Oh, let me tell you about my love for chicken fried rice! It’s one of those dishes that just screams comfort while being super simple to whip up. I mean, who doesn’t adore a bowl of fluffy rice stir-fried with tender chicken and colorful veggies? The best part? You can totally customize it to fit your tastes! Want to throw in some bell peppers or swap the chicken for shrimp? Go for it! This chicken fried rice recipe is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll never want to settle for takeout again! It’s quick, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably leftover for the best texture)
- 1 cup diced chicken breast (make sure it’s bite-sized for even cooking)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (I love using peas, carrots, and corn for a pop of color)
- 2 large eggs (these add a nice richness)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to your taste; I sometimes go a bit heavier!)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for that perfect frying sizzle)
- 2 green onions, sliced (these add freshness and a bit of crunch)
- Salt to taste (just a pinch will do, but feel free to season as you like)
How to Prepare Chicken Fried Rice
Making chicken fried rice is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot before adding anything else. A quick test? Drop a tiny piece of chicken in there—if it sizzles, you’re good to go! This step is key for achieving that beautiful, crispy texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now, toss in your diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink inside. This is where all those lovely flavors start to build!
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the pan. Crack those 2 large eggs right into the pan and scramble them up! Stir gently, allowing them to cook for about 1-2 minutes until they’re just set. Don’t worry if they mix in with the chicken—that’s what we want!
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Rice
Next, it’s time to add in your mixed vegetables and the cooked rice. If you’re using leftover rice, which I highly recommend, it’ll break apart easily and mix beautifully with everything else. Stir everything together, letting the rice heat through for about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Season the Dish
Now, pour 3 tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice mixture. Give it a good stir, ensuring every grain of rice is coated. Taste and adjust with more soy sauce if you like it saltier—this step is all about your personal preference!
Step 6: Finish with Green Onions
Finally, toss in your sliced green onions and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir everything together one last time and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. And just like that, you’ve got yourself a beautiful, colorful chicken fried rice that’s ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
To really nail your chicken fried rice, there are a few little tricks I swear by! First off, using cold, leftover rice is key—it’ll keep the grains from sticking together and give you that perfect texture. If you don’t have leftovers, just spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool before using it. Also, feel free to mix up the veggies! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even some snap peas can add a fantastic crunch and flavor. If you’re a spice lover, toss in a little chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. And remember, don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows everything to fry nicely instead of steaming. Lastly, taste as you go—don’t be shy about adjusting the soy sauce or adding a dash of sesame oil for extra depth. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the nutritional content of this chicken fried rice, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can’t provide exact numbers, I can give you some typical estimates to guide you!
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: Around 15g
- Fat: About 10g (with only 1.5g saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 50g
- Sodium: Estimated at 600mg
- Sugar: Approximately 2g
- Fiber: Around 2g
These values can help you estimate the nutritional content, but remember, it’s always best to calculate based on your specific ingredients for the most accurate assessment. Enjoy your delicious creation, and don’t stress too much about the numbers—focus on the flavors and satisfaction!
FAQs About Chicken Fried Rice
Can I use different proteins in chicken fried rice?
Absolutely! You can swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on what protein you’re using.
What if I don’t have leftover rice?
No worries! If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes. This helps to dry it out a bit, making it easier to stir-fry without getting mushy.
How should I store leftover chicken fried rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.
Can I freeze chicken fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 1-2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.
What can I add for extra flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or even some fresh ginger while cooking. You can also top it with a drizzle of soy sauce or hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Customizable with your favorite proteins and veggies—make it your own!
- Packed with flavor, thanks to the savory soy sauce and fresh ingredients.
- Healthy option with balanced protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite.
- Leftover-friendly—great for using up that extra rice and chicken!
- One-pan meal means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy!
- Deliciously satisfying and versatile—can be served on its own or as a side!
Serving Suggestions
Chicken fried rice is such a versatile dish, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces! If you want to keep it light, a simple cucumber salad or a crunchy Asian slaw adds a refreshing contrast. Feeling a bit more indulgent? Serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or dumplings for that perfect bite. For those who love a little heat, a drizzle of sweet chili sauce or a spicy sriracha can elevate your meal to the next level!
And don’t forget about a nice soy or teriyaki sauce on the side for those who love to dip! Whether you’re enjoying it solo or as part of a larger feast, chicken fried rice is sure to shine and please everyone at the table.
Print
Chicken Fried Rice: 7 Comforting Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and tasty chicken fried rice recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup diced chicken breast
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Push chicken to one side and crack eggs, scrambling them.
- Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan.
- Pour soy sauce over the rice and mix well.
- Add green onions and salt, stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, serve hot.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for better texture.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste.
- Add more vegetables if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Chicken Fried Rice, Fried Rice, Chicken Recipe