There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle of rice in a hot skillet, transforming into a delicious Easy Chicken Fried Rice that’s bound to become a weeknight staple in your home. On one particularly busy evening, with the dinner clock ticking away, I reached for some leftover rotisserie chicken and a bag of frozen mixed veggies lurking in my freezer. In just 30 minutes, a delightful medley of flavors emerged—savory chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice kissed with fragrant sesame oil.
What I love most about this dish is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to impress unexpected guests, you can swap in your favorite veggies, toss in a splash of teriyaki sauce, or even go for a vegetarian twist with tofu. It’s a comforting meal that evokes the essence of your favorite takeout but without the wait. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring excitement back to your dinner table!
Why is Easy Chicken Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
Family-Friendly: Tailor it to your family’s tastes by swapping in veggies and proteins they love, ensuring everyone is happy at the table.
Flavor Boosting: A splash of soy sauce or teriyaki elevates the taste, while sesame oil adds a delightful nuttiness.
Versatile Meal Prep: Make it your own—this recipe thrives on adaptations! Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Minimal Cleanup: One skillet is all you need, making cleanup a breeze. For more delicious meal ideas, check out my collection of quick dinner recipes.
Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that satisfies cravings and won’t leave you slaving over the stove!
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Rice Base
• Garden Vegetable Rice – This ready-to-serve rice saves prep time and ensures perfect texture.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing, it adds richness; can also substitute with canola or avocado oil.
For the Protein
• Rotisserie Chicken – A quick protein source that shreds easily and adds flavor; tofu or canned chicken works too.
• Large Eggs – Adds protein and a fluffy texture; omit for a vegan option or substitute with scrambled tofu.
For the Veggies
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Provides color and nutrition; swap for fresh veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers.
For Flavor
• Sesame Oil – Infuses the dish with a distinct nutty flavor; use more for a stronger taste, if desired.
• Salt – Enhance the overall flavor; adjust to taste for lower sodium options.
• Pepper – Offers a mild heat; try ground white pepper for a different taste dimension.
Embrace this Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe as a canvas for your culinary creativity, adding personal touches that suit your family’s palate!
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice
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Prepare Vegetables: Start by heating a pan over medium heat and cooking the frozen mixed vegetables according to the package instructions. They should be tender and colorful, taking about 5-7 minutes.
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Scramble Eggs: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beaten eggs and stir continuously until they are just set. Remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
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Cook Rice: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and the remaining olive oil. Once heated, add the garden vegetable rice and cook, stirring frequently, for about 10-12 minutes until it starts to brown slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Follow with the cooked eggs and warmed vegetables, mixing well to combine everything and heat for another 2-3 minutes.
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Finish with Flavor: Before serving, drizzle any remaining sesame oil over the fried rice for that wonderful nutty aroma and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge, warm thoroughly until heated through. A few drops of sesame oil can enhance the flavor during reheating.
Wrapping: If freezing, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious taste of your Easy Chicken Fried Rice.
What to Serve with Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
Imagine a lively meal complete with delightful sides that enhance every bite of your delicious fried rice.
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Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers add a fun texture and delicious flavor contrast to the savory fried rice. Perfect for nibbling while the meal is set!
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Tangy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad brightened with vinegar and sesame oil can balance the richness of the fried rice. It’s a vibrant addition that will awaken your palate.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: For a heartier meal, pairing with this classic comfort dish brings a delightful contrast of flavors—crisp, juicy chicken drizzled in a tangy sauce compliments the rice beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed and seasoned, this green veggie adds nutrition and a nice crunch. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
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Chili Garlic Edamame: These lovely little pods bring a spicy kick and unique flavor profile that can elevate your dining experience. They are also great for sharing!
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Hot Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea complements the flavors perfectly, providing a soothing finish to your meal. Its lightness helps to cleanse the palate between bites.
Elevate your Easy Chicken Fried Rice meal with these scrumptious sides, turning dinner into a memorable feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chicken Fried Rice meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the vegetables and chicken up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the rice can be cooked and cooled ahead, as it avoids clumping together when refrigerated. When you’re ready to enjoy your fried rice, simply reheat everything in a skillet and follow the finishing steps—adding a drizzle of sesame oil for that delightful flavor—before serving. This way, you’ll have a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that comes together effortlessly, even on the busiest nights!
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Customize your dish and let your culinary creativity shine with these exciting twists!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh for a hearty plant-based option.
Adding tofu not only makes the dish vegetarian but also packs it with proteins that fill you up beautifully. -
Low-Sodium Flavor: Use low-sodium soy sauce to enjoy all the flavor without the added salt.
This small switch allows you to savor the dish while being mindful of sodium intake—truly a win-win! -
Spicy Kick: Mix in chili paste or sriracha for an enhanced heat level that excites the taste buds.
Just a little can transform your fried rice into a fiery fiesta that spurs on fantastic flavor and warmth! -
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or even spinach for a fresh crunch.
Experimenting with what’s in season provides a burst of color and nutrients, making your dish even more satisfying. -
Umami Boost: Sprinkle some teriyaki sauce or hoisin for an extra layer of savory goodness.
This simple addition works wonders in creating a rich tapestry of flavors that will captivate your family and guests. -
Wild Rice Blend: Use a wild rice blend instead of garden vegetable rice for a unique texture.
This switch adds an earthy nutty flavor that complements the overall dish beautifully, perfect for a twist on tradition! -
Noodle Fusion: Substitute rice with cooked noodles for an exciting pasta-style fried rice experience.
Letting noodles take the stage brings a delightful chewier texture and diversifies your meal selection winningly! -
Fresh Herbs: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or basil for bright, aromatic notes.
Adding herbs can elevate your dish’s flavor profile, making each bite feel vibrant and refreshing.
Tips for the Best Easy Chicken Fried Rice
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Fluff the Rice: Make sure to fluff the rice before using; otherwise, it may become gummy when cooked.
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Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables or alternative proteins based on your family’s preferences; this Easy Chicken Fried Rice thrives on adaptation!
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Mind the Heat: Watch the heat level carefully when cooking the rice to avoid burning. A nice, even browning creates the best flavor.
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Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking—too much salt can overpower the delicate flavors.
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Leftover Perks: Don’t hesitate to use leftover cooked chicken or veggies; it makes for a quicker prep and adds depth to the dish!
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
For the best texture, I recommend using garden vegetable rice or any long-grain rice. Fluff the rice before using it to avoid a gummy consistency. If you’re using leftover rice, day-old rice works wonders since it’s drier, which helps achieve that desired fluffy texture.
How long can I store leftovers of Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or use a microwave until heated through, making sure not to overcook it.
Can I freeze Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet, adding a splash of water to help restore moisture. This way, you can enjoy your homemade dish even on busier nights!
What vegetables can I substitute in the Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! While frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, you can customize by using fresh options like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots based on availability or personal preference. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you’re using fresh veggies—they may require slightly longer to soften.
Is Easy Chicken Fried Rice safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in Easy Chicken Fried Rice are generally safe, I recommend avoiding giving it to pets due to the added salt and seasoning. If you want to treat your furry friend, opt for plain, cooked rice without any spices or additives!
What should I do if my fried rice turns out gummy?
If your fried rice ends up gummy, don’t fret! The key is to start with well-fluffed, dry rice. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, let it cool and dry out a bit before using. When frying, keep the heat level consistent to allow the moisture to evaporate and achieve a delicious, non-gummy texture.
Quick & Tasty Easy Chicken Fried Rice for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Vegetables: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the frozen mixed vegetables according to package instructions until tender and colorful, about 5-7 minutes.
- Scramble Eggs: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beaten eggs and stir continuously until just set. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Rice: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and remaining olive oil. Add the garden vegetable rice and cook, stirring frequently for about 10-12 minutes until it starts to brown slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, salt, and pepper. Add cooked eggs and warmed vegetables, mixing well and heating for another 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Flavor: Drizzle remaining sesame oil over the fried rice before serving.