Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

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There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a perfectly cooked Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that brings together fluffy rice, tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and scrambled eggs, all coated in a savory soy-based sauce. This dish is an easy yet flavorful one-pan wonder that feels both hearty and fresh every time. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe delivers incredible taste with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first joyful step toward making this beloved Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of color, texture, and flavor—from the nutty sesame oil to the subtle sweetness of carrots and peas, right down to the perfectly scrambled eggs.

• Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a toasty, aromatic richness that instantly elevates the dish.
• Diced onion (½ cup): Brings a mild sweetness and delicate crunch when sautéed.
• Diced carrots (½ cup): Provide a subtle earthiness and vibrant orange color for visual appeal.
• Frozen peas (½ cup): No need to thaw—they add a burst of color and natural sweetness.
• Eggs (2): Create soft, fluffy ribbons that blend beautifully with the rice.
• Cooked white rice (3 cups): The foundation of the dish—day-old rice works best for ideal texture.
• Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Adds protein and tenderness to complement the veggies.
• Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Delivers the salty, umami depth that ties all the flavors together.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds a luscious finish and subtle creaminess when stirred in.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances the overall seasoning and balances the dish.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating a large frying pan or wok over medium heat, then add the sesame oil. Toss in the diced onions and carrots, sautéing them until they just begin to soften and release their natural sweetness. This step builds an essential flavor base and texture contrast for your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.

Step 2: Add the Peas

Next, stir the frozen peas into the pan with the softened onions and carrots. The peas warm quickly without needing to thaw, lending a pop of fresh color and gentle sweetness that lightens the overall flavor profile.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until smooth. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan, then pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Using a spatula, scramble the eggs gently until fully cooked. Mixing them into the vegetables at this stage ensures soft egg ribbons throughout your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Chicken

Add your cooked white rice and shredded chicken directly into the pan. Stir everything together thoroughly so the rice grains separate nicely, and the chicken is evenly distributed, creating the perfect hearty base for the next flavor boost.

Step 5: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour in the soy sauce gradually, stirring as you go to coat the mixture evenly. This step infuses the rice and chicken with the classic savory taste that defines any great Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, balancing salty and umami notes to perfection.

Step 6: Stir in Butter

Add the butter to the pan and mix it in until it melts completely. This final touch lends a velvety richness and sheen to the fried rice, making every bite irresistibly smooth and luscious.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Since soy sauce already brings saltiness, taste carefully to achieve the perfect balance that enhances without overpowering the dish.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Serve your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe piping hot, ideally accompanied by a side of “yum-yum sauce” or your favorite dipping condiment for an extra pop of flavor. This dish shines best when warm and fresh from the pan.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro adds a fresh, herbal brightness that complements the savory fried rice beautifully. Toasted sesame seeds also introduce a subtle crunch and nutty aroma, turning a simple presentation into something special.

Side Dishes

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crisp cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or a light miso soup to round out your meal. These contrasting textures and flavors create more layers of enjoyment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Fried Rice Recipe inside hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes, creating edible bowls that impress visually and taste great. You can also transform it into lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld meal that feels light but satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Fried Rice Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fried rice in portioned freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is in a skillet on medium heat, stirring frequently to warm it evenly without drying it out. A splash of water or a small knob of butter can help revive moisture and flavor during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time if using fresh rice. Day-old rice of any kind tends to work best for frying.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked shredded chicken breast or thigh both work great. Thigh meat offers more juiciness and flavor, but breast meat is leaner and still delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables to keep it hearty and delicious while making it meat-free.

Is it necessary to use day-old rice?

Using day-old rice helps prevent clumping and sogginess, yielding the ideal texture for fried rice. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray to cool and dry out a bit before frying.

How can I adjust the recipe for spice lovers?

Add chili garlic sauce, fresh chopped chilies, or a drizzle of sriracha when cooking or serving. These spicy additions add a punch of heat without overshadowing the classic flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is truly a comforting hug in a bowl that’s quick to whip up and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a cozy solo dinner, the harmony of flavors and textures is sure to become a go-to favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the delicious results with your loved ones!

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