Let me tell you, easy chicken fried rice has saved my dinner many times! It’s one of those magical dishes that come together in no time and tastes absolutely fantastic. I remember the first time I made it—my friends were over, and I wanted to impress them with something homemade yet effortless. I whipped this up in under 30 minutes, and they couldn’t believe how delicious it was! It’s such a versatile dish, too. You can use leftover rice and throw in whatever veggies you have on hand. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked rice – Day-old rice works best for that perfect texture, but fresh will do in a pinch.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced – Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for a quick option.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables – I love peas, carrots, and corn, but feel free to choose your favorites!
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – This adds that savory umami flavor we all crave.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – A little drizzle gives it that authentic Asian touch.
- 2 eggs, beaten – These add richness and a lovely texture.
- 3 green onions, chopped – For that fresh crunch and a pop of color!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Just season to your liking!
How to Prepare Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and it’s super simple. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat the sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. You want it hot enough to cook everything quickly but not smoking.
- Next, toss in your mixed vegetables. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re tender and colorful. It’s all about that fresh crunch!
- Now, add the diced chicken and cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything together for a couple of minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
- Pour in the soy sauce, and mix it all up so every grain of rice is coated with that savory goodness.
- Make a little well in the center of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them sit for a few seconds before scrambling them until fully cooked.
- Finally, stir in the chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve it hot, and enjoy your masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy chicken fried rice is a total game changer! Here’s why it’s a go-to in my kitchen:
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Flavorful taste: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh veggies creates a deliciously savory dish.
- Versatile: Use whatever veggies you have on hand or switch up the protein; it’s endlessly customizable!
- Kid-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish, making it a family favorite.
- Leftover hero: It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and chicken, reducing food waste!
Tips for Success
Making easy chicken fried rice is a breeze, but here are a few pro tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Use cold, day-old rice: This helps prevent mushiness. If you’re using fresh rice, let it cool and dry out a bit before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to keep everything crispy and well-cooked. You want that perfect stir-fry texture!
- Taste as you go: Adjust the soy sauce, salt, and pepper to your preference. It’s all about finding that balance!
- Prep ingredients beforehand: Having everything chopped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of easy chicken fried rice:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making easy chicken fried rice? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option, but make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before using.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
No worries! You can substitute it with vegetable or olive oil; just know it won’t give that authentic taste.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Just skip the chicken and add more veggies or tofu for protein. The soy sauce will still bring all the flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a pan or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I add other proteins?
Sure thing! Shrimp, beef, or even tofu work wonderfully in this easy chicken fried rice recipe. Just cook them through before adding the rice.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover easy chicken fried rice is super simple! Just place it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. You can either toss it in the microwave for a quick fix—just cover it to keep moisture in—or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. If using a pan, add a splash of water or a bit of oil to help revive that delicious texture. Stir until it’s heated through, and you’re good to go!
Serving Suggestions
Easy chicken fried rice is so delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more! I love serving it alongside some crispy spring rolls for that perfect crunch. You could also whip up a simple Asian-style salad with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing to add freshness to your plate. If you’re in the mood for something warm, hot and sour soup complements the flavors beautifully. And don’t forget to have some soy sauce or chili paste on the side for those who like an extra kick! Enjoy your meal!
Print
Easy Chicken Fried Rice: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy chicken fried rice is a quick and tasty dish that combines cooked rice, chicken, and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
- Add cooked chicken and rice, stirring to combine.
- Pour in soy sauce and mix well.
- Create a well in the center and add beaten eggs, scrambling until cooked.
- Stir in green onions, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for best results.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: easy chicken fried rice