Chicken Fried Rice is a beloved dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all stir-fried to perfection. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers, and it makes for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to create a satisfying Chicken Fried Rice that’s bursting with flavor and easy to customize. Let’s dive into why this dish is so special and how you can make it at home!

Reasons to Love Chicken Fried Rice

There are countless reasons why Chicken Fried Rice is a go-to dish for many. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, ensuring everyone gets a meal they love.
Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Kid-Approved: The fun mix of colors and textures makes it an appealing dish for kids and adults alike.

Ingredient Breakdown

To whip up your Chicken Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed: This cut of meat is juicy and flavorful, providing the perfect base for your dish.
1/2 tsp sea salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the dish.
3 Tbs extra light olive oil: A high heat oil ideal for stir-frying, helping to achieve that perfect texture.
4 large eggs: These provide a rich, creamy texture and additional protein.
5 cups cooked white rice, chilled: Day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and easier to fry.
2 Tbsp soy sauce: For that quintessential umami flavor; feel free to add more to taste.
1 1/2 tsp sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor, making the dish more aromatic.
12 oz frozen peas and carrots, fully thawed: A colorful addition that also brings sweetness and crunch.
1/4 cup green onion, chopped: For a fresh, bright finish.

What’s in the Gear List

Before you get cooking, gather the necessary gear to make your Chicken Fried Rice:

Wok or Large Skillet: A wide surface area helps with even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula is essential for stir-frying ingredients without breaking them apart.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping your chicken and vegetables with ease.
Measuring Spoons: To ensure you get the seasoning just right.
Mixing Bowl: Ideal for whisking eggs before adding them to the pan.

Step-by-Step: Chicken Fried Rice

Let’s get started with the cooking process. Follow these steps for a delicious Chicken Fried Rice:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with sea salt and black pepper, mixing well to coat evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra light olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the hot oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl, whisk them until combined, and pour into the hot pan. Scramble the eggs for about 2-3 minutes until they are just set. Remove them from the pan and set aside with the chicken.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the thawed peas and carrots to the pan, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Add the chilled cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables for about 5 minutes, allowing it to get slightly crispy.

Step 7: Season the Rice

Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well to ensure all the rice is coated. Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan, stirring everything together to combine.

Step 8: Finish with Green Onions

Finally, stir in the chopped green onions, mixing to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Chicken Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional green onions if you like. Enjoy this delicious meal with family or friends!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make your Chicken Fried Rice a bit healthier, consider these tweaks:

Brown Rice: Substitute white rice for brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
More Veggies: Add in more vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra vitamins.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
Less Oil: Reduce the amount of cooking oil to cut down on fat.

Troubles You Can Avoid

When making Chicken Fried Rice, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Always use chilled rice to prevent clumping and ensure a better texture.
Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to allow for proper stir-frying.
Not Prepping Ingredients: Have everything chopped and ready to go before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Flavor is key!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep and storing leftovers. Here are some tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use different proteins for Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, tofu, or even keep it vegetarian with just vegetables.

What type of rice is best for Chicken Fried Rice?

Day-old white rice works best as it’s less sticky. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for added fragrance.

How can I make Chicken Fried Rice spicy?

Add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

Can I make Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes! It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

The Takeaway

Chicken Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow and allows room for customization, letting you create a dish that suits your taste perfectly. With a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, it’s a wholesome choice for any dinner table. So gather your ingredients, fire up that wok, and enjoy a homemade Chicken Fried Rice that will impress everyone at your table!