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If you’ve ever craved a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly with ingredients you probably already have on hand, this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant veggies, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that feels both special and familiar, proving that homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the chicken for hearty protein, the chilled rice for perfect texture, and the combination of sauces and aromatics for rich layers of flavor.
- 2 cups cooked and chilled long grain white rice: Using day-old rice is key to keeping your fried rice fluffy and not soggy.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced: Small pieces cook quickly and evenly, giving you juicy bites in every forkful.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: A neutral oil that gets everything sizzling without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Added protein and a lovely silkiness that ties the dish together.
- 3/4 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Bright colors and a subtle sweetness for an inviting, balanced texture.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Freshness and a little bit of bite that wakes up the entire dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The heart of flavor that infuses everything with warmth and depth.
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone that adds umami without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: A touch of sweetness and richness that makes this recipe truly sing.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Just a drizzle to introduce that toasty, nutty aroma we all crave in fried rice.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balanced seasoning to enhance the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle heat that keeps things interesting but not spicy.
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the diced chicken, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and showing a bit of a golden sear for extra flavor. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside while you start the other components.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In the same hot pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble until just set—creamy, soft curds are perfect here. Push the eggs to one side of the pan to make room for the next step without losing any of their delicate texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Garlic
Add the minced garlic and thawed peas and carrots to the open side of the pan. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies are tender and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the base flavors and adds vibrant color and sweetness to your fried rice.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Stir Everything Together
Stir in your chilled rice, breaking up any clumps as you mix. Cook for around 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice to warm through and start to get that slightly crisp texture we love in fried rice dishes. This also helps everything blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Bring It All Together with Sauces and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Give everything a good stir to make sure every grain of rice and piece of chicken is coated with that fantastic sauce mixture. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully combine.
Step 6: Add Fresh Green Onions and Serve
Just before serving, stir in the sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast. Your Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed straight from the pan—warm, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few extra chopped green onions or some toasted sesame seeds on top adds a pretty pop of color and subtle crunch, making your plate look as good as it tastes. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes kicks up the flavor with a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This chicken fried rice shines as a standalone meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with light sides such as a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. These fresh sides add brightness and balance to the rich, savory notes in the rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your chicken fried rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or lettuce cups for an elegant and interactive experience. Alternatively, plate it with a side of fried egg on top or scatter chopped peanuts and cilantro for a twist on traditional Asian-inspired flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or dinner option that heats up beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to keep it longer. Portion the fried rice in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It freezes well for up to 2 months and can be defrosted in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, toss the rice in a hot skillet with a little splash of water or oil to bring back its fluffy texture and warmth. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring occasionally helps prevent cold spots and keeps the dish tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook initially. Make sure to use fully cooked and chilled brown rice to get the best fried rice texture.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce on hand?
If oyster sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a little extra soy sauce combined with a pinch of sugar to keep that sweet-savory profile intact.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with firm tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or additional soy sauce to maintain depth of flavor.
Why is day-old rice recommended for fried rice?
Day-old rice dries out in the fridge, which prevents it from getting mushy when fried. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky, making it difficult to achieve that perfect texture.
How can I add more spice to this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?
For some heat, add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes during the final cooking step or as a garnish. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for later, this recipe has got you covered. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
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Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe brings the beloved takeout classic to your home kitchen with simple ingredients and quick preparation. Featuring tender diced chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly scrambled eggs all combined with savory soy and oyster sauces, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying main course. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it uses day-old rice for the perfect texture and allows you to customize with heat if desired.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 2 cups cooked and chilled long grain white rice
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into small pieces
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3/4 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Eggs and Oils
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasonings and Sauces
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Scramble the Eggs: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until just set. Push the eggs to one side of the pan.
- Cook Vegetables and Garlic: Add minced garlic, peas, and carrots to the empty side of the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
- Add Rice: Stir in the chilled rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through.
- Combine Chicken and Sauces: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the rice and vegetables. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir in the sliced green onions and serve immediately for a hot and flavorful fried rice.
Notes
- Day-old rice works best because it is drier and prevents soggy fried rice.
- You can substitute brown rice for a whole grain option for added fiber and nutrients.
- Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat if you like a spicier dish.
