Irresistible Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in 30 Minutes

The moment you take a whiff of sizzling chicken fried rice, your taste buds start dancing like they just won the lottery. Imagine tender chicken pieces mingling with colorful veggies, all wrapped up in fluffy rice, kissed by soy sauce and a hint of garlic. It’s like a savory hug for your stomach! This dish is pure comfort food, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Now, let’s talk about the memories that come flooding back whenever I whip up this delightful dish. Picture me at my childhood kitchen table, surrounded by family, as my mom masterfully tossed ingredients into her trusty frying pan. The aroma wafted through the air like an invitation to feast. Chicken fried rice was our go-to dish for celebrations and casual dinners alike—every bite bursting with flavor and nostalgia. You’ll want to keep this recipe close because it’s ideal for any occasion, from lazy Sundays to spontaneous get-togethers. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will make your mouth water!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This chicken fried rice recipe is easy to prepare even on busy nights when time is tight
  • The combination of flavors creates a delicious harmony that’s hard to resist
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what leftovers you have in the fridge!

Ingredients for chicken fried rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless Chicken Breasts: About 2 cups diced chicken gives the dish its protein punch and juicy bites.

  • Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best; it’s drier and prevents mushiness while frying.

  • Mixed Vegetables: You can use fresh or frozen; peas, carrots, and bell peppers add color and crunch.

  • Eggs: Two large eggs enhance richness and provide that classic fried rice texture.

  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that elevates all flavors.

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.

  • Sesame Oil: A drizzle adds a nutty finish that makes every bite irresistible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make chicken fried rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get everything ready before you start cooking! Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice your vegetables. Having everything prepped helps streamline the process.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in your diced chicken and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Crack your eggs into the empty space and scramble them until fully cooked. Mix them together with the chicken once done.

Step 4: Add Vegetables & Garlic

Stir in your mixed vegetables and minced garlic next. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice & Sauce

Add in your cooked rice along with soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through—about another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your amazing chicken fried rice onto plates or bowls. You can garnish it with green onions or sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy!

This easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds! So go ahead—make some memories around your own kitchen table with this comforting dish that feels just like home!

You Must Know

  • This amazing chicken fried rice recipe offers more than just a quick meal; it delights your taste buds and makes leftovers a dream
  • The colorful veggies and tender chicken create a feast for the eyes as well
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then chop your vegetables and prepare your rice. Sear the chicken first, followed by the veggies, then toss everything together with soy sauce for that perfect chicken fried rice experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have in your fridge. Try adding scrambled eggs for protein or sprinkle in some chili flakes for heat. Customize this dish to make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and heat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To get that authentic “wok hei” flavor, use a hot pan and cook quickly
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan or your rice will turn mushy
  • Always use cold rice for better texture!

I remember one fateful dinner when I decided to impress my friends with this dish. They devoured every last grain of rice, and I was crowned the “Fried Rice King” of our group!

FAQs:

What is chicken fried rice?

Chicken fried rice is a popular dish made with cooked rice, diced chicken, and various vegetables, all stir-fried together for a delicious meal. This dish typically includes ingredients like peas, carrots, and green onions, seasoned with soy sauce or other savory sauces. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized based on personal preferences and what you have on hand. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.

How do I make chicken fried rice?

To make chicken fried rice, start by cooking some rice and letting it cool. In a large pan or wok, heat oil and add diced chicken, stirring until cooked through. Then, add your choice of vegetables along with the cold rice. Stir-fry everything together and season with soy sauce or other sauces to taste. Be sure to cook over high heat for that signature fried rice texture. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Can I use leftover chicken for chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time when making chicken fried rice. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it during the stir-frying process. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps reduce food waste in your kitchen. Leftover rotisserie chicken works especially well in this dish, providing added richness and depth to your meal. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

What vegetables can I add to chicken fried rice?

You can customize your chicken fried rice by adding various vegetables based on your preference. Common choices include peas, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and corn. You can also add mushrooms or snap peas for extra crunch. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies to create a unique version of this classic dish.

Conclusion for chicken fried rice:

In summary, chicken fried rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful vegetables and perfectly cooked rice. It’s quick to prepare and adaptable, making it an excellent option for using leftovers or seasonal produce. By following simple steps and seasoning to taste, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this dish offers both convenience and satisfaction in every bite.

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Chicken Fried Rice


  • Author: Mark Taylor
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Chicken Fried Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice stir-fried to perfection. With a delicious blend of soy sauce and garlic, this quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the nostalgic taste of homemade meals with every satisfying bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups boneless chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces and dicing vegetables.
  2. In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add oil and sauté the diced chicken until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Push the chicken to one side of the pan and scramble the eggs in the empty space until fully cooked.
  4. Stir in mixed vegetables and minced garlic; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender but crisp.
  5. Add cooked rice along with soy sauce and sesame oil; stir everything together until well combined and heated through (about 5 minutes).
  6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Use cold, day-old rice for better texture. Customize by adding any leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand. For added heat, sprinkle chili flakes into the mix.

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