Chicken Fried Rice
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Chicken Fried Rice. I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was a weeknight dinner, and I was short on time but still craving something hearty and satisfying. The aroma of garlic and sautĂ©ed vegetables filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. It’s amazing how a simple combination of ingredients can transport you to a cozy restaurant, right in the comfort of your home. What’s even better is how versatile Chicken Fried Rice is; you can customize it to fit your mood, whether you’re in the mood for extra veggies or a spicy kick. The best part? It comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! So, let’s dive into this delicious journey together, shall we? You’ll find that this recipe not only tastes fantastic but is also a wonderful way to use up leftover rice and vegetables.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Easy
385 kcal
28 g
Low FODMAP
15 g
Chef Knives, Cutting Board, 12-inch Non-Stick Skillet
The Appeal of This Chicken Fried Rice
It’s a One-Pan Wonder
One of the main reasons I absolutely love Chicken Fried Rice is that it all comes together in a single pan. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option. You can toss everything in, stir, and in no time, you’re ready to eat.
Perfect for Leftovers
If you have leftover rice sitting in your fridge, this dish is perfect for you! Using day-old rice makes the dish fluffy and prevents it from becoming mushy. Plus, you can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste.
Cooked to Your Liking
Everyone has their own preference for how they like their fried rice. Whether you prefer it extra crispy or a bit softer, you can easily adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired texture. Just make sure to watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
Kid-Friendly
This dish is also a hit with kids! The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory soy sauce makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters. You can sneak in extra veggies, and they might not even notice!
Flavor-Packed
The balance of flavors in Chicken Fried Rice is simply delightful. The sweetness from the carrots, the earthiness of the green onions, and the savory notes from the soy sauce create a wonderful harmony that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy
In a rush? No problem! This recipe comes together in under thirty minutes, making it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
When it comes to Chicken Fried Rice, the ingredients are what truly make it shine. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The key players here are the chicken, rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables.
- ¾ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – This is the star protein that keeps the dish filling and satisfying.
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil – This helps to sautĂ© the ingredients and adds a subtle flavor.
- 2 Tbsp butter – For richness and to bring a lovely flavor to the eggs.
- 3 cups cooked rice – The essential base of any fried rice, ideally made a day ahead for the best texture.
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil – Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1â…“ cups frozen peas and carrots blend – These vegetables add color and a slight sweetness.
- 3 green onions, chopped – For a fresh crunch and a pop of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic base.
- 3 large eggs – Scrambled eggs add a lovely texture and richness.
- 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – For that essential umami flavor that ties everything together.
Putting Together Chicken Fried Rice
Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients, it’s time to put everything together. Trust me, making Chicken Fried Rice is simpler than you might think. Just follow these easy steps!
- Start by heating vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. This is the perfect time to add the chicken. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, around five to seven minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly. Once it’s done, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. This step is crucial for keeping the chicken juicy.
- Next, melt butter in the same skillet. The residual heat and flavor will enhance the next steps. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until just set, taking about two to three minutes. Once they look fluffy and almost fully cooked, transfer them to the plate with the chicken. You want them soft but not too runny.
- Now, add toasted sesame oil, along with the frozen peas and carrots and the chopped green onions. Sauté this mixture for about a minute. You want the veggies to be vibrant and slightly tender but not mushy, so keep stirring.
- Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point! Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Now it’s time to bring everything back into the skillet. Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan, then toss in the cooked rice. Use a spatula to gently break up any clumps of rice, making sure it’s well incorporated with the other ingredients.
- Drizzle the entire mixture with soy sauce and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure an even coating of flavor. It’s a beautiful sight when the rice starts to take on that lovely color!
- Allow the dish to cook for an additional three to five minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens as everything heats through and flavors meld together. You want the rice slightly crispy and heated all the way through.
- Once it’s done, give it a final taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and if you like it spicier, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste!
- Serve your delicious Chicken Fried Rice hot and enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Day-Old Rice: The best rice for fried rice is cold, day-old rice because it dries out a little and helps prevent clumping during cooking.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat is essential for achieving that desirable crispy texture in the rice.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking; if you have a lot of ingredients, cook in batches to maintain a high temperature.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand, such as bell peppers or broccoli.
Tips and Variations
While Chicken Fried Rice is delicious as is, there are many ways to make it your own. Here are some tips to help you customize this dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked fried rice in a sealed container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
- Add Heat: If you enjoy spice, add chopped fresh chilies or a drizzle of sriracha to the finished dish.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different types of soy sauce or a splash of teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
Great Combinations for Chicken Fried Rice
When serving Chicken Fried Rice, there are plenty of options to enhance the dining experience. Here are some suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp cucumber salad drizzled with sesame dressing pairs beautifully with the warmth of the fried rice.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious side that complements the flavors of the dish.
- Spring Rolls: Serve with vegetable spring rolls for a delightful starter that’s fun to share.
- Perfect for Lunch Boxes: Chicken Fried Rice makes a fantastic option for lunch boxes; it’s easy to pack and tastes great cold or reheated.
- Picnic Delight: This dish can also be a great addition to a picnic, served alongside sliced grilled chicken or fresh fruit.
- Casual Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks and casual get-togethers, you can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chicken Fried Rice is not only a quick and easy meal but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll find that it brings warmth and comfort to your home, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones!
Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Melt butter in the skillet. Add eggs and scramble until just set. Transfer eggs to a plate and set aside.
- Add toasted sesame oil and frozen peas and carrots mix, and green onions to the skillet and sauté for about a minute. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back to the pan, then stir in the rice. Drizzle with soy sauce and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until warm.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze cooked fried rice in a sealed container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Substitute the chicken with tofu or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
- Tip 5: If you enjoy spice, add chopped fresh chilies or a drizzle of sriracha to the finished dish.
