Mmm, who doesn’t love a good plate of fried rice? This Japanese Chicken Fried Rice recipe is here to shake up your dinner routine with its umami-packed flavors and simple steps. Perfect for using up leftover rice, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Why This Recipe Works
- The secret is in the sauce – a blend of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of sesame oil gives this dish its authentic Japanese flavor.
- Using day-old rice ensures your fried rice isn’t mushy, achieving that perfect grain separation we all crave.
- Quick-cooking chicken breast adds lean protein, making this dish both satisfying and balanced.
- Vegetables like carrots and peas add color, crunch, and nutrients, making every bite interesting.
- It’s customizable! Don’t like peas? Swap them for bell peppers or skip them altogether.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old
- 1 chicken breast, diced into small pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
Equipment Needed
- Large wok or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and within arm’s reach. Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. Dice the carrots and slice the green onions. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This ensures your chicken stays juicy and doesn’t overcook when you add it back later.
Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, 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. Cook until they’re just set but still soft, then remove them from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the pan and toss in the diced carrots. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the peas and cook for another 2 minutes. The key here is to keep the vegetables crisp-tender for the best texture in your fried rice.
Combine Everything
Now, add the day-old rice to the pan with the vegetables. Break up any clumps with your spatula. Pour in the soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil, stirring well to coat every grain of rice. Add the cooked chicken and eggs back into the pan, mixing everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For the best Japanese Chicken Fried Rice, here are some pro tips: First, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will make your fried rice soggy. Second, high heat is your friend when stir-frying; it gives the rice that slightly charred, authentic flavor. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches if necessary ensures everything gets nicely browned instead of steamed.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add a tablespoon of oyster sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Throw in some diced pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
- Use brown rice instead of white for a whole grain version.
- Spice it up with a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
While you can use freshly cooked rice, it’s not ideal. Fresh rice is too moist and can lead to mushy fried rice. If you’re in a pinch, spread the rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes to dry out slightly before using.
What can I use instead of mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of 1 teaspoon sugar dissolved in 1 tablespoon of white wine or apple juice. This will give a similar sweetness and acidity to your dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.
Summary
This Japanese Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a great way to bring a taste of Japan to your kitchen.
