Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Chicken Fried Rice is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. This humble yet incredibly satisfying recipe combines tender diced chicken, vibrant carrots, sweet peas, and fluffy scrambled eggs all tossed together with perfectly seasoned soy sauce and day-old rice. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and offers a beautiful balance of textures that makes every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving a comforting meal, this Chicken Fried Rice will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Fried Rice is how it showcases simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly delicious. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect blend of taste, texture, and color to your skillet.
- Cooked rice: Day-old rice works best to keep the fried rice light and fluffy without clumping.
- Diced chicken: Lean chicken breast or thigh adds juicy protein and soaks up the savory sauce.
- Carrots: Finely diced for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Peas: Bright green peas contribute color and a pop of natural sweetness.
- Eggs: Scrambled directly in the pan for extra richness and texture.
- Soy sauce: The essential seasoning that brings it all together with salty umami depth.
- Vegetable oil: For stir-frying and helping ingredients cook evenly.
- Green onions (optional): To add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of green.
- Garlic (optional): Minced garlic gives just the right aromatic boost.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are chopped and ready to go. Dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and finely chop the carrots. If using garlic and green onions, mince and slice them respectively. Have your day-old rice loosened up with a fork so it doesn’t clump during stir-frying.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and crack in the eggs. Quickly scramble them until just set, then push the eggs to the side of the skillet to make room for the vegetables.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the carrots and peas to the pan, along with garlic if you’re using it. Stir-fry everything until the vegetables are tender-crisp and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the rice. Toss everything together to combine well. Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the mixture and continue stir-frying for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly and the rice to heat through.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions or a few fresh cilantro leaves on top to add bright freshness and a touch of color. A few toasted sesame seeds can also add a delightful nuttiness and texture for an extra special touch.
Side Dishes
Chicken Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed or stir-fried vegetables, a light cucumber salad, or even crispy spring rolls. These sides balance the hearty rice with refreshing crunch and brighten up your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chicken Fried Rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or in mini lettuce cups to create hands-on, bite-sized servings. Another idea is to mold the rice into compact shapes using a small bowl or cup before plating to impress at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit, making your next meal just as tasty.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze the fried rice in portioned containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just make sure it cools completely before freezing to maintain the best texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated Chicken Fried Rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir continuously until heated evenly. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through to avoid cold spots.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which can make your fried rice clumpy. It’s best to use rice that’s been cooked and refrigerated for at least a few hours or overnight for the ideal texture.
What’s the best type of rice for Chicken Fried Rice?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice are perfect choices because they stay separate and fluffy when cooked. Avoid sticky varieties like sushi rice for this recipe.
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or even tofu make excellent alternatives if you want to switch things up or accommodate different dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Add more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas and use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content while boosting nutrition and flavor.
Is Chicken Fried Rice gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fried Rice is one of those versatile, satisfying meals that never gets old. Its simplicity, combined with rich, comforting flavors, means you can whip it up anytime for a family dinner or quick lunch. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to weekday comfort food that’s quick, colorful, and unbelievably tasty!
