Name: Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups frozen peas and carrots mix; 3 large eggs, lightly beaten; 3 cups day-old cooked rice (such as Jasmine or Basmati); 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil; 3 green onions, sliced, for garnish

This Chicken Fried Rice is a classic and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables are stir-fried together with a savory sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Versatile: This fried rice is packed with a delicious combination of savory and umami flavors, thanks to the soy sauce and sesame oil. You can easily customize it with your favorite protein and vegetables.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Quick and Healthy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a healthier option compared to takeout, as you can control the amount of oil and sodium.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken Fried Rice:

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into small cubes for quick cooking.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Vegetable oil: For stir-frying the ingredients.
Onion: Chopped, for flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Frozen peas and carrots mix: Adds color, sweetness, and convenience.
Eggs: Lightly beaten, adds richness and protein.
Cooked rice: Day-old, such as Jasmine or Basmati, for a better texture when stir-fried.
Low sodium soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor.
Dark soy sauce: Adds a deeper color and a richer flavor.
Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
Green onions: Sliced, for garnish and a mild onion flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Scramble the Eggs

Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the frozen peas and carrots, and cook until heated through. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, add the last tablespoon of oil, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Rice

Add the cooked rice and chicken to the skillet and mix with the vegetables and eggs. Stir-fry for a few minutes to heat everything through. Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil, and stir well to coat the rice evenly. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and soy sauce to your liking.

Step 4: Serve

Continue to cook and stir the fried rice for a few more minutes, or until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use day-old rice: Day-old rice has a drier texture that’s ideal for stir-frying, preventing the dish from becoming mushy.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or corn kernels, for added nutrition and color.
Choose your protein: Besides chicken, you can use beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Control the sodium: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce or adjust the amount to your liking.
Stir-fry technique: Cook the fried rice over high heat and stir occasionally, rather than constantly, to allow the rice to get slightly crispy.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

Main Course: This Chicken Fried Rice is a complete and satisfying meal on its own.
Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired main courses.
Lunchbox Friendly: Pack leftovers for a delicious and convenient lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

While day-old rice is recommended for its drier texture, you can use freshly cooked rice if you spread it on a tray and cool it in the refrigerator for a few hours before using.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dish while stir-frying.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Chicken Fried Rice that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!