Chicken Fried Rice Recipe | Easy Dinner Ideas

 

If you’re searching for a quick and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Chicken Fried Rice recipe. This beloved dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all tossed together in a savory sauce. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients from your fridge. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this easy chicken fried rice will be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old for the best texture)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking process

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and have them ready. Using day-old rice will give you the best results, as it’s drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Season with a little salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed.

2. Pour the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked, about 2 minutes.

3. Remove the scrambled eggs and set them aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic.

2. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

1. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

2. If you’re using frozen vegetables, they may take a bit longer to heat through.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan with the sautéed vegetables.

2. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. 

3. Toss everything together gently until the rice is heated through and evenly coated with the sauces, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

1. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.

2. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Add More Protein: Feel free to include shrimp, beef, or tofu for a heartier dish.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: Incorporate fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spicy Option: For a kick of heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes while cooking.
• Make it Vegetarian: Simply omit the chicken and use extra vegetables or tofu to keep the dish vegetarian.
• Flavor Boosters: Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for a tangy flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 380 kcal

Protein: 24g

Fat: 14g

Carbohydrates*: 44g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is not only delicious but also an incredibly versatile dish that can be customized to fit your taste preferences. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice and protein while packing in a variety of vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this chicken fried rice is bound to impress your family and friends. 

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy this delightful dish, and happy cooking!