Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, super satisfying, and easy to whip up any night of the week, you’ve got to try this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce blend that keeps you coming back for more. What makes this recipe truly special is how it takes simple ingredients you probably already have and transforms them into a delightful, restaurant-quality meal right at home. Get ready to make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds sing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe plays a key role, from the fragrant jasmine rice to the punchy soy sauce. These essentials come together effortlessly, creating a balance of texture, color, and flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Using day-old rice helps keep the grains separate and prevents sogginess.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender chicken adds hearty protein and soaks up the savory flavors.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Adds a soft, comforting texture and extra richness.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Brings sweetness, color, and a pleasant crunch.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Fresh and peppery, they brighten up the dish substantially.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an aromatic backbone to every bite.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty, umami booster that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds depth with a subtle sweetness and savory complexity.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A final drizzle gives that authentic nutty fragrance.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken and cook it until it’s golden brown and cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because achieving a nice sear locks in the juices, giving you chicken pieces that stay tender rather than drying out. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In that same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until fully cooked but still soft. Eggs cooked separately like this maintain a fluffy texture and won’t get lost among the other ingredients. Once ready, remove them from the skillet and keep them with the chicken.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Veggies
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir just for about 30 seconds until you can smell its irresistible aroma. Then, toss in the frozen peas and carrots, stir-frying for roughly 2 minutes until they’re unfrozen and heated through. This step infuses the dish with savory goodness and keeps the vegetables vibrant yet tender-crisp.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice
Now add the day-old cooked jasmine rice to your skillet. Break up any clumps with your spatula or wooden spoon to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, which allows the rice to get a little toasted and soak up all the flavors waiting to come together.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients and Add Sauces
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan, mixing everything well. Then stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Keep stir-frying for another 2 to 3 minutes to make sure every grain of rice and morsel of chicken gets coated with that luscious sauce blend.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finally, add the sliced green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good toss one last time so the green onions distribute evenly and the seasonings balance perfectly. Your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few garnishes can elevate your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe to the next level. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch or a drizzle of chili oil if you enjoy a little heat. A wedge of lime on the side brightens the flavors beautifully, adding a zesty finish that pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory profile of the rice.
Side Dishes
This fried rice is a fantastic standalone meal, but if you’re looking to widen the feast, consider crisp cucumber salad, steamed bok choy, or even some spring rolls. These sides introduce fresh and light elements that complement the hearty, saucy rice perfectly without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in individual pineapple bowls or lettuce cups. It makes the meal feel festive and visually inviting, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Another idea is to top it with crispy fried onions or a fried egg for an extra special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after enjoying your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. The rice and chicken keep well, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
You can also freeze the dish if you want to prepare in advance. Freeze in portion-sized freezer-safe containers and make sure to cool completely before sealing. Frozen chicken fried rice lasts up to 2 months and thaws quickly in the fridge when you’re ready to eat.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the rice and prevent it from drying out. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even heating and bring back that fresh-from-the-wok goodness.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use regular white rice if jasmine rice isn’t available. Just make sure your rice is cooked and chilled beforehand so it stays fluffy when stir-fried.
What’s the best way to dice the chicken for this recipe?
Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating. Aim for about 1/2-inch cubes for the best texture.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even thin slices of beef work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since different proteins cook at different rates.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and replace it with extra firm tofu or a medley of your favorite vegetables. You can also skip the oyster sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.
Why is day-old rice preferred for fried rice?
Day-old rice has dried out a bit, which prevents clumping and makes it easier to stir-fry. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and can turn mushy in the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it’ll become your go-to comfort food that’s ready in a flash. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and make this delicious meal today!
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Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delicious Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines tender diced chicken, fluffy day-old jasmine rice, scrambled eggs, and vibrant vegetables stir-fried to perfection with savory soy and oyster sauces. Perfect for a satisfying homemade dinner or lunch, it brings together classic Asian flavors with minimal fuss in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Grains
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
Oils & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
- Scramble the eggs: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse flavor into the dish.
- Cook vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
- Add rice: Add the day-old cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with a spatula or wooden spoon and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine chicken and eggs: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet, mixing all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the rice: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, making sure everything is well coated. Continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add green onions and seasoning: Add sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything until well combined.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the chicken fried rice immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using day-old cooked rice helps prevent clumping and gives the best texture for fried rice.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs or another protein like shrimp or tofu if preferred.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
- Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce quantity according to your taste preference and dietary salt restrictions.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
