Why You’ll Love Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is quick, customizable, and a perfect way to use up leftover rice or chicken. It delivers a hearty, balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbs in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing lunch option, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to double for meal prep or serve as a side with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
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Chicken breast or thighs, diced
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Eggs
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Soy sauce
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Sesame oil
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Garlic, minced
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Ginger, minced
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Onion, chopped
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Carrots, diced
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Green peas
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Green onions, chopped
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Vegetable oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Add the diced chicken and cook until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté garlic, ginger, and onions until fragrant.
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Add carrots and peas and stir-fry for a few minutes until vegetables are tender.
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Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and scramble the eggs on the other side until fully cooked.
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Add the cooked rice and return the chicken to the pan. Mix everything together.
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Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture. Stir well to combine and heat through.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
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Add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
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Make it spicy by adding chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
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For a lower-carb version, substitute cauliflower rice.
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Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until heated through.
You can also microwave it in a covered container, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Day-old, chilled jasmine or long-grain white rice works best because it’s less sticky and holds up better during stir-frying.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
Do I have to use sesame oil?
Sesame oil adds authentic flavor, but you can omit it or replace it with more vegetable oil if needed.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely, just omit the chicken and add more vegetables or use tofu as a substitute.
What’s the best pan to use?
A large wok or deep non-stick skillet is ideal for high-heat cooking and tossing the ingredients evenly.
Can I freeze chicken fried rice?
Yes, allow it to cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Why is my fried rice mushy?
Fried rice becomes mushy if the rice is too wet or freshly cooked. Use cold, day-old rice for best texture.
Can I add sauce like oyster sauce or hoisin?
Yes, for a richer flavor, add a small amount of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce along with the soy sauce.
How do I keep the rice from sticking to the pan?
Make sure your pan is hot before adding rice and use enough oil. Non-stick pans or well-seasoned woks also help.
Is it necessary to cook the eggs separately?
Cooking the eggs separately helps them stay fluffy and prevents them from disappearing into the rice. It’s a simple step that enhances the texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile, quick, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe delivers big flavor with little effort. Whether you’re repurposing leftovers or cooking from scratch, this is a go-to meal that never disappoints.
