Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice is your ticket to a delicious homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Perfect for using up leftover rice and chicken, this dish comes together in no time and packs a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses day-old rice for the perfect texture, preventing mushy fried rice.
- Combines soy sauce and sesame oil for an authentic, umami-packed flavor.
- Quick cooking time means dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This includes shredding the chicken, beating the eggs, and thawing the peas and carrots if they’re frozen. Having everything at hand will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them set for a few seconds before scrambling. Cook until they’re just set but still soft, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Veggies
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the chicken and veggies, stirring frequently until everything is heated through and the veggies are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Now, add the day-old rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spoon and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Add the scrambled eggs back in, along with the green onions. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
For the best fried rice, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and lead to a mushy texture. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for an hour before using. Another tip is to cook on high heat to get that signature smoky flavor, but keep stirring to prevent burning. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets nicely browned.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha for heat.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Stir in diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works great in this recipe, just keep in mind it might have a chewier texture and take a bit longer to cook through. Make sure it’s cooled before using to avoid mushy fried rice.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative. There are many brands available that offer the same great taste without the gluten.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Summary
This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a takeout fakeout that’s sure to impress.
