When it comes to quick and delicious meals, few dishes can rival the simplicity and satisfying flavors of Chicken Fried Rice. This recipe is the perfect solution for weeknight dinners, a great way to use leftover rice, and it’s packed with protein and vegetables. With its savory soy sauce base, tender chicken, and vibrant peas and carrots, this fried rice is not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you prefer to add extra veggies, a splash of oyster sauce, or a sprinkle of green onions for garnish.
Ingredients:
To create this dish, you will need 2 cups of cooked rice, preferably cold, as it helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy when fried. The protein comes from 1 pound of diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. The base of the dish includes 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for cooking, with 1 tablespoon used for the chicken and the other for the vegetables.
The aromatic components include 1 small diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. For the vegetables, use 1 cup of thawed frozen peas and carrots, adding a pop of color and sweetness. To bring everything together, you’ll need 2 large beaten eggs for added texture and richness. The sauce consists of 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, which provides a salty, umami kick, and 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce for depth (optional). Finish with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for a hint of nuttiness and 2 sliced green onions for garnish.
Instructions:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, stir in the thawed peas and carrots, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cold rice. Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
Tips:
For the best texture, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can become mushy when fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour before using. Customize your fried rice by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn. If you enjoy a spicy kick, stir in a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a dash of red pepper flakes. To save time, pre-chopped vegetables and pre-cooked chicken are excellent shortcuts.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like egg rolls, dumplings, or a light cucumber salad. For a more indulgent option, pair it with sweet and sour chicken or sesame tofu. Garnish your fried rice with additional sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of freshness and crunch.
Storage:
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or a bit of water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though reheating on the stovetop helps maintain its texture. If you’d like to freeze your fried rice, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ:
Can I use brown rice or another type of grain?
Absolutely! Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice. Keep in mind that the cooking times and textures may vary slightly.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce adds depth and richness to the dish, but it’s not essential. If you prefer a simpler flavor profile, you can skip it or substitute it with hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and increasing the amount of vegetables or adding tofu as a protein substitute. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce for seasoning.
Conclusion:
Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a way to use up leftover rice, or a dish that’s sure to please the whole family, this recipe has you covered. With its savory flavors, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite in many households.
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Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Description
Savory and satisfying, this Easy Chicken Fried Rice is packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, making it a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
• 2 cups cooked rice, preferably cold
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Cook chicken seasoned with salt and pepper for 5-7 minutes, then set aside.
2️⃣ Add remaining oil to skillet. Sauté onion for 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3️⃣ Stir in peas and carrots, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Push to one side, scramble eggs on the other, and mix together.
4️⃣ Return chicken and add rice. Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir and heat through for 3-4 minutes.