Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. This dish brings together seasoned rice, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe will please the whole family. Plus, it’s a fantastic homemade alternative to takeout!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh garlic elevates the taste to restaurant quality.
- Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your family’s preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, this recipe offers a balanced meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.
- Budget-Friendly: Using leftover rice and simple ingredients makes this dish economical without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pan or wok
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pan or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying ingredients evenly.
- Medium-sized mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken and mixing sauces without mess.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients without damaging them during cooking.
Ingredients
Protein and Rice
- 4 ½ cups cooked jasmine rice (cold day-old)
- ½ lb skinless boneless chicken thighs (thinly sliced)
Vegetables
- 1.5 cups frozen peas and carrots (or frozen vegetable mix)
- 1 small shallot (or 1/4 onion, finely diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Eggs and Oils
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- 4 teaspoon vegetable oil (or any neutral tasting oil)
- 2 tablespoon regular soy sauce (or light soy sauce)
- ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoon sesame oil
Marinade and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon regular soy sauce (or light soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine (or dry sherry / dry white wine / chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (a.k.a. chicken stock powder)
- ⅛ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
How to Make Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium-sized bowl, marinate the sliced chicken thighs with the marinade ingredients. Set aside for 5–10 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Keep this mixture handy as you’ll use it later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the marinated chicken until fully cooked, then remove from the pan.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables
Add another teaspoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Sauté minced garlic and diced shallots for about 10 seconds. Toss in the peas and carrots, frying them briefly before pushing everything to one side of the pan.
Step 5: Scramble Eggs
In the empty space of the pan, pour in beaten eggs. Let them sit for about 20 seconds before scrambling them into bite-sized pieces. Mix everything together.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add in the cooked rice along with fried chicken. Toss all ingredients until well incorporated.
Step 7: Add Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce around the rice or along the edges of the pan. Allow it to toast for about 5 seconds before tossing everything together until all rice grains are evenly coated and brown. Enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice!
How to Serve Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
This quick & easy chicken fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it hot and fresh straight from the pan for the best flavor experience.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for an extra kick.
With Fresh Garnishes
- Top with sliced green onions for added freshness and color.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Accompanied by Protein
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
- Consider pairing with tofu for a vegetarian option that complements the rice well.
Complementing Salads
- Offer a light cucumber salad to refresh the palate.
- A simple Asian slaw can add crunch and balance to the meal.
In Wraps
- Use lettuce leaves as wraps filled with chicken fried rice for a fun, interactive meal.
- Try using a tortilla for a fusion-style wrap with additional veggies.
How to Perfect Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
To ensure your quick & easy chicken fried rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Cold Rice: Cold, day-old jasmine rice works best as it prevents clumping and mushiness during cooking.
- High Heat Cooking: Always cook on high heat to give your fried rice that signature smoky flavor known as wok hei.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making larger portions, cook in batches to maintain high heat and achieve perfect texture.
- Prep Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. This prevents overcooking any component while prepping others.
Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Quick & easy chicken fried rice pairs well with several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat offer a crunchy contrast to the soft rice.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or vegetables provide a light and refreshing side.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed in garlic adds color and nutrients.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the Asian theme and provides comforting flavors.
- Asian Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad dressed in sesame oil offers great texture and flavor balance.
- Kimchi: This spicy fermented cabbage dish adds zing and probiotics to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to encounter a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Use cold, day-old jasmine rice for the best texture.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the pan’s temperature. Cook in batches if needed to ensure everything fries evenly.
- Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let it soak up the sauce for that extra taste.
- Not using high heat: Cooking on low heat will result in steamed rice instead of fried rice. Make sure your pan is hot enough for a nice char.
- Neglecting seasoning: If you don’t season well, your dish may lack flavor. Be generous with soy sauce and other seasonings—taste as you go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add rice and stir-fry until warmed up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! You can customize your fried rice with any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or broccoli.
How do I make Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice gluten-free?
Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Skinless boneless chicken thighs work best due to their tenderness. However, you can also use chicken breast if preferred.
Can I add more protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to include shrimp, tofu, or even beef for added protein options in your Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile! It’s perfect as a main dish or side and allows for endless customization based on what you have on hand. Try it out today and enjoy this homemade delight that beats takeout!
Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and satisfying meal without the hassle. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned jasmine rice. It’s versatile enough to serve as a delightful main course or a tasty side dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a healthier homemade alternative to takeout, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old)
- ½ lb skinless boneless chicken thighs (sliced)
- 1.5 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- Soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced chicken with soy sauce, cooking wine, cornstarch, chicken bouillon powder, and white pepper for 5–10 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauces and sesame oil in a small bowl.
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the marinated chicken until done; then remove it from the pan.
- Sauté minced garlic and shallots in the same pan, add peas and carrots, then push to one side.
- Scramble eggs in the empty space of the pan until cooked through.
- Add cold rice and chicken back into the pan, mixing well.
- Pour the sauce around the rice and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
