Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to whip up, let me introduce you to my Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. It’s one of those go-to meals that brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice in a quick, flavorful stir-fry. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just want a comforting dinner without fuss, this recipe balances simplicity and deliciousness effortlessly. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses straightforward, everyday ingredients that pack lots of flavor and texture. Each element plays a role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, from the nutty sesame oil to fresh green onions giving a bright finish.

• 3 cups Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for the best texture and prevents mushiness.
• 1 pound Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into small pieces for quick, even cooking.
• 1 cup Mixed Vegetables: A colorful mix of peas, carrots, and bell peppers adds crunch and nutrition.
• 1 handful Green Onions: Chopped and sprinkled in for a fresh, slightly pungent bite.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Finely minced to infuse the oil with a fragrant base.
• 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Regular or low-sodium, brings the signature savory umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty aroma that elevates the dish wonderfully.
• 2 large Eggs: Lightly beaten and scrambled in for added protein and silkiness.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to your taste, enhancing all the other flavors perfectly.

How to Make Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep Everything First

Gather and prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking. Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled—day-old rice works best because it’s drier, which helps avoid clumping and mushiness. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, dice the veggies, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready will keep your cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Heat the Sesame Oil

Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Wait until it shimmers before moving forward—this step is key to getting that wonderful nutty fragrance and ensuring your chicken cooks evenly without sticking.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; this quick step builds the base flavor that carries through the entire dish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Throw in the diced chicken breast and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and to ensure every piece cooks evenly. This tender chicken is the hearty center of your fried rice.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan, pour the beaten eggs into the empty space, and scramble until fully cooked. The eggs add a rich texture that blends seamlessly with the rice and veggies.

Step 6: Add the Mixed Vegetables

Combine the mixed peas, carrots, and bell peppers with the chicken and eggs. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still maintain a nice crisp bite, giving your fried rice a wonderful balance in texture.

Step 7: Stir in the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Mix thoroughly so that every grain is coated with the flavors in the skillet—this part is essential to achieving that classic fried rice texture.

Step 8: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over the rice mixture and stir well to combine. The soy sauce brings all the ingredients together with its salty, savory depth, creating that irresistible ‘fried rice’ flavor everyone loves.

Step 9: Add Green Onions

Sprinkle the chopped green onions into the pan and stir for another 1 to 2 minutes. These add a fresh, mildly sharp contrast that brightens the whole dish right at the end.

Step 10: Final Seasoning and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste; remember to add gradually and taste as you go. Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is ready to be served hot and delicious straight from the pan!

How to Serve Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like extra sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds takes this dish up a notch with little effort. A drizzle of sriracha or chili garlic sauce is perfect if you want to add a spicy kick to your plate.

Side Dishes

Pair this fried rice with simple side dishes like steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some crispy spring rolls. Each provides a different texture or flavor that complements the hearty comfort of the fried rice beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the fried rice in individual small bowls or carved bell pepper halves. You could even make lettuce wraps to hold the fried rice, adding a fresh crunch that makes every bite interesting and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fried rice should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it a perfect quick meal option later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, too! Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated fried rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to evenly warm it up and restore some of the fresh-cooked texture. A splash of water or soy sauce during reheating can help keep it moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! While day-old jasmine or long-grain rice works best for texture, you can use basmati or even brown rice. Just make sure the rice is cooked and cooled before starting to get that perfect fried rice consistency.

Is it okay to substitute chicken with other proteins?

Yes! This recipe is very versatile. You can swap chicken for shrimp, pork, tofu, or even tempeh depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Using day-old, chilled rice is the trick. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and clumps together, which can make the dish mushy. Spreading the rice on a tray to cool helps if you must use freshly cooked rice.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Just omit the chicken and swap the soy sauce to a vegetarian version if needed. Adding extra vegetables or tofu keeps it hearty and satisfying.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can substitute it with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but keep in mind that sesame oil adds a unique nutty flavor that enhances the taste significantly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a homemade Simple Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that comes together so easily yet tastes incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal fast but don’t want to compromise on flavor. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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