If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with a comforting staple, this BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender, seasoned chicken and caramelized Japanese BBQ sauce tossed into fluffy rice and scrambled eggs, it’s a wonderful twist on classic fried rice that bursts with bold, satisfying taste in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this flavorful dish will quickly become a favorite in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Each element plays a vital role: from the bold spices that elevate the chicken to the eggs that add richness, every ingredient works together to create a harmonious dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and delicious.
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
- 1 Tablespoon Dark Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky spices perfectly.
- 1 Tablespoon Smoked Paprika: Infuses a deep, smoky flavor that’s essential for that BBQ vibe.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Provides a savory punch without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness, complementing the paprika beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard: Introduces a gentle tang to heighten the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing all the layered flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Gives a mild heat and depth to the seasoning mix.
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil (divided): Helps in perfectly searing the chicken and frying the rice with a lovely golden finish.
- 2 cups Cooked Rice (preferably chilled overnight): The ideal texture for fried rice that is fluffy and firm.
- 2 large Eggs: Scrambled right in the rice to add richness and a beautiful golden color.
- 2 Tablespoons Japanese BBQ Sauce: The star sauce that delivers sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors in every bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
First, combine the dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, dry mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a rich, smoky BBQ seasoning blend. Toss this spice mix with the diced chicken breast, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Letting the chicken rest at room temperature for 10 to 20 minutes allows the flavors to soak in and keeps the meat juicy when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, letting them sear undisturbed for about 60 to 90 seconds so a beautiful crust forms. Flip the chicken to cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Fried Rice
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and spread it out evenly. Carefully stir in your chilled cooked rice, spreading it out so it heats evenly. Then, make a well in the center of the rice to prepare for the eggs. Crack both eggs directly into the well.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Allow the eggs to cook just until they start to set, then stir them gently to scramble and incorporate into the rice. This step adds amazing texture and richness, making every bite feel cozy and satisfying.
Step 5: Add the BBQ Sauce
Pour the Japanese BBQ sauce over the rice and eggs, stirring thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients. Let it cook for 30 to 60 seconds to allow the sauce to slightly caramelize on the bottom of the pan, creating those irresistible pockets of flavor that make this recipe truly special.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Turn off the heat, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and toss everything together until the chicken is fully integrated with the BBQ-infused fried rice. Serve immediately while it’s hot so you can enjoy the perfect combination of textures and mouthwatering tastes.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Top your BBQ Chicken Fried Rice with freshly chopped scallions or cilantro to add a pop of vibrant green and fresh herbaceous notes that contrast perfectly with the smoky richness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also adds a lovely nutty crunch that elevates the dish’s presentation and bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers. A crisp cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing can add a refreshing balance to the deep, savory flavors of the rice, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in individual bowls topped with a fried egg for added indulgence. For a fun twist, turn it into lettuce wraps by spooning it into crisp butter lettuce leaves, creating a handheld, fresh way to enjoy all those flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The fried rice stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the BBQ Chicken Fried Rice in portioned containers. It freezes well and can last up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure everything warms evenly without drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the rice’s fluffiness. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if needed, stir frequently during heating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well in the BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, adding extra fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind it may need a slightly longer cooking time or more moisture when reheating.
What can I substitute for Japanese BBQ sauce?
If Japanese BBQ sauce isn’t handy, try using a mix of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a little honey or brown sugar as a flavorful replacement. This combo mimics the sweet and tangy notes beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms and use a vegetarian-friendly BBQ sauce. The seasoning and cooking steps remain the same, delivering equally delicious results.
Is it better to use freshly cooked or leftover rice?
For the best texture, chilled leftover rice is ideal; it’s less sticky and fries up beautifully, preventing clumps. Freshly cooked rice that’s been cooled and dried out a bit can also work in a pinch.
How spicy is this BBQ Chicken Fried Rice?
This recipe has a mild smoky heat mostly from the smoked paprika and pepper, making it enjoyable for most palates. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer more kick.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe truly hits the spot when you want something that’s quick, comforting, and packed with bold flavors all in one pan. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and enjoy how effortlessly these simple ingredients come together to create a spectacular meal. Once you do, this recipe will definitely be one you come back to again and again!
Print
BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This BBQ Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a flavorful and quick one-pan meal featuring tender, smoky chicken seasoned with a spicy BBQ blend and stir-fried with eggs and chilled rice. Enhanced with Japanese BBQ sauce for a subtle sweetness and caramelized finish, this dish offers a delicious fusion of savory and sweet flavors perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, diced
- 1 Tablespoon (12g) Dark Brown Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons (48g) Olive Oil, divided
- 2 cups Cooked Rice, ideally chilled overnight
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 Tablespoons (38g) Japanese BBQ Sauce
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Mix the dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, dry mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a BBQ seasoning blend. Toss the diced chicken breast with this mixture until evenly coated. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10-20 minutes to enhance flavor and maintain moisture.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon (16g) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 60-90 seconds until browned on one side. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the fried rice: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons (32g) of olive oil to the skillet. Carefully add the chilled cooked rice, spreading it evenly across the pan to allow for proper frying. Create a well in the center of the rice.
- Scramble the eggs: Crack the eggs into the well in the rice. Stir the eggs gently until they begin to set, then break them apart and mix thoroughly into the rice until the eggs are fully cooked and evenly distributed.
- Add the BBQ sauce: Pour the Japanese BBQ sauce over the rice and stir well to combine all ingredients. Let the mixture cook for 30-60 seconds, allowing the sauce to slightly caramelize on the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor.
- Finish the dish: Turn off the heat and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to combine the rice, eggs, sauce, and chicken. Serve hot immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For the best texture, use rice that was cooked and chilled overnight to prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute Japanese BBQ sauce with teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the seasoning blend to your spice preference by adding cayenne or chili powder if desired.
- Leftover rice and chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough when cooking chicken and rice for proper searing and to avoid steaming.
