Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Craving something quick, flavorful, and satisfying?

Chinese Chicken Fried Rice is the answer! It’s the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and savory rice, all in one dish.

Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice for an easy dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a tasty meal in minutes, this recipe has got you covered.

Let’s dive into how to make this classic takeout favorite right in your kitchen!

Essential Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are both great options. Cut into small cubes for even cooking.
• Cooked Rice: Ideally, use day-old rice as it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice, but allow it to cool down before using.
• Eggs: Scrambled eggs add flavor and texture to the dish.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots: These are easy to use and add a pop of color. You can also use fresh vegetables if you prefer.
• Soy Sauce: This provides the classic salty and umami flavor that’s essential to fried rice.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to your fried rice. A little goes a long way!
• Green Onions and Garlic: For added flavor and aroma.
• Optional: Ginger, bell peppers, or other veggies can be added for extra flavor and variety.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Ingredients

• Dice the chicken into small cubes.
• Chop the green onions and garlic finely.
• If using day-old rice, break it up gently to separate the grains.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Scramble the Eggs

• In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
• Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-fry the Veggies

• Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add peas, carrots, and any other veggies you’re using. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender.

5. Combine Everything

• Add the rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan.

6. Add Flavor

• Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil to taste. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
• Garnish with green onions and toss well.

Tips for Perfect Chinese Chicken Fried Rice

To make your Chinese Chicken Fried Rice truly exceptional, here are some handy tips:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice can be too soft and sticky. Day-old rice has the ideal texture for fried rice.
• Adjust the Sauce: Soy sauce and sesame oil are key ingredients, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste. If you like it saltier, add more soy sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to stir-fry the rice in batches so it gets that crispy texture.
• Add Some Spice: For those who like heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers to the dish.
• Extra Flavor Boost: A splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce can add depth to the flavor of your fried rice.

How to Customize Your Chicken Fried Rice

One of the best things about Chinese Chicken Fried Rice is how easily it can be tailored to your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap Chicken for Another Protein: Use shrimp, pork, or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.
• Add Extra Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, or even spinach to the mix for more flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make your fried rice gluten-free.
• Sweet and Savory: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet touch or toss in some roasted cashews for a bit of crunch.

FAQ’s

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time, and just stir-fry everything when you’re ready to eat. The fried rice tastes even better the next day!

Can I freeze leftover Chinese Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes, you can freeze leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?

It’s recommended to use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky, but if you only have fresh rice, let it cool before using it for fried rice.