Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice
- One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap chicken for another protein.
Tools You’ll Need
- Bowl for the eggs
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Chicken Fried Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout-style comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice, chilled (day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into small pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add the peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space.
- Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and eggs.
- Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat the rice evenly.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and heat through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper, if needed.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Use Day-Old Rice: Chilled, day-old rice prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- High Heat is Key: Cook over high heat to give the rice a slightly crispy texture.
- Customize It: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or bean sprouts for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with egg rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with chili garlic sauce or sriracha for an extra kick of heat.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use freshly cooked rice?
A: Yes, but spread it out on a tray to cool and dry slightly before using to avoid stickiness.
Q2: What can I substitute for chicken?
A: Shrimp, tofu, or leftover pork are excellent substitutes.
Q3: Is sesame oil necessary?
A: While optional, sesame oil adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
Conclusion: A Takeout Favorite Made at Home
This Chicken Fried Rice is easy, delicious, and infinitely customizable. Perfect for a quick dinner or a creative way to use up leftover rice and veggies, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and reviews—we’d love to see your fried rice creations!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Rice!