw before using.
- Soy sauce – Provides umami flavor; low-sodium options are available for a healthier choice.
- Sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma; use sparingly for a burst of flavor.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; scramble them before mixing in.
How to Make the Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious chicken fried rice with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of diced chicken, 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots), 2 eggs, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, and green onions for garnish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Push them to one side of the skillet.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and vibrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked rice and soy sauce. Mix everything together, ensuring the rice is heated through and coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chicken fried rice!
Pro Tips for Making the Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Use day-old rice for the best texture; it’s less sticky and fries up nicely.
- Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to keep the process smooth and quick.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect fry.
- Add a splash of soy sauce gradually for flavor, adjusting to your taste preference.
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for a delightful aroma and extra richness.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Here are some fun and delicious ways to enjoy your chicken fried rice:
- Top with a fried egg for extra richness.
- Serve alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful crunch.
- Add a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor.
- Enjoy with a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for extra umami.
- Serve in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb option.
- Complement with a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken fried rice fresh:
- Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage:
- Cool the rice completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftovers:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth.
- Stir frequently until heated through for best texture.
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FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be a healthier option and adds a nice nutty flavor. Just remember that it may require a longer cooking time, so adjust your recipe accordingly.
What vegetables can I add to my chicken fried rice?
You can get creative with your veggies! Peas, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions work wonderfully. Just make sure to chop them finely for even cooking.
How do I prevent my fried rice from being mushy?
To avoid mushy rice, use day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist. Also, make sure to spread it out on a tray to cool before using it in your recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version! Simply omit the chicken and use tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. You can also add extra vegetables for a hearty meal.