There is something incredibly satisfying about a well-made Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. This classic dish brings together tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked day-old rice, bright vegetables, and mouthwatering sauces for a flavor-packed meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. Whether you are craving a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a homemade takeout favorite, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and bold taste. With its fragrant sesame oil, savory soy and oyster sauces, and vibrant green onions, every bite bursts with that unmistakable umami charm that makes fried rice such a beloved dish worldwide.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is delightfully straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and taste. From tender chicken and fluffy day-old rice to fresh aromatics and colorful vegetables, these common yet essential items combine harmoniously.
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold): Using day-old rice helps prevent mushiness and keeps the grains wonderfully separate in the final dish.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the savory sauces beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a rich, salty depth fundamental to fried rice’s signature flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings subtle sweetness and an extra savory layer that makes this dish truly special.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Delivers a fragrant, nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Ensures perfect searing and stir-frying without sticking.
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten): Adds fluffy texture and additional protein to balance the meal.
- 1 small onion (diced): Offers a mild natural sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Provides vibrant color, subtle sweetness, and nutritional boost.
- 3 green onions (sliced): A fresh, crisp finish that brightens every bite.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of savory warmth that complements the chicken wonderfully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle spicy zest to round out the flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the other ingredients perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook it for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This simple step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that remains tender in the final dish.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Next, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them gently, cooking just until they are set but still soft. Remove the eggs and set them aside with the chicken. These fluffy eggs add a wonderful texture contrast to the fried rice and enrich every mouthful.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
With the remaining tablespoon of oil, sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and ground ginger for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Then stir in the thawed peas and carrots, cooking everything until tender and vibrant. This step builds the aromatic base and adds sweet vegetable notes that bring fresh color and crunch to your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice
Add the cold day-old rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Cook the rice for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring continuously to heat it through and combine everything evenly. Using cold rice prevents the dish from becoming mushy, ensuring each grain remains distinct and lightly toasted.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients and Add Sauces
Return the chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well to coat every element evenly. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly into your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. The sauces bring that quintessential savory-sweet balance that makes fried rice so irresistibly good.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually appealing and flavorful finish, sprinkle the Chicken Fried Rice with sliced green onions right before serving. This simple garnish adds a fresh, mild sharpness as well as a pop of vibrant green that makes the dish extra inviting on the plate.
Side Dishes
This fried rice pairs wonderfully with light sides like steamed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad to balance the meal’s richness. You can also serve it alongside spring rolls or a hot and sour soup for a delicious full-flavored Asian-inspired dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Chicken Fried Rice Recipe inside a hollowed-out bell pepper or pineapple bowl for a festive touch. Alternatively, pack the rice into small individual mounds using a ramekin for a restaurant-style presentation. These ideas elevate a humble dish into an eye-catching centerpiece perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Fried Rice keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool the rice completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover fried rice by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While fresh rice can work in a pinch, day-old rice is best for this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe because it has had time to dry out slightly, which prevents clumping and sogginess during stir-frying.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce, soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar, or vegetarian mushroom sauce as alternatives to maintain a similar depth of flavor.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply swap the chicken for tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas. Also, use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce alone to keep the flavors rich and balanced.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, corn, or bean sprouts. Just be sure to adjust cooking times so everything cooks evenly.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add chili paste, sriracha, or fresh chopped chilies while stir-frying for a spicy kick that elevates the dish’s flavor and warms you up.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and filled with flavors that bring everyone to the table with eager smiles. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or add your own twist, I encourage you to dive in and create a batch that suits your tastes perfectly. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Chinese-American
Description
A quick and flavorful homemade chicken fried rice recipe that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and seasoned rice stir-fried to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a takeout-style meal at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and ground ginger for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the thawed peas and carrots, cooking until tender.
- Cook the Rice: Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir-fry the rice for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through and evenly mixed with the vegetables.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve the fried rice hot.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu to vary the protein.
- For a spicy kick, add chili paste or sriracha during the stir-frying step.
