Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food—quick, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies. It’s the kind of dish that turns simple pantry staples into something incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re craving takeout flavors or looking to use up leftover rice, this recipe delivers a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.

What makes this dish so special? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated for extra tenderness, the rice gets that perfect golden color with a slight crisp, and the combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates an irresistible umami punch. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and spice levels. Ready to master the art of fried rice? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice

• Better than takeout: Fresh, homemade, and packed with flavor, without the greasy aftertaste.

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

• Great for leftovers: Works best with day-old rice, making it ideal for meal prep.

• Customizable: Swap veggies, use different proteins, or spice it up to your taste.

• One-pan dish: Less mess, easy cleanup, and minimal ingredients.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450

• Carbohydrates: 55g

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

For the Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

For the Fried Rice:

• 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)

• 2 green onions, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.

2. Add diced chicken and coat well. Let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

4. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5 minutes).

5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

6. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the onions until soft.

7. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

8. Stir in the frozen vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

9. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until just set.

10. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.

Step 5: Add Rice and Sauces

11. Add the cooked rice and break up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

12. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

13. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well.

14. Stir in chopped green onions and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

15. Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy with extra soy sauce or chili flakes if desired.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in Chicken Fried Rice plays a key role in building its depth of flavor and creating that signature texture. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main components.

Rice is the foundation of fried rice, and using day-old rice is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which results in a clumpy and mushy dish. When rice sits overnight in the fridge, it dries out slightly, making it easier to fry up and absorb the seasonings. The best types of rice for fried rice are jasmine rice or long-grain white rice, as they remain fluffy and separate well when stir-fried.

Chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ensures that each bite is tender and flavorful. A quick marinade with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil helps to keep the chicken juicy while adding an umami-rich depth of flavor. The cornstarch creates a light coating on the chicken, giving it a smooth, velvety texture when cooked.

Soy sauce and sesame oil are what bring fried rice to life. Soy sauce provides saltiness and depth, while oyster sauce adds a subtle sweetness and richness that enhances the overall flavor. Sesame oil is used sparingly, but its nutty aroma gives fried rice an authentic taste. Using too much sesame oil can overpower the dish, so a small drizzle at the end is enough to bring everything together.

Technique Tips for Chicken Fried Rice

The secret to making the best fried rice lies in a few simple techniques that elevate the dish to restaurant quality.

Always use high heat when cooking fried rice. Stir-frying at high heat ensures that the ingredients cook quickly without becoming soggy. A wok is the best tool for making fried rice because its shape allows for even cooking and easy tossing. If you don’t have a wok, a large non-stick pan works just as well. Make sure the pan is hot before adding any ingredients to achieve that signature smoky, “wok hei” flavor.

Cook ingredients separately for the best texture. Instead of tossing everything into the pan at once, cook the chicken first, set it aside, and then move on to the vegetables and eggs. This method ensures that each ingredient is cooked perfectly without overcooking or turning mushy. Once everything is cooked, the final step is to combine all the ingredients and let the rice fry for a few minutes to develop a slightly crisp texture.

Use the right amount of sauce. While it might be tempting to add extra soy sauce, too much liquid can make the rice heavy and sticky. Fried rice should have a light, fluffy texture with a balance of salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The best approach is to start with a small amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce, mix everything well, and taste before adding more.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While Chicken Fried Rice is traditionally served in a bowl or on a plate, there are creative ways to elevate its presentation.

For a fun and portable option, serve the fried rice in pineapple bowls. Simply cut a pineapple in half lengthwise, scoop out the flesh, and use the hollowed-out halves as serving bowls. The pineapple adds a slight sweetness to the dish, making it an eye-catching and flavorful way to present fried rice for special occasions.

If you want a crispy twist, turn your fried rice into stuffed rice balls. Scoop small portions of cooled fried rice, shape them into balls, and pan-fry them until golden brown. This method creates bite-sized crispy rice balls that are great for appetizers or party snacks. You can even dip them in a sweet chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Another unique way to serve Chicken Fried Rice is in lettuce wraps. Instead of serving it on a plate, spoon the fried rice into crisp lettuce leaves (like iceberg or butter lettuce) and enjoy it as a light, refreshing wrap. This is a great low-carb alternative while still keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Freezing and Storing Chicken Fried Rice

Fried rice is a fantastic dish for meal prep, and it stores well for future meals with the right approach.

For short-term storage, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. Fried rice stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth and stir-fry in a pan for the best texture. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

To freeze Chicken Fried Rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Spread the rice into a thin layer so it freezes evenly, and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a pan for the best texture. Avoid refreezing once thawed, as it can affect the texture.

For individual portions, freeze the rice in small bags or containers. This allows you to take out just the amount you need without defrosting the entire batch.

Healthier Twist Ideas

While Chicken Fried Rice is already a balanced meal, there are a few ways to make it even healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and nutrients. Brown rice provides more whole grains, while quinoa adds extra protein and a slightly nutty flavor. Both options work well and give the dish a slightly different but equally delicious texture.

Use less oil and opt for leaner proteins like chicken breast or tofu. Instead of using vegetable oil, try using a smaller amount of avocado oil or simply stir-frying with a splash of chicken broth to reduce the fat content. Replacing the chicken with tofu or shrimp also makes for a lighter, high-protein alternative.

Boost the vegetable content by adding more greens like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. The more colorful the dish, the more nutrients it contains. Leafy greens wilt beautifully into the rice, while bell peppers add a natural sweetness and crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile dish that fits perfectly into a variety of occasions.

For a casual family dinner, pair it with an Asian-inspired soup like egg drop soup or miso soup. The combination of a warm, comforting soup with the hearty fried rice makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Add a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls to complete the spread.

If you’re hosting a party or potluck, serve Chicken Fried Rice as part of a larger buffet-style meal. Pair it with dishes like teriyaki chicken, sesame beef, or stir-fried vegetables. A fried rice bar is also a fun way to serve it—set out toppings like crispy shallots, chili flakes, extra green onions, and crushed peanuts so guests can customize their plates.

For meal prep and work lunches, divide the fried rice into individual containers with a protein side like grilled shrimp or a hard-boiled egg. This makes it easy to grab a balanced meal during the week without extra effort. Pack a small container of soy sauce or sriracha for extra seasoning when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Fried Rice with freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but spread the rice out on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before frying to prevent it from becoming mushy.

2. What’s the best rice to use?

Day-old jasmine rice works best, but any long-grain rice will do.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work well and don’t need to be thawed beforehand.

4. How do I prevent fried rice from being soggy?

Use day-old rice, high heat, and avoid adding too much soy sauce.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

6. How do I add more spice?

Stir in red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chilies.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! You can reduce the soy sauce slightly and skip the spice for a milder version.

9. Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp cooks quickly and makes a delicious substitute.

10. How do I get restaurant-style fried rice?

Use high heat, cook in batches, and don’t overdo the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. With a few simple techniques, you can create a dish that tastes just as good—if not better—than takeout. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, this fried rice will always be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a homemade classic that never gets old!

Chicken Fried Rice

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• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

For the Fried Rice:

• 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.

2. Add diced chicken and coat well. Let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

4. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5 minutes).

5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

6. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the onions until soft.

7. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

8. Stir in the frozen vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

9. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until just set.

10. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.

Step 5: Add Rice and Sauces

11. Add the cooked rice and break up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

12. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

13. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well.

14. Stir in chopped green onions and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

15. Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy with extra soy sauce or chili flakes if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g