This quick and easy chicken fried rice is a tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days. With fluffy rice, tender chicken, and colorful veggies, you can’t go wrong!
I love whipping this up in just 20 minutes! It’s a great way to use leftovers, and the best part? You can toss in whatever veggies you have. Who doesn’t love a clean fridge dinner? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice is best because it’s drier and prevents clumping. If you don’t have any, fresh rice can work, just cool it down quickly by spreading it out.
Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or a mix of your favorite veggies.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil works here—like canola or grapeseed oil. Olive oil can be used too, but it has a stronger flavor. For a different twist, try sesame oil for stir-frying.
Green Peas and Carrots: Fresh is great, but frozen peas work just as well. Diced bell pepper or corn can also be delicious additions!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Eggs in Fried Rice?
Cooking the eggs correctly is all about timing! To avoid overcooking, scramble them in a cleared part of the pan. Adding the eggs after sautéing the onions and garlic gives them a perfect texture.
- Cook the eggs until just set to keep them fluffy.
- Stir them gently into the rice mixture so they stay in pieces rather than a solid mass.
Why Should You Use Day-Old Rice?
Day-old rice has less moisture, which helps keep the fried rice from getting mushy. If you’re in a pinch with fresh rice, let it cool completely before using to achieve a similar texture.
Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken fried rice takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a speedy lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Give it a moment to heat up.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the diced onions and the white parts of the green onions to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onions are fragrant and translucent.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the onion-garlic mixture to the side of the pan, then pour the beaten eggs into the cleared area. Scramble the eggs until they’re cooked through and slightly firm.
5. Incorporate Chicken and Veggies:
Add the diced chicken, carrots, and peas to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the chicken is warmed through.
6. Add the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the cooked rice! Break up any clumps and mix it thoroughly with the chicken, veggies, and eggs. Make sure everything is well combined.
7. Season the Rice:
Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle in the sesame oil, if using. Mix well to evenly coat the rice and all the ingredients with flavor.
8. Final Touches:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to let all the flavors come together and heat through.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and garnish your fried rice with the green parts of the green onions. Serve hot and enjoy this quick and tasty meal!
Feel free to get creative! You can add in other veggies or proteins based on what you have available. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Can I Use Leftover Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s less sticky and helps prevent a soggy texture. If you’re using fresh rice, let it cool completely before adding it to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to use shrimp, beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also bulk it up with more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Without Soy Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a soy-free option, you can use coconut aminos or a homemade sauce made from broth and spices. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, as these alternatives may have a different saltiness.
