Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old); 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

January 26, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that combines warmth, comfort, and vibrant flavors? Chicken fried rice is the answer—a delightful medley that brings together tender pieces of chicken, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks will draw everyone in, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

This dish isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also incredibly versatile. Perfect for using up leftover rice or vegetables from your fridge, chicken fried rice allows you to customize it according to your preferences. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite Asian-inspired main course. Get ready for a culinary experience that promises satisfaction in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice

Quick and Easy Meal: Chicken fried rice can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home—add more veggies or swap out proteins to fit your dietary preferences.
One-Pan Wonder: This dish requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

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

Cooked White Rice: Using day-old rice works best because it’s drier and prevents mushiness during cooking; about 4 cups should suffice.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 2 cups of diced chicken adds protein and flavor; make sure to cut them into small cubes for even cooking.
Mixed Vegetables: A combination of peas, carrots, and bell peppers brightens up the dish; frozen vegetables are convenient and save prep time.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; use about three cloves for a robust aroma.
Soy Sauce: This will add depth of flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish balanced in saltiness.

For the Sauce:

Sesame Oil: About two tablespoons adds richness and a hint of nuttiness; it’s essential for authentic fried rice flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting. Chop the chicken into small cubes and mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add one tablespoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through—about six to seven minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Vegetables

Add minced garlic to the pan along with mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for another three minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Incorporate the Rice

Add cooked white rice into the pan. Break up any clumps with a spatula while stirring everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Season with Soy Sauce

Drizzle low-sodium soy sauce over the mixture. Toss everything together so that each grain of rice is coated evenly—cook for another two minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer to plates while still hot. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired for extra freshness—a perfect finishing touch!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice dries out slightly in the refrigerator, which helps prevent clumping during frying.
High Heat Is Key: Cooking on high heat gives you that signature restaurant-style smoky flavor known as “wok hei.”
Add an Egg (Optional): For additional protein and richness, scramble an egg into your fried rice during Step Four before adding soy sauce.

Now you’re ready to create a delicious Chicken Fried Rice that’s sure to impress! Enjoy this flavorful dish any night of the week!

Mistakes to avoid

Not Using Day-Old Rice: One common mistake in making chicken fried rice is using freshly cooked rice. Fresh rice contains too much moisture, which can lead to a mushy texture when fried. For the best results, use day-old rice that has been properly chilled in the refrigerator. This allows the grains to firm up, making it easier to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
Overcrowding the Pan: When preparing chicken fried rice, overcrowding the pan can hinder the cooking process. If you add too many ingredients at once, they will steam rather than fry. This results in uneven cooking and can prevent your chicken from getting that beautiful golden color. Cook your ingredients in batches if necessary to ensure they fry evenly and develop great flavor.
Skipping the Seasoning: A bland chicken fried rice is never enjoyable. Make sure you properly season each layer of your dish. Start with marinating your chicken and then add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other spices during cooking. Tasting as you go is crucial; this ensures that every bite of your chicken fried rice is packed with flavor. Don’t forget to season the vegetables as well!
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly affects the final taste of your chicken fried rice. Always opt for fresh vegetables, high-quality soy sauce, and good cuts of chicken. Avoid frozen or pre-packaged ingredients whenever possible, as these often lack flavor and freshness. Investing in quality ingredients will elevate your dish significantly.
Neglecting Proper Cooking Order: The order in which you cook your ingredients matters when making chicken fried rice. Start by cooking the protein first, followed by aromatics like garlic and onions, then vegetables, and finally add the rice. This sequence allows each component to cook properly without burning and ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Fried Rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Sweet and Sour Chicken: This dish complements the savory flavors of chicken fried rice, offering a delightful balance of taste. The sweet and tangy sauce enhances the overall meal experience.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy delights serve as a perfect appetizer. Their crunchy texture and fresh flavors make them an ideal accompaniment to your chicken fried rice.
Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup adds a comforting touch to your meal. The light broth and eggs provide a nice contrast to the hearty fried rice.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Chicken Fried Rice?

To prepare Chicken Fried Rice, gather essential ingredients such as cooked rice, chicken breast, soy sauce, peas, carrots, onions, garlic, and eggs. Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and add texture. Using day-old rice is ideal as it prevents clumping during cooking. You can also include green onions for garnish and sesame oil for added richness in flavor. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your serving size or personal preferences.

Can I make Chicken Fried Rice without soy sauce?

Yes, you can make Chicken Fried Rice without soy sauce by using alternative seasonings. Consider using coconut aminos for a gluten-free option or a mix of salt and vinegar for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with other sauces like teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a unique twist. Just ensure that whatever substitute you choose balances well with the other ingredients.

How do I store leftover Chicken Fried Rice?

To store leftover Chicken Fried Rice, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly in a microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water while reheating helps maintain moisture and prevents it from drying out.

Is Chicken Fried Rice healthy?

Chicken Fried Rice can be a healthy meal option when prepared with fresh ingredients and balanced proportions. Incorporating plenty of vegetables increases its nutritional value while using lean chicken reduces unhealthy fats. For an even healthier dish, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. Adjusting oil usage also contributes to making this dish more health-conscious.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful meal that combines flavor and convenience. With simple ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and rice, this dish caters to various tastes while being quick to prepare. You can customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies, making it suitable for everyone at your table. Serving suggestions like sweet and sour chicken or vegetable spring rolls elevate this dish further. Remember to store any leftovers properly for future meals! Enjoy creating this tasty recipe that is sure to satisfy your cravings while being easy on your schedule!

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