Name: Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs, beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Fried Rice is a classic favorite that brings together savory chicken, veggies, and rice in a harmonious combination. It’s easy to make, customizable, and quick to prepare. The soy sauce adds a rich depth of flavor, while the egg and vegetables offer a balance of texture and freshness. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice, making it an efficient and tasty meal solution.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

Prepare the rice: If you’re using fresh rice, let it cool down or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to get the best texture for fried rice. If you have leftover rice, that’s even better!
Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then add the diced chicken. Season with a little salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until soft. Add the peas and carrots and garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Scramble the eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, then pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Then add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Season: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil (if using). Stir everything together until the rice is well-coated with the sauce and everything is heated through.
Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 20-25 minutes to make, making it a perfect meal for busy nights or family dinners.

Variations

Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and substitute with tofu or just add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce for some heat.
Extra protein: Include shrimp, pork, or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Leftover chicken fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil. Stir occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of cold rice?

Yes, you can use fresh rice, but it’s best to let it cool down to prevent it from becoming too mushy when fried.

2. Can I make chicken fried rice without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use alternatives like tamari, coconut aminos, or a soy sauce substitute if you are avoiding soy or gluten.

3. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or simply increase the soy sauce for added flavor.

4. How do I make the rice non-sticky for fried rice?

Using cold rice works best for fried rice, as it’s drier and less likely to stick together. Fresh rice can be used if cooled for 30 minutes.

5. Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds more texture and nutrients, making it a great alternative to white rice.

6. How can I make this dish vegan?

Omit the chicken and eggs, and substitute the oyster sauce with a vegan version or simply use more soy sauce. Add tofu for protein if desired.

7. Can I freeze chicken fried rice?

Yes, you can freeze the fried rice. Store it in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat as directed.

8. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn work perfectly in chicken fried rice.

9. How do I prevent the rice from being too greasy?

Make sure to use only a small amount of oil when cooking the chicken and vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of oil when cooking the rice if preferred.

10. Can I add other proteins to this dish?

Yes, you can easily add shrimp, pork, or even beef to make this dish more versatile. Just make sure to cook the protein fully before adding the rice.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Rice is an easy-to-make, customizable dish that brings together all the right ingredients for a tasty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it with chicken, extra veggies, or some added spice, this dish is a perfect option for a quick dinner that’s both comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice! Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite side dish for a complete meal