Let’s dive into a dish that’s not just a meal but a celebration of flavors. This Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice recipe is your ticket to a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- The high heat of the Blackstone griddle ensures your rice gets that perfect, slightly crispy texture.
- Using day-old rice prevents your fried rice from turning mushy, giving it the ideal texture.
- The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- It’s a versatile dish that you can customize based on what you have in your fridge.
- Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, day-old white rice
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into small pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Blackstone griddle or large frying pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces, beat the eggs, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the griddle and set aside.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same griddle, add a little more oil if needed, and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them set for a few seconds before scrambling them with your spatula. Once cooked, remove them from the griddle and set aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Fry the Rice
Add the remaining oil to the griddle and spread the day-old rice evenly across the surface. Let it cook for a couple of minutes without stirring to allow some of the rice to get crispy. Then, stir in the peas and carrots, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken and eggs to the griddle with the rice. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring everything together until well combined and heated through. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, use rice that’s been refrigerated overnight. This helps to dry it out slightly, preventing your fried rice from becoming soggy. If you’re in a pinch, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for an hour. Also, don’t overcrowd the griddle; cooking in batches if necessary ensures everything cooks evenly. Lastly, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or beef for a different protein option.
- Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist.
- Incorporate different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini based on your preferences.
- For a spicier version, add some chili flakes or sriracha sauce.
- Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
While you can use freshly cooked rice, it’s more likely to turn out mushy. Day-old rice has less moisture, which helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture. If you must use fresh rice, try to spread it out on a tray to cool and dry for a bit before using.
What if I don’t have a Blackstone griddle?
No worries! A large frying pan or wok will work just fine. The key is to use high heat and not overcrowd the pan to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets that slight crispiness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and eggs, and add more vegetables or tofu for protein. You can also use a vegetarian oyster sauce or more soy sauce for flavor.
Summary
This Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s sure to become a family favorite.