Are you looking for a quick, tasty dinner idea? I’ve got just the thing! This Easy Chicken Fried Rice is packed with flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients like chicken, veggies, and day-old rice, you can whip up a meal that your whole family will love. Let’s dive into this hassle-free recipe that brings the taste of takeout right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
Seasoning and Oils
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
When I make Easy Chicken Fried Rice, I love using day-old jasmine rice. It gives the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too soft. You want your rice to be clump-free. This helps it fry well.
Next, I use cooked chicken breast. You can also use leftover chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Mixed veggies bring color and nutrients. Peas, carrots, and corn are my go-to.
For seasoning, soy sauce is key. I prefer low sodium. Sesame oil gives it a nutty taste. Olive oil helps cook everything evenly. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Don’t forget the eggs! They add protein and make the dish more filling. Green onions add a fresh crunch, while garlic offers a savory kick. This mix creates a balanced meal that you can enjoy any day.It’s simple, quick, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
First, we need to prepare the rice. If you have leftover rice, make sure it’s cold and clump-free. This helps it fry better. If you are using fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet. Let it cool for about 15 minutes. This helps to dry it out a bit.
Cooking Process
Now, let’s cook the eggs. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until they are just set. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
Next, we’ll sauté the garlic. In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of sesame oil. Increase the heat to high. Add two cloves of minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not burnt.
Then, add the diced chicken and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes. This heats the chicken and makes the veggies tender.
Final Steps
Now it’s time to stir in the rice. Add the cold rice to the pan. Break up any clumps as you mix it in. Let the rice fry for another 3 to 4 minutes. This makes the rice slightly crispy.
To add flavor, drizzle three tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well, so all the flavors combine.
Finally, fold in the scrambled eggs and two thinly sliced green onions. Give it one last stir to blend everything evenly. You are now ready to serve your delicious chicken fried rice!
Tips & Tricks
Rice Preparation Tips
Using day-old rice is best for fried rice. It has less moisture, so it stays firm. If you cook fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet to cool. This helps it dry out.
To prevent clumping, use cold rice. If the rice is clumpy, gently break it apart with your hands. This step is key for even cooking.
Cooking Techniques
For the best fried rice, heat your skillet or wok over high heat. A hot pan helps cook the rice quickly and evenly.
To get crispy rice, let it fry without stirring too much. After adding the rice, press it down and let it sit for a minute. This lets it brown nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
You can customize the seasoning to fit your taste. Try adding more soy sauce, garlic, or even ginger.
Feel free to add more protein or veggies. Shrimp, tofu, or bell peppers work great. Each addition brings its own flavor and nutrition.
Variations
Different Proteins
You can swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu. Each choice adds a unique taste. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a light flavor. Beef gives a hearty touch, while tofu makes it plant-based. Just remember to adjust your cooking time. Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes, beef until browned, and tofu until golden.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian dish, leave out the chicken. You can use extra vegetables instead. Try bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for color and crunch. This change keeps the dish filling and nutritious. You can also add tofu for protein. This way, you keep the flavors rich and exciting.
Flavor Profiles
You can change the flavor with spices and sauces. Adding sriracha gives a nice kick. Oyster sauce adds some depth and sweetness. A splash of sesame oil boosts the aroma. Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect mix. Each addition can take your chicken fried rice to a new level.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken fried rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It will stay good for about three to four days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you track how long it has been stored.
Reheating Tips
Reheating chicken fried rice can be tricky. To keep it tasty, use a skillet or wok. Heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir often until it warms through. This method helps regain some texture. You can also use a microwave. Add a splash of water to a bowl, cover, and heat for one to two minutes. Stir halfway for even heating.
Freezing for Future Meals
Freezing chicken fried rice is easy. First, let the rice cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label each bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal. Enjoy this easy chicken fried rice anytime!
FAQs
What type of rice is best for chicken fried rice?
I recommend using jasmine rice. It has a nice fragrance and a great texture. You can also use basmati or long-grain rice. These types hold up well when fried. Day-old rice works best since it’s less sticky. Freshly cooked rice can clump together and make a mushy dish.
Can I make chicken fried rice without eggs?
Yes, you can! If you want to skip the eggs, try using tofu instead. You can pan-fry the tofu for a nice texture. If you prefer a vegan option, simply leave out the eggs. The dish will still taste great without them.
How long does chicken fried rice last in the fridge?
Chicken fried rice is good for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents odors from mixing. When reheating, ensure it’s hot all the way through.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save time and are just as good. They are picked and frozen at their peak freshness. Just add them to the pan while cooking. If using frozen, no need to thaw them first. Just toss them in and stir-fry until heated. This adds color and nutrients to your dish.
You can easily make a delicious chicken fried rice using simple ingredients. We explored the main components, seasoning, and cooking steps. Tips for preparing the rice and cooking techniques can help you achieve flavor. You have options for different proteins, vegetarian choices, and flavor profiles. Storing leftovers and reheating them right will keep your meals fresh.
Remember, this dish is about your taste. Enjoy experimenting with it!
