Name: Chicken Fried Brown Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces); Salt (to taste); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided); 3 large eggs (slightly beaten); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 3 green onions (chopped (whites and greens separated)); 2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably chilled); 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)

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Every time I make Chicken Fried Brown Rice, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners where laughter fills the air and everyone shares stories of their day. This dish has a special place in my heart; it’s not just a meal, it’s a memory. I recall my mother preparing this when I was young, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling chicken and fresh vegetables would waft through the house, drawing us all to the kitchen. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a gathering with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to the table. Let’s dive into the magic of Chicken Fried Brown Rice and transform a few basic ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

Why Try This Chicken Fried Brown Rice

It’s a One-Pan Wonder

What I love about Chicken Fried Brown Rice is that it all comes together in one pan. Less mess means less clean-up, and who doesn’t appreciate that after a long day? The flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, creating a symphony of taste in every bite.

Adaptable to Your Taste

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the vegetables or add your favorite proteins. Don’t have chicken? No problem! You can use shrimp or tofu to suit your dietary preferences. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for any family. You can truly make it your own!

Healthy and Wholesome

With brown rice as the base, this dish is not just comforting but nutritious, too. Compared to its white rice counterpart, brown rice is higher in fiber and essential nutrients. This means you can enjoy your meal while feeling great about the health benefits.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Chicken Fried Brown Rice tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, and it makes for a quick lunch or dinner. Just pop it in the microwave, and you have a satisfying meal in minutes!

A Quick Weeknight Meal

With its quick cooking time, Chicken Fried Brown Rice is the ideal dish for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in about thirty-five minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly

Kids love it, adults crave it. It’s a dish that brings the whole family together. You can even get the little ones involved by letting them help with the mixing or measuring. They’ll feel proud to be part of the cooking process, and it can spark their interest in trying new foods.

Ingredients to Make Chicken Fried Brown Rice

The ingredients for Chicken Fried Brown Rice come together in a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The freshness of the vegetables, the heartiness of the chicken, and the fluffy brown rice all contribute to a satisfying meal that the entire family will enjoy.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces: This is the star of the dish, bringing protein and a savory flavor that balances perfectly with the rice.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: This is crucial for cooking and adding richness to the dish.
3 large eggs, slightly beaten: These add a creamy texture and help bind the ingredients together.
3 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for its aromatic qualities that elevate the dish.
3 green onions, chopped (whites and greens separated): They provide a fresh, crisp flavor and color, adding a nice pop to the dish.
2 cups cooked brown rice, preferably chilled: Cold rice works best for frying, ensuring that it doesn’t become mushy.
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: This adds a savory depth and a hint of umami to the fried rice.
2 teaspoons sesame oil: A drizzle of this oil imparts a nutty flavor that’s key to traditional fried rice.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: These colorful veggies bring sweetness and crunch, making the dish more wholesome.

The Method for Chicken Fried Brown Rice

Preparing Chicken Fried Brown Rice is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. Follow these steps and watch how the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together!

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This foundational step ensures that your chicken is flavorful right from the start.
In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color on the outside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Pour in the beaten eggs. Cook, stirring gently, until the eggs are just set. It should take just a couple of minutes. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and the white parts of the chopped green onions. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden.
Now it’s time to add the chilled brown rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps as you stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. You want each grain of rice to get a bit of that delicious oil and flavor.
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. This is where the magic happens! The rice should soak up all that flavor. Next, add the thawed peas and carrots, along with the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs.
Stir everything together, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. This is a great time to taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Finally, stir in the green parts of the chopped green onions, giving the dish a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade Chicken Fried Brown Rice!

Things Worth Knowing

Use cold rice: This prevents the rice from becoming mushy during cooking. Leftover rice works perfectly here.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. This ensures that every ingredient is cooked evenly and gets that beautiful, slightly charred flavor.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to add any additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or snap peas for extra texture and color.
Watch the heat: Keep an eye on the skillet heat. Too high can burn the ingredients, while too low will steam them instead of frying.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about Chicken Fried Brown Rice is how easily it can be personalized. Whether you want it spicy or extra veggie-loaded, there’s a way to make it your own.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It reheats beautifully!
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to balance out the meal.
Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add some sriracha or chili flakes when stirring in the soy sauce for a spicy kick.
Protein variations: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu to cater to your taste preferences.
Herb addition: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can give a fresh twist to the dish. Just sprinkle them on top just before serving!

What to Serve With Chicken Fried Brown Rice

When it comes to enjoying Chicken Fried Brown Rice, there are plenty of delicious options to complement your meal. Here are some ideas:

Steamed vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add a nutritious side that pairs well with the dish.
Salads: A light, refreshing salad with a citrus dressing can cut through the richness of the fried rice.
Spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch and make a great appetizer.
Dipping sauces: Consider serving with soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for an extra flavor boost.
suitable for lunch or dinner: This dish works beautifully for both lunch and dinner, making it a versatile option any day of the week.
Family gatherings: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks as it’s easy to make a large batch that everyone will enjoy.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, using leftover rice is recommended as it helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy while cooking. Cold, day-old rice works best because it’s firmer and will fry up nicely. If you don’t have any leftovers, try to cook your rice ahead of time and let it cool in the fridge before using.

Yes, you can easily make Chicken Fried Brown Rice vegetarian! Just substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for added flavor. You can also load it up with more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. The beauty of this dish is its versatility!

For Chicken Fried Brown Rice, boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal due to its lean texture and quick cooking time. However, you can also use thighs for a juicier flavor. Just remember to cut them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Feel free to choose your favorite cut based on your taste and dietary preferences.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, there are several ways to spice up your Chicken Fried Brown Rice. You can add chili flakes or sriracha when you’re mixing in the soy sauce. For a more subtle heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the spice level according to your preference!

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Brown Rice is a dish that captures the essence of comfort food while offering a deliciously satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to a variety of tastes. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own. Enjoy this meal with family and friends, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.