Ah, Chicken Fried Rice! There’s something so comforting and downright joyful about a steaming plate of this delicious dish. It reminds me of lazy weekend evenings, when my friends and I would gather around my tiny kitchen table, sharing stories and weaving laughter between bites. I’ve always loved how versatile fried rice can be; you can throw in whatever you have on hand, but nothing beats the classic restaurant-style version.
This recipe is like giving your taste buds the luxury of dining out right in the comfort of your own home. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! I love using leftover rice from previous meals—it makes the perfect base and saves time. So let’s dive in and learn how to create that mouthwatering stir-fried goodness!
What’s in Chicken Fried Rice?
Cooked Rice: Using day-old rice is ideal, as it’s drier and helps achieve that perfect fry. If you don’t have any leftover, just make a fresh pot and allow it to cool down first.
Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, diced chicken breast adds a great source of protein to the dish. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut!
Vegetables: I love a colorful mix of peas and carrots for sweetness and crunch. You can add bell peppers, green onions, or any veggies you have on hand.
Eggs: Scrambled eggs bring richness and help bind everything together. Plus, they just make everything more delicious!
Soy Sauce: This salty, umami-packed condiment is vital for flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle of toasted sesame oil elevates the flavor. It’s fragrant and gives that restaurant-style finish.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and ginger lend a zesty zest and depth to your fried rice. Just a small amount makes a huge difference!
Is Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This Chicken Fried Rice recipe brings some balance to your meal.
Chicken Breast: Packed with lean protein, it helps keep you full and satisfied. It’s great for muscle growth and weight management.
Vegetables: With peas and carrots included, you’re getting a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber, which is super beneficial for digestion.
However, do keep in mind the portion of rice and soy sauce. Too much can spike your carb intake, so moderation is key. You can always reduce the soy sauce or opt for a low-sodium version for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced chicken breast
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
– 2 large eggs
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if desired)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves 4*
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice?
1. Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil—just enough to coat the pan.
2. Toss in the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil, then throw in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
4. Push the garlic and ginger to the side and scramble the eggs in the other half of the pan. Once they are cooked, stir everything together.
5. Next, add the cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break apart any clumps and mix everything well.
6. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring continually to coat the rice evenly.
7. Finally, fold in the cooked chicken and peas and carrots mix. Give everything a good toss until heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, and voilà! Your Chicken Fried Rice is ready to be devoured.
Delicious Tips for Chicken Fried Rice
– Don’t be shy with the veggies! You can add any other leftovers in your fridge. Broccoli, chopped bell peppers, or snap peas work amazingly well.
– For a vegan version, swap the chicken for tofu or edamame and omit the eggs.
– Feel free to adjust the seasonings. If you’re like me and love a bit of heat, a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
I hope you’re as excited as I am to give this recipe a try! There’s nothing quite like chicken fried rice to turn your day around. It’s quick, satisfying, and kind of like a hug in a bowl. Let me know how it turns out and feel free to share your own twist on it! Happy cooking, my friends!
