Name: Chicken Fried Rice: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 7 oz chicken breast; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 pinch salt; 1 tablespoon water; 3 cups cooked rice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup button mushrooms, diced; ½ cup red pepper, diced; ½ cup peas; 1 stalk scallions, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; ⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil, divided

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Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice for a meal you’ll crave again and again. This ultimate comfort food is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having a cozy night in, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a homemade version that rivals your favorite takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice

This chicken fried rice recipe is loved for many reasons. First, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you! Second, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Third, it’s a great way to use leftover rice, making it an economical option. Fourth, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Additionally, it’s packed with protein from the chicken, making it a fulfilling meal. Finally, it’s gluten-free if you choose the right soy sauce, catering to various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

Gather these items:

7 oz chicken breast
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon water
3 cups cooked rice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup button mushrooms, diced
½ cup red pepper, diced
½ cup peas
1 stalk scallions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil, divided

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into small bite-sized pieces and coat them with cornstarch, salt, and water; set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes; remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until fragrant, around 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetables: Add diced mushrooms, red pepper, and peas to the skillet; stir-fry until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate the Rice: Gently add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine, allowing it to cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Step 6: Combine Flavors: Return the chicken to the skillet, add the light and dark soy sauces, ground white pepper, and sesame oil, mixing thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Finish with Scallions: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped scallions before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice

Keep these in mind:

For the best texture, use day-old rice instead of freshly cooked rice.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the ingredients.
Use a high heat for quick cooking and to achieve a nice char on the chicken and vegetables.
For a spicy kick, add some chili paste or sriracha to the mix.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for meal prep, making it easy to reheat for lunch or dinner.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

This fried rice with chicken pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Serve it alongside spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal. Alternatively, top it with a fried egg for added richness. For a lighter option, consider a fresh cucumber salad on the side to balance out the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Fried Rice

To store your homemade chicken fried rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This is perfect for chicken fried rice meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Fried Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Fried Rice?

The key to perfect chicken stir-fried rice is using cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried. Additionally, high heat helps achieve that delicious stir-fried flavor.

Can I make Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken fried rice with vegetables ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great option for quick meals throughout the week.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Fried Rice?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of frying. Also, make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding the rice to ensure even cooking.

Variations of Chicken Fried Rice You Can Try

There are numerous chicken fried rice variations you can experiment with. Consider adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a twist. You can also include various vegetables such as broccoli or carrots for more color and nutrition. For a unique flavor, try a spicy chicken fried rice recipe by incorporating sriracha or chili flakes.