Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is a classic, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or using up leftover rice. Tender, juicy chicken pieces are stir-fried with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and scrambled eggs, all coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce.

This dish is loved for its balance of textures and bold flavors, as well as its versatility—you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Quick to prepare yet packed with flavor, Chicken Fried Rice is a go-to meal that satisfies cravings and delights the whole family.

Why I Love This Recipe

We love this recipe because it takes simple, everyday ingredients and transforms them into a flavorful, satisfying one-pan meal. Tender, juicy pieces of chicken combine with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and scrambled eggs, all tossed in a savory sauce that perfectly balances salty, sweet, and umami flavors.

Each bite is packed with texture—soft rice, crunchy veggies, and tender chicken—making it endlessly comforting and addictive. Another reason this dish is so beloved is its versatility; you can easily add or substitute vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to suit your taste, making it a customizable weeknight favorite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Chicken Fried Rice is a must-try because it transforms simple pantry staples into a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, crisp vegetables, and scrambled eggs tossed in a savory sauce creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.

It’s quick, versatile, and customizable—you can swap in your favorite vegetables, proteins, or sauces to make it uniquely yours. Beyond its convenience, it delivers restaurant-quality taste at home, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty, comforting dish.

Recipe Details:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: ~420–450 kcal

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, jasmine or long-grain)
• 2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (for finishing)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry for at least 30 minutes. (Day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky.)

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced chicken, season with black pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
3. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. Add a little more oil to the skillet.
2. Pour in beaten eggs and scramble until just set.
3. Remove and set aside with chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add remaining oil to the pan.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the rice to the skillet and break up clumps with a spatula.
2. Return chicken and eggs to the pan.
3. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
4. Stir-fry everything together for 3–4 minutes until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
2. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main dish with a side of soup or spring rolls.
• Pair with Asian-inspired entrées like Kung Pao Chicken or Sweet and Sour Pork.
• Great as a quick lunch or weeknight dinner.

Additional Tips & Variations:

• Rice Tip: Always use cold, day-old rice for best texture. Fresh rice can make the dish mushy.
• Protein Variations: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu.
• Veggie Boost: Add broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
• Healthier Option: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of soy sauce or water to revive the texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board & knife
• Rice cooker (optional, but helpful for perfect rice)

FAQ:

Q1: Can I make this with freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but spread it on a tray and cool for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

Q2: What’s the best oil to use?
Vegetable oil works well, but sesame oil adds authentic flavor.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—just omit the chicken and add tofu or extra veggies.

Q4: Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully and is perfect for lunchboxes.

Q5: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Shredded cooked chicken is a great shortcut.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, delicious, and versatile meal that brings the comfort of takeout right to your kitchen. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, savory soy sauce, and colorful veggies, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it with leftovers or prepping it fresh, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite.