Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? This Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe is here to save your busy evenings! With simple ingredients like chicken, rice, and fresh veggies, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in your favorite proteins or veggies easily. Read on to discover how to create this satisfying dish that even picky eaters will love. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
Aromatics
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 green onions, chopped
Optional Ingredients
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chili flakes for heat
When I make chicken fried rice, I love using day-old rice. It clumps nicely and fries well. Fresh rice often gets mushy. Diced chicken breast brings protein and flavor. You can easily swap it out for shrimp or tofu if you prefer.
Soy sauce adds a savory touch. Sesame oil gives a nice nutty flavor. I often add peas, carrots, and bell peppers for color and crunch.
Aromatics like garlic and onion build a strong base. Green onions add a fresh bite at the end. If you want some heat, add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Beat some eggs if you like. They add richness and texture. Feel free to adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste. Check out the Full Recipe for more details on preparing this dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Prep Your Ingredients: Ensure your cooked rice is cold and clumped together. Chop and dice your chicken and vegetables. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and faster.
Cooking the Chicken
– Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet. Stir-fry the chicken until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set the chicken aside when done.
Sautéing Vegetables
– Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until they smell great. Then, add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
Scrambling Eggs
– Scramble the Eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble them until just cooked, then mix them into the vegetables.
Combining Ingredients
– Add Rice and Chicken: Add the cold rice to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Drizzle with soy sauce and stir well. Break apart any rice clumps as you mix everything together. Cook for another 3-5 minutes for a light fry.
Final Assembly and Serving
– Final Touches: Stir in the chopped green onions. You can add chili flakes if you like some heat. Adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your meal! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Rice
For chicken fried rice, I recommend jasmine or basmati rice. These types have the right texture and flavor. Jasmine rice is slightly sticky, which helps it clump together well when frying. Basmati rice is fluffy, which adds a nice bite to your dish. Using day-old rice is key. Fresh rice can be too wet and make your meal mushy.
Enhancing Flavor
To elevate your chicken fried rice, consider adding extra sauces or spices. Soy sauce is a must, but you can also try oyster sauce for depth. A splash of rice vinegar adds brightness. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes or a little sriracha. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also brighten the dish.
Cooking Method
For the best results, use a large skillet or wok. A wok heats evenly and allows for great stir-frying. If using a skillet, make sure it has high sides. This helps when tossing your ingredients. Preheat your skillet well before adding oil. This step ensures your rice fries nicely instead of steaming.
Variations
Protein Substitutions
You can switch up the protein in your chicken fried rice. Shrimp adds a nice seafood twist. Just make sure to cook the shrimp until pink and firm. Tofu is a great option for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu, pressed and cubed, to get a nice texture. Beef can also work well. Choose flank steak or sirloin for quick cooking. Simply slice it thinly and stir-fry until browned. Each protein brings its own flavor and texture to the dish.
Dietary Adjustments
Want a meatless version? It’s easy! Use tofu or just load up on veggies. A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas gives you great taste. You can make a simple soy sauce mix to season it. Add a dash of sesame oil for rich flavor. This way, you still enjoy delicious fried rice without any meat. Perfect for vegans and vegetarians!
Additional Ingredients
To make your fried rice more fun, add extra ingredients. Pineapple chunks give a sweet bite that pairs well with savory flavors. Eggplant can add a unique texture too. Just cube it and sauté it with the other veggies. You can also toss in some spinach or zucchini for more color and nutrients. These additions bring variety and keep your taste buds excited.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your chicken fried rice, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools first. This helps keep the rice fresh in the fridge. It can last for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead.
Freezing
To freeze your fried rice, follow these steps:
– Let the rice cool completely.
– Scoop it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
– Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
– Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
This way, you can enjoy your chicken fried rice later!
Reheating Tips
When reheating your chicken fried rice, avoid losing its flavor. Here are some good methods:
– Stovetop: Place rice in a skillet with a splash of water. Cover and heat over low. Stir occasionally until hot.
– Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Add a few drops of water. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.
These methods keep your fried rice tasty and prevent it from becoming dry.
FAQs
How long does chicken fried rice last in the fridge?
Answer: Generally, 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s best to cool it down before putting it in the fridge. This helps keep it fresh.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Answer: Yes, frozen mixed vegetables can be a convenient option for this recipe. They save time and add color. Just toss them in while cooking. They will heat up quickly in the pan.
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Answer: Day-old jasmine or basmati rice is ideal as it’s less sticky. Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and clumpy. Day-old rice has a firmer texture and fries better.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal and can be stored for later use. You can cook it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. This saves time on busy nights.
Is this a one-pan recipe?
Answer: Yes, all cooking can be done in one skillet or wok for easy clean-up. This makes the cooking process simple and fun. You won’t have to wash many dishes afterward!
This chicken fried rice recipe is both simple and satisfying. You start with quality rice and fresh ingredients. The steps are clear and easy to follow; you can customize it to your taste. Don’t forget the tips for storage and reheat methods to keep it fresh. Whether you enjoy chicken or prefer veggie options, this dish is perfect for any meal. Now, get cooking and enjoy a tasty plate of fried rice!
