Maria
Chicken Fried Rice is a staple in many households for its simplicity, speed, and ability to transform leftovers into a completely new and delicious meal. This 30-minute recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether using leftover roast or rotisserie chicken and day-old rice, this dish is a tasty way to repurpose food and reduce waste.
Why Chicken Fried Rice is a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal.
- Versatile: Great for using leftovers like roast chicken and cooked rice.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include different proteins or vegetables.
- Flavorful: A delicious blend of savory, umami flavors with a hint of sesame.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Fried Rice
- Use Cold Rice: For the best texture, use rice that’s been cooked and chilled.
- High Heat Cooking: Cook quickly on high heat to avoid mushy rice and to add a slight crispiness.
- Ingredient Prep: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before starting, as the cooking process is fast.
- Order of Cooking: Add ingredients in stages to ensure everything cooks properly without steaming.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this versatile dish as a main course or as a side. It pairs wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries or dumplings.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the rice moist.
FAQs for Chicken Fried Rice
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Absolutely! Brown rice can be a healthier alternative, just ensure it’s cooked and chilled before using.
- What other proteins can I use? Besides chicken, you can use ham, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free Tamari soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or any other veggies you like.
- Is it okay to cook the chicken from raw? Yes, as long as it’s fully cooked to a safe internal temperature before adding other ingredients.
- Can I freeze Chicken Fried Rice? Fried rice can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a bit of water to refresh the rice.
In conclusion, Chicken Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a quick, customizable, and delicious solution for busy evenings or when you need to clean out the fridge. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and flavor, making it a beloved choice for many. So, grab your skillet or wok and get ready to enjoy this delightful and easy fried rice!
Chicken Fried Rice
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Thighs Boneless, Skinless, Trimmed
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 5 cups Chilled Cooked White Rice
- 4 large Eggs
- 3 Tbsp Extra Light Olive Oil or High Heat Cooking Oil
- 1/4 cup Green Onion Chopped
- 12 oz Frozen Peas and Carrots Fully Thawed
- 1 Canned corn Optional
- 1 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
Instructions
Prep Ingredients:
- Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and cut into bite-size pieces.
- Season chicken with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Beat 4 eggs in a separate bowl.
Cook Chicken:
- Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium/high heat.
- Add seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
Cook Scrambled Eggs:
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Add 1 Tbsp oil to the skillet.
- Pour in beaten eggs and stir/scramble for about a minute until cooked. Transfer to the plate with chicken.
Prepare Rice:
- Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
- Add another 1 Tbsp oil to the skillet.
- Spread 5 cups of rice evenly over the pan.
- Cook without disturbing for 1-2 minutes, then stir and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until rice sizzles.
Add Seasonings:
- Drizzle 2 Tbsp soy sauce and 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil over the rice. Stir well.
Add Vegetables and Chicken:
- Add fully thawed vegetables (and corn if used) and mix well.
- Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back to the pan.
- Add 1/4 cup green onions and mix well.
Finish Cooking:
- Continue cooking until vegetables and rice are hot and rice sizzles, stirring frequently.
Adjust Seasoning:
- Add more soy sauce and sesame oil to taste.
Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your delicious chicken fried rice!
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