Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious Asian-inspired dish that you can easily make at home, better than takeout. It’s packed with flavor and allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier option.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Chicken Fried Rice at home allows you to customize it to your liking while reducing sodium compared to restaurant versions. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish alongside other Asian favorites like pot stickers and crab rangoon.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thin bite-size pieces
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 3/4 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cups long grain white rice, cooked and chilled
• 3-5 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer until browned on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Add more oil if needed. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
2. Heat another tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and peas. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, add garlic, and cook for 1 minute while stirring. Transfer vegetables to the plate with the chicken and cover to keep warm.
3. Whisk eggs and melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter in the skillet over low heat. Add eggs and cook until just set. Remove eggs from skillet and add to the plate with the chicken and vegetables. Cover to keep warm.
4. Melt remaining butter over medium heat in the skillet. Add rice and drizzle with soy sauce. Increase heat to medium-high and fry rice until lightly browned, stirring occasionally to allow browning.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the rice, sprinkle with green onions, and stir to combine. Return chicken, vegetables, and eggs to the skillet and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

Serve Chicken Fried Rice hot, either as a main dish or alongside your favorite Asian sides. It pairs well with soy sauce or sriracha on the side for added flavor.

How to Store Chicken Fried Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through before serving.

Tips to Make Chicken Fried Rice

• Use chilled rice for best results, as it fries up better and absorbs flavors well.
• Customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust soy sauce amount to taste, starting with less and adding more as needed.

Variation

For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp or add diced ham for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe? Yes, using chilled leftover rice works best as it fries up better and is less sticky.

2. How can I reduce sodium in this recipe further? Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount used, and avoid adding extra salt during cooking.

3. Can I make Chicken Fried Rice without eggs? Yes, you can omit the eggs if desired, or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version.

Enjoy making this flavorful Chicken Fried Rice at home, and impress your family with a delicious meal straight from your kitchen!