chicken fried rice recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about a bowl of savory chicken fried rice. It is the ultimate weeknight meal that hits the spot every single time. Whether you have leftover rice in the fridge or you are craving that classic takeout flavor without leaving the house, this recipe is your new best friend.

Making your own chicken fried rice at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and the level of salt. It is a versatile, one-pan wonder that combines tender protein, healthy vegetables, and fluffy rice in a salty, umami-rich sauce. Once you master this simple technique, you will never want to order takeout again.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 425 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 890mg

Why Make This chicken fried rice recipe

This chicken fried rice recipe is the perfect solution for busy families. It takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, which is often faster than waiting for a delivery driver. It is also an excellent way to reduce food waste by using up leftover white rice and any stray vegetables you have in your crisper drawer.

Beyond being practical, it is absolutely delicious. The high-heat stir-frying technique gives the rice a slightly crispy texture, while the combination of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and garlic creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant. It is a complete, balanced meal in a single bowl.

How to Make chicken fried rice recipe

Success with fried rice comes down to preparation. Because the cooking process happens very quickly over high heat, you should have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the stove. Follow these simple steps for the perfect stir-fry experience.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into small bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots blend, thawed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

Heat a large wok or a wide non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with one teaspoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them quickly until they are just set but still soft. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Increase the heat to high and add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Add the diced chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside with the eggs.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Add the remaining oil to the pan if needed. Toss in the frozen peas, carrots, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add the chilled rice to the pan with the vegetables. Use a spatula to break up any large clumps of rice. Fry the rice for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice starts to brown slightly and becomes fragrant.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice. Sprinkle in the ginger. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated in the sauce. Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Toss well to combine and heat everything through.

Step 6: Final Garnish

Turn off the heat and stir in the sliced green onions. Give it one final toss and serve immediately while steaming hot.

How to Serve chicken fried rice recipe

Serve this chicken fried rice in deep bowls to keep it warm. For an authentic experience, you can garnish it with an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of spicy sriracha sauce if you like a bit of heat. It works perfectly as a standalone main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with appetizers like egg rolls, potstickers, or a simple cucumber salad.

How to Store chicken fried rice recipe

If you have leftovers, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl with a teaspoon of water and cover it to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can toss it back into a hot skillet with a tiny bit of oil for a few minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect chicken fried rice recipe

The most important tip is to use cold, leftover rice. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture and will turn mushy in the pan. If you must use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and put it in the freezer for 15 minutes to dry it out before cooking. Also, make sure your pan is very hot before adding the rice to get that signature “fried” texture.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. For a spicy kick, add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or kimchi. If you want more vegetables, try adding chopped bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp, diced ham, or even firm tofu for a different protein profile. If you are watching your carb intake, this same seasoning works great with cauliflower rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Yes, brown rice works very well! It provides a nuttier flavor and a Chewier texture. Just ensure it is also cold and dry before frying.

Q: What is the best oil to use for fried rice?

Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Avoid using butter or extra virgin olive oil as they can burn at the high temperatures required.

Q: How do I stop the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan is sufficiently hot before adding the oil and rice. Using a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a high-quality non-stick pan will also prevent sticking.

Q: Is oyster sauce necessary?

While you can omit it, oyster sauce adds a classic savory sweetness and “gloss” to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a bit more soy sauce and a pinch of sugar.

Q: Can I freeze chicken fried rice?

Yes! You can freeze it in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Reheat it directly from frozen in a skillet for the best results.

Conclusion

This chicken fried rice recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a world-class meal. It is fast, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a frequent star in your kitchen rotation. Grab your wok and enjoy the process!

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