If you are looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed dinner, you can’t go wrong with this Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe. It brings the perfect combination of tender chicken, fragrant rice grains, vibrant veggies, and rich savory notes together in one skillet. What makes this dish so special is how effortlessly it combines simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that feels both nostalgic and fresh—ideal for busy evenings when you want a home-cooked dinner without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to creating that classic fried rice experience. Each one plays a distinct role, from providing texture to elevating flavor, making the whole dish come alive in your mouth.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Using leftover or rotisserie chicken adds convenience and a rich, savory protein base that absorbs the sauce wonderfully.
- Cold cooked rice (3 cups): Day-old long grain or jasmine rice is a must for the perfect fried rice texture—it’s less sticky and fries up beautifully.
- Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup): These add a pop of color and a subtly sweet crunch, no need to thaw before tossing in the pan.
- Large eggs (2): Soft scrambled eggs bring a silky softness and boost the overall heartiness of the dish.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): This is what gives the fried rice its salty, umami backbone; adjust to your taste preference.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Just a splash provides that irresistible nutty aroma and flavor, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Freshly minced garlic (2 cloves): Garlic adds a punch of aroma and depth that ties all the ingredients together.
- Green onions (2 tablespoons): These are an optional garnish but bring a fresh, herbaceous note and a bit of crunch on top.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for stir-frying without adding heavy flavors—just enough to get everything sizzling.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to elevate and balance all the flavors in the dish.
How to Make Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you heat the pan, make sure your chicken is diced or shredded into bite-sized pieces, the rice is cold and loose, and the garlic is finely minced. Having everything ready to go means you’ll stir-fry efficiently and keep the rice’s texture perfect.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat a little vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Lightly scramble the two eggs until they’re just set but still soft. Remove them from the pan and set aside—these will add a creamy texture when mixed back in later.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Veggies
Add the remaining vegetable oil to the hot pan, then toss in the garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Next, add the frozen peas and carrots directly to the pan. Cooking them in the hot oil will thaw them quickly while preserving their crunch and color.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Rice
Toss the diced chicken in with the vegetables and warm through for a minute. Then add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps as you stir. This step is crucial for getting evenly heated, well-seared rice that won’t turn mushy.
Step 5: Season It All
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir, taste, and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. Keep tossing the rice so the seasoning coats every grain and the skillet develops those sought-after slightly crispy bits of rice.
Step 6: Add Eggs and Finish
Return the soft scrambled eggs to the pan, folding them gently through the rice and chicken. This blends the flavors and adds richness. Finally, toss in the green onions if using. Give everything one last quick stir and remove from heat.
How to Serve Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh green onions always brightens this dish, adding contrast in both color and flavor. For a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili sauce can kick it up a notch without overwhelming the comforting balance.
Side Dishes
This chicken fried rice stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings complement the dish well without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner or casual gathering, serve your chicken fried rice in a hollowed-out bell pepper or even an edible pineapple boat. Not only does it look impressive, but it also adds a sweet hint from the fruit that pairs delightfully with the savory rice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a convenient grab-and-go lunch or quick dinner for later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for even longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. The combination of rice, chicken, and vegetables freezes well and can last up to 1 month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating
Reheat your fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or broth helps to keep the rice moist and prevents it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through and piping hot to enjoy every last bit of flavor and comfort.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
While long grain or jasmine rice is preferred for its texture, you can use any rice you have, just make sure it is cooked and cooled beforehand. Day-old rice works best to avoid clumping and to get that perfect fried texture.
Is it okay to use fresh chicken instead of leftover?
Absolutely! If using fresh chicken, cook it first (grilled, baked, or sautéed) and let it cool before adding. This will ensure your fried rice turns out just as flavorful and moist.
What can I substitute for frozen peas and carrots?
Feel free to mix in any veggies you like such as bell peppers, corn, or snap peas. Just keep in mind some may require pre-cooking, unlike the frozen peas and carrots that cook quickly in the skillet.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and eggs, and increase the veggies and tofu or tempeh for protein. Use a plant-based soy sauce and oils, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free version of this comforting classic.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add minced fresh chilies while stir-frying the garlic, or finish with a drizzle of chili garlic sauce or sriracha. Adjust to taste, and you’ll have a spicy twist on this otherwise mild and comforting dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about this Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe—it’s like a warm hug in meal form. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, looking for a quick dinner fix, or simply craving that classic fried rice taste, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal effort. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of your new favorite go-to dinners!
Print
Delicious Chicken Fried Rice: Easy Weeknight Comfort Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Delicious Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick and easy weeknight comfort meal, perfect for using leftover chicken and day-old rice. Packed with savory flavors from garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, this dish combines tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and fluffy scrambled eggs for a satisfying and flavorful stir-fry that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded, preferably leftover or rotisserie)
- 2 large eggs (soft scrambled)
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw before using)
- 2 cloves garlic (freshly minced)
- 2 tablespoons green onions (optional garnish)
Rice and Oils
- 3 cups cold cooked rice (long grain or jasmine, day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (use sparingly for flavor)
Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust based on taste)
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat with a small amount of vegetable oil. Pour in the eggs and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they form soft scrambled curds. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables and Chicken: Add the frozen peas and carrots directly to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through. Then add the cooked chicken pieces and stir-fry for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through. Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil evenly over the rice. Mix thoroughly to coat the rice and ingredients in the sauce.
- Combine Eggs and Final Seasoning: Return the soft scrambled eggs to the skillet and gently fold them into the rice mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the fried rice with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish. Serve hot immediately as a delicious main dish.
Notes
- Day-old rice is preferred as fresh rice can be too moist and sticky for fried rice.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for convenience.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity based on your sodium preference and taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit chicken and add tofu or extra vegetables.
- Ensure to cook the eggs softly to avoid overcooking and keep the dish moist.
- Sesame oil is potent; use sparingly to enhance flavor without overpowering.
