There’s something irresistibly comforting about the crackle of chicken frying in a hot skillet, mingling with the unmistakable aroma of garlic and ginger. On a busy weeknight, when time is tight and the fridge seems bare, I often find myself reaching for this Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe—a delightful transformation of simple leftovers into a hearty, flavorful dish that the whole family can dig into.
This isn’t just any fried rice; it’s a canvas for creativity! Whether you’re looking to incorporate fresh vegetables or mix things up with different proteins, you’ll discover endless variations that suit your taste. Picture tender pieces of chicken nestled within fluffy rice, mingling beautifully with vibrant peas and carrots, all harmonized under a drizzle of soy sauce. It’s the perfect way to elevate your meal prep game without sacrificing time or flavor. Join me as we whip up this quick, satisfying dish that promises to please even the pickiest eaters around your table!
Why is Chicken Fried Rice so versatile?
Endless customization: This recipe lets you switch up proteins and veggies based on what you have on hand.
Time-saving delight: Throwing together this dish makes it a perfect weeknight meal, saving precious time in the kitchen.
Big batch appeal: Cook a large quantity and enjoy leftovers, making busy days easier.
Flavor-packed goodness: Each bite bursts with savory notes from ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, tantalizing your taste buds.
Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
Dive into this quick and tasty Chicken Fried Rice and discover how it can transform your meals!
Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
• For the Rice
- Cooked White Rice – Use day-old rice for the best texture; freshly cooked rice may become too mushy.
• For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts (about 1 1/2 lb.) – Provides a hearty protein base; substitute with ground turkey or tofu for variation.
• For the Veggies
- Medium Onion, Chopped – Adds natural sweetness and texture; shallots or scallions work as alternatives.
- Carrots, Peeled and Diced – Infuses color and sweetness; feel free to use frozen peas as a quick alternative.
- Frozen Peas – Provides a pop of color and sweetness; any quick-cooking vegetable can replace them.
- Cloves Garlic, Minced – Essential for flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Freshly Minced Ginger – Adds warmth and zest; use ground ginger if necessary, but in smaller amounts.
• For the Flavoring
- Neutral Oil – Prevents sticking; sesame oil can infuse extra flavor if desired.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth; tamari is a great gluten-free option.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances taste; adjust according to your preference.
- Kosher Salt – Elevates the overall flavor; use to taste.
• For the Binder
- Large Eggs, Beaten – Adds richness and nutrition while helping to bind the ingredients together.
• For Garnishing
- Green Onions, Thinly Sliced – Delivers a fresh crunch and brightness; chives can be used instead if you prefer.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a splash of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 8 minutes per side. Remove and chop into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions and diced carrots. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Combine Rice and Peas: Introduce the day-old cooked rice and frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is warmed through and mixed well.
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Add Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until mostly cooked. Once done, fold them into the rice mixture, allowing it to blend beautifully.
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Finish with Chicken and Sauce: Return the chopped chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with low-sodium soy sauce and toss in the sliced green onions. Stir everything together, cooking for another minute until heated through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that balance flavors and provide a well-rounded meal.
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Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies create a vibrant contrast, adding crunch and extra savor to your meal. Perfect for sharing!
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Soy Sauce Dipping Sauce: A simple blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a savory touch that enhances every bite of your fried rice.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: The slight bitterness of stir-fried broccoli brings a nice texture and a pop of color to your plate, making it a nutritious side.
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Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet, this salad complements the richness of fried rice while providing a delightful crunch.
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Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables are not only crispy but also add an element of fun and variety to your meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: Turn your dinner into a feast with this sweet dessert. The creamy coconut rice paired with juicy mango creates a delightful contrast to your savory meal.
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Green Tea: A soothing drink that cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of your meal, balancing the richness of the fried rice effortlessly.
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Fried Rice
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to your family’s preferences!
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a satisfying protein twist that keeps things interesting.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in any leftover vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli—make it colorful and nutrient-packed!
- Spicy Addition: For a kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha during cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a refreshing twist that elevates the dish.
- Coconut Flare: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a slightly sweeter and gluten-free option that adds depth to flavors.
- Crunch Factor: Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture of each bite.
- Upping the Umami: Try adding a splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for that extra layer of savory goodness that brings everything together.
- Creative Carbs: Swap the white rice for brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a healthier, lower-carb version that’s still satisfying!
Let your imagination run wild with these variations—this chicken fried rice is a canvas waiting for your personal touch!
Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: For optimal texture, use rice that’s been refrigerated overnight. Freshly cooked rice can lead to a sticky consistency.
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Pre-Chop Ingredients: Save time by preparing your vegetables and chicken the day before. It’ll make your cooking process quicker and smoother!
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Be Cautious with Soy Sauce: Start with less soy sauce when seasoning. It’s much easier to add more later than to fix an overly salty dish!
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Adjust Vegetables: Feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand. This Chicken Fried Rice is customizable and can accommodate various produce!
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Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Cook the eggs just until they are set and slightly runny. They will continue to cook when mixed with the rice, ensuring they stay tender.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Fried Rice is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the chicken and vegetables, such as onions and carrots, up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, your cooked rice can be portioned and refrigerated, ensuring ideal texture when you’re ready to prepare the dish. When it’s time to make your Chicken Fried Rice, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, combine with your rice and peas, and follow the rest of the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll achieve just as delicious results with minimal effort, enjoying a flavorful meal even on the busiest days!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store your chicken fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness.
Meal Prep: This chicken fried rice is perfect for meal prep. Just portion out after cooking and enjoy easy lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh rice for chicken fried rice?
Absolutely! However, using day-old rice is highly recommended as it has the right texture—drier and firmer, thus preventing the dish from becoming mushy. If you need to use freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes before using.
How should I store leftover chicken fried rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
Can I freeze chicken fried rice?
Yes! To freeze, portion out the chicken fried rice into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen chicken fried rice?
For best results, thaw the frozen rice in the fridge overnight. When ready to reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using a stovetop, add a splash of water to prevent dryness and heat over medium until hot throughout.
Can I customize the vegetables in my chicken fried rice?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. You can use bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, or any leftover veggies you have. Simply chop them into small pieces and sauté along with the onions and carrots for the best flavor and texture.
Is chicken fried rice safe for dogs or other pets?
While chicken fried rice can be a tasty treat for pets, make sure to avoid soy sauce and onions, as they can be harmful to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Chicken Fried Rice: Quick, Customizable Comfort Food Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a splash of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 8 minutes per side. Remove and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onions and diced carrots. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine Rice and Peas: Introduce the day-old cooked rice and frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is warmed through and mixed well.
- Add Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until mostly cooked. Once done, fold them into the rice mixture, allowing it to blend beautifully.
- Finish with Chicken and Sauce: Return the chopped chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with low-sodium soy sauce and toss in the sliced green onions. Stir everything together, cooking for another minute until heated through. Serve hot and enjoy!