There’s something undeniably satisfying about a hearty bowl of Chicken Fried Rice, and this recipe is my go-to for weeknight dinners. You know those evenings when you’re exhausted after a long day, but your family still expects a delicious meal? That’s where this quick and customizable dish comes in. In just 30 minutes, you can whip together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, all coated in a savory sauce that rivals any takeout.
I discovered this recipe during one of my pantry raids, where I unearthing hidden gems in my fridge inspired me to create a dish that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. You can swap in any veggies you have on hand, and even use leftover rice, making it an effortless solution to those “What’s for dinner?” dilemmas. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for trying this delightful Chicken Fried Rice that brings comfort and vibrant tastes to your table!
Why is this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Your Fingertips: This recipe is designed for anyone, regardless of cooking skill. With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Endless Customization: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfectly tailored to your family’s taste.
Savory Satisfaction: The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of veggies creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick Meal Solution: In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome, homemade meal that’s healthier than takeout and full of nutrition.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Enjoy the comfort of this delightful Chicken Fried Rice right at home!
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
• Cooking Oil – Essential for stir-frying, helps to cook ingredients evenly. Substitution: Canola, peanut, or sesame oil are great alternatives.
• Chicken Breasts – Provides lean protein; can be substituted with tofu or shrimp for a different protein source.
• Sherry – Adds depth of flavor; can use rice vinegar or chicken broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.
• Honey – Natural sweetness; maple syrup can serve as a similar substitute.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
For the Vegetables
• Carrots, Celery, Onions, Mushrooms, Garlic – These veggies contribute flavor and nutrients; swap based on preference or seasonal availability.
• Eggs – Function as a binder and add richness; can use scrambled silken tofu for a vegan option.
• Jasmine Rice – The base of the dish that provides texture; day-old rice is preferred for the best results.
• Oyster Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; omit or use mushroom sauce for a vegetarian version.
• Peas and Green Onions – Add freshness and color; feel free to use any other seasonal vegetables.
This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is all about making dinner easy and delicious!
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
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Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking your jasmine rice ahead of time. Using chilled, day-old rice is ideal for the best texture and prevents clumping.
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Heat the Oil: In a large wok or frying pan, heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil over high heat until it’s smoking. This step is crucial for a great stir-fry texture.
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Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken breasts to the hot oil, spreading them out evenly. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in sherry, honey, and soy sauce, stirring well for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan and incorporate those delicious flavors. Then, set the chicken aside.
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Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same wok, add a little more oil if needed and toss in your chopped vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant in color.
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Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and add whisked eggs. Stir them until fully cooked, resembling scrambled eggs, before mixing everything together.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken and your chilled rice to the wok. Break up any large rice clumps while stir-frying everything together for another 2-3 minutes until well blended.
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Finish the Dish: Add oyster sauce, extra soy sauce, frozen peas, and sliced green onions. Stir until the rice is evenly colored and heated through, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: Garnish with additional green onions or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a fiery kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive moisture and texture; stir-fry for 3-5 minutes.
Room Temperature: Allow any uneaten Chicken Fried Rice to cool before storing in the fridge. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Fried Rice is a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare all your chopped vegetables and chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, make your jasmine rice a day ahead and keep it chilled to ensure the perfect fried rice texture. When it’s time to cook, heat your oil as instructed, then stir-fry the chicken and veggies – they’ll taste just as fresh! Finally, add the rice and complete the dish according to the recipe instructions. By prepping the components beforehand, you’ll save time while maintaining quality, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal is just minutes away!
Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Chicken Fried Rice recipe your own with these fun substitutions!
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Vegetable Medley: Swap out the standard vegetables for whatever you have in the fridge—zucchini, bell peppers, or snap peas add their own unique crunch!
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Protein Power: Change the chicken to beef, shrimp, or even tofu, ensuring a protein-packed meal that caters to your preferences.
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Spice It Up: Add a touch of heat with fresh chilies, a dash of sriracha, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving for a burst of freshness and added complexity in flavor.
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Nutty Twist: Mix in toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts to give your fried rice a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving to enhance the dish with a bright, tangy finish that elevates every bite.
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Egg-Free Option: Replace the eggs with scrambled silken tofu for a vegan-friendly twist that maintains the richness while keeping it plant-based.
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Umami Boost: Experiment with miso or a splash of fish sauce instead of soy sauce for a deep, savory flavor that will enhance your dish immensely.
What to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your vibrant Chicken Fried Rice with these delightful sides and accompaniments!
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Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh vegetables, spring rolls offer a wonderful crunchy contrast to the soft textures of fried rice. They’re a light, delightful appetizer that prepares your taste buds for the main event!
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Garlic Broccoli: This steamed or stir-fried dish brings a healthy green element to your meal. Its subtle garlic flavor complements the umami-rich notes of the fried rice.
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Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of this simple soup adds comforting warmth and a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the hearty rice dish.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: For those craving more protein, this dish introduces a tangy flavor profile that contrasts remarkably with the savory fried rice. It’s an adventure for your taste buds!
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Asian Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp, cooling effect to balance the dish’s richness. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it’s a perfect palate cleanser.
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Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a little heat, drizzling chili oil over your Chicken Fried Rice not only kicks up the flavor but also adds a lovely burst of color.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this Thai classic balances out the savory meal with its creamy coconut flavor and sweet notes, providing the perfect way to end your dining experience.
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Green Tea: A soothing cup of green tea helps cleanse your palate and enhances the meal with its herbal notes, making it a wonderful drink pairing with the Chicken Fried Rice.
Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Rice
• Smoke the Oil: Always allow the oil to reach smoking point before adding ingredients to lock in that perfect stir-fry texture and flavor.
• Meal Prep Matters: Chop and prepare all your ingredients beforehand. Stir-frying is fast, and having everything ready prevents overcooking your veggies.
• Choose Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, day-old rice improves the texture, preventing it from becoming mushy or clumping together in your Chicken Fried Rice recipe.
• Mind the Salt: Be cautious with soy and oyster sauce, as they can add significant saltiness. Taste as you go to avoid oversalting.
• Vegetable Crunch: For the best stir-fry experience, keep your veggies crunchy; overcooking can lead to sogginess, ruining both texture and taste.
• Customize with Ease: Feel free to swap out proteins and vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is all about creativity!
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Chicken Fried Rice?
Day-old jasmine rice is ideal for this recipe because it has dried out slightly, preventing clumping and ensuring fluffy individual grains. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook jasmine rice ahead of time and refrigerate it for at least a few hours before using it in the dish.
How long can I store leftover Chicken Fried Rice?
You can store leftover Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To ensure the best quality, reheat it in a microwave or skillet until it’s heated through, making sure not to overcook the vegetables along the way.
Can I freeze Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of Chicken Fried Rice in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results. This method helps maintain the texture and flavors of your delicious meal.
What vegetables can I use in Chicken Fried Rice?
The beauty of Chicken Fried Rice lies in its versatility! You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or even leftover veggies from your fridge. Just make sure to give them a quick stir-fry to maintain their color and crunch, making your dish vibrant and nutritious.
Is Chicken Fried Rice healthy?
Yes, it can be! This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is packed with lean protein from the chicken and lots of colorful vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or omitting the oyster sauce to achieve a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
To prevent mushy rice, always use chilled, day-old rice and ensure your wok or pan is hot enough so that the ingredients sear rather than steam. Stir-fry quickly and keep the rice moving, breaking up any clumps, and this will help each grain retain its texture.
Savory Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking your jasmine rice ahead of time. Using chilled, day-old rice is ideal for the best texture and prevents clumping.
- Heat the Oil: In a large wok or frying pan, heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil over high heat until it’s smoking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken breasts to the hot oil and sear for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in sherry, honey, and soy sauce, stirring well for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same wok, add more oil if needed and toss in your chopped vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and add whisked eggs, stirring until fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken and chilled rice to the wok, breaking up any large rice clumps.
- Finish the Dish: Add oyster sauce, extra soy sauce, peas, and green onions. Stir until evenly colored and heated through.