Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Ready in about 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving comfort food without the wait.

• Versatile Ingredients: Utilize leftover rice and chicken, making it an excellent option for reducing food waste and maximizing flavors.

• Customizable: Easily adjust the vegetables and seasonings to suit your preferences or to incorporate what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil

• ½ cup diced onion

• ½ cup diced carrots

• ½ cup frozen peas

• 2 large eggs

• 3 cups cooked white rice

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced

• ½ cup soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small cubes

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the sesame oil. Add the diced onion and carrots; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

3. Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, pour the beaten eggs. Scramble until fully cooked, then mix with the vegetables.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced chicken and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.

5. Season: Pour the soy sauce over the mixture, add the cubed butter, and stir until the butter melts and everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Optionspork, or tofu for a different protein source.: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp, or tofu for a different protein source.

• Vegetable Mix: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the dish's nutritional profile.

• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

While fresh rice can be used, day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and gives a better texture for fried rice.

2. Is it necessary to use sesame oil?

Sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor, but if unavailable, vegetable or canola oil can be used as alternatives.

3. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.

4. How do I prevent the rice from being too dry?

Ensure the rice is properly coated with the sauce and butter. Adding a bit of chicken broth during reheating can also help maintain moisture.

5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian.

6. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

7. Can I freeze chicken fried rice?

Yes, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

8. What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Long-grain white rice, such as jasmine, is ideal due to its texture and ability to separate easily.

9. Can I add pineapple to this fried rice?

Diced pineapple can add a sweet and tangy flavor; add it along with the peas for a tropical twist.

10. How can I make the fried rice spicier?

Incorporate chopped chili peppers, a drizzle of sriracha sauce, or increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Fried Rice offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic choice for a homemade meal. Its adaptability to various dietary preferences and ingredient substitutions ensures it can become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy crafting this delicious dish in your kitchen!

Print

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Enjoy a flavorful and quick homemade version of Chicken Fried Rice with this easy recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s the perfect comfort food that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Customize the dish to suit your tastes, and use leftover rice for the best texture!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil

½ cup diced onion

½ cup diced carrots

½ cup frozen peas

2 large eggs

3 cups cooked white rice

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

½ cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon butter, cut into small cubes

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Sauté Vegetables: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and carrots, cooking for about 5 minutes until tender.

• Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

• Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour beaten eggs on the empty side and scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.

• Combine Ingredients: Add diced chicken and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir everything together.

• Season: Pour soy sauce over the mixture, add cubed butter, and stir until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to avoid sticking.

• Freezing: Cool the fried rice completely, then freeze in a container for up to 2 months.