Welcome to our savory meals section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and easy recipe for Chicken Fried Rice. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and chicken, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook Rice: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 1/2 cups of uncooked white rice according to the package instructions to make about 3 cups cooked. Let it cool completely or use cold leftover rice for the best texture.
- Cook Chicken: If you don’t have leftover chicken, cook 2 chicken breasts and shred them. You can also use rotisserie chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat Oil: Heat the sesame oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Onions and Carrots: Add the diced onions and carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked. Mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables.
Step 4: Add Rice and Chicken
- Add Rice and Chicken: Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
- Season with Soy Sauce: Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce.
- Add Butter: Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted and mixed in. This adds extra flavor and richness to the dish.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the chicken fried rice hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cold Rice: Using cold or day-old rice is key to preventing the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- Chicken: You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quickly cook chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn to the mix.
- Soy Sauce: Adjust the amount of soy sauce to taste. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer.
Variations
Shrimp Fried Rice
Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp. Add the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Vegetarian Fried Rice
Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add tofu for protein.
Spicy Fried Rice
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce along with the soy sauce for a spicy kick.
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
Add 1 cup of pineapple chunks along with the chicken for a sweet and savory variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fried rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze chicken fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze chicken fried rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with chicken fried rice?
Chicken fried rice can be served as a main dish on its own or with a side of egg rolls, dumplings, or a simple salad.
How can I make the fried rice more flavorful?
Add a splash of soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, or a sprinkle of garlic powder or ginger to enhance the flavors.
This Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful dish with your loved ones!