Welcome to the world of deliciousness with this quick and easy chicken fried rice recipe! This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all brought together in a savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave a taste of Asian cuisine, this recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This chicken fried rice recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress your family and friends.
- Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids, making it a great option for family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this chicken fried rice recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best; it’s drier and prevents clumping.
- Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking and a lean protein source.
- Vegetables: A mix of peas, carrots, and green onions adds color and nutrition.
- Soy Sauce: This provides the salty, umami flavor that is the soul of fried rice.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic depth to every bite.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs add richness and a bit of creaminess to the dish.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle at the end gives a nutty flavor and enhances the overall aroma.
Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Variations for chicken fried rice recipe
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this chicken fried rice recipe! It’s incredibly easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your specific dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations:
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu and add extra veggies for a hearty plant-based option.
- Spicy: Add some chili paste or sriracha to the mix for a spicy kick.
- Brown Rice: Swap out white rice for brown rice for a healthier alternative.
- Different Proteins: Feel free to use shrimp, pork, or beef in place of chicken.
- Curry Fried Rice: Add curry powder for a unique flavor twist that’s simply delightful.
How to Make chicken fried rice recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, dice your vegetables, and have your rice ready. This will make the cooking process smooth and quick.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and your vegetables, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the cooked rice. Break up any clumps of rice and mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Pour in soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir everything together for another few minutes. Finally, push the rice to one side of the pan, scramble the eggs on the other side, and then mix it all together. Serve hot!
Pro Tips for Making chicken fried rice recipe
- Use Day-Old Rice: This helps prevent a mushy texture; freshly cooked rice can be too sticky.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat gives that authentic fried rice flavor and prevents steaming.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
- Customize Seasoning: Adjust soy sauce and sesame oil according to your taste preferences.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh veggies and meats can elevate your dish significantly.
How to Serve chicken fried rice recipe
Garnishes
Top your chicken fried rice with freshly chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a light soup, such as egg drop soup or a simple salad, to create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken fried rice in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. You can even use hollowed-out pineapple shells for a tropical twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to three months. Just make sure to label them clearly.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the moisture, or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just make sure it is cooked and cooled before using it in the recipe.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or corn. Just adjust the cooking time based on how quickly they cook.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based meat substitute and add more veggies.
How do I prevent my rice from being mushy?
Using day-old rice is key, as it dries out a bit in the fridge, making it perfect for frying without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for this delicious chicken fried rice recipe, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is not only quick and easy but also a great way to enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine at home. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy a delightful meal with your loved ones!
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chicken fried rice recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This quick and easy chicken fried rice recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all brought together in a savory sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
Cooked Rice
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, dice your vegetables, and have your rice ready. This will make the cooking process smooth and quick.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and your vegetables, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant.
- Add the Rice and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the cooked rice. Break up any clumps of rice and mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Pour in soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir everything together for another few minutes. Finally, push the rice to one side of the pan, scramble the eggs on the other side, and then mix it all together. Serve hot!
Notes
- Use day-old rice to prevent a mushy texture.
- Cook on high heat for authentic fried rice flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Customize seasoning to taste.
- Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg