Who doesn’t love a good fried rice dish?
But here’s a twist that’ll make your taste buds dance: ground chicken fried rice!
This isn’t just any old takeout imitation – it’s a game-changer for your weeknight dinner routine.
Did you know that the average American orders takeout 2.4 times a week? Well, get ready to slash that number, because this homemade version is not only tastier but also healthier and more budget-friendly.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure that’ll have you saying “goodbye” to delivery and “hello” to homemade heaven!
Why Ground Chicken Fried Rice is Your New Go-To Meal
Ground chicken fried rice isn’t just delicious – it’s a smart choice for so many reasons:
- Lean protein: Ground chicken is a leaner alternative to traditional fried rice meats like pork or beef. It’s lower in fat but still packed with protein, making your meal more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Time-saving: This dish is a busy person’s dream! From start to finish, you can have a hot, homemade meal on the table in just 20 minutes. That’s faster than waiting for delivery!
- Versatility: The beauty of this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Don’t like peas? Swap them out for bell peppers. Craving some heat? Add a dash of sriracha. The possibilities are endless!
- Cost-effective: Let’s talk money, honey! A homemade ground chicken fried rice costs a fraction of what you’d pay for takeout. You’re not just saving time – you’re saving your hard-earned cash too!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ground Chicken Fried Rice
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our star players:
- Ground chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for a healthier twist. If you’re feeling indulgent, regular ground chicken works too!
- Rice: Long-grain rice is the traditional choice for fried rice. It holds its shape well and doesn’t clump together. Pro tip: day-old rice works best!
- Vegetables: The classic combo is onions, peas, and carrots. But feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, corn, or even some leafy greens like spinach.
- Seasonings: Soy sauce is a must for that umami kick. Sesame oil adds depth, while minced garlic brings a punch of flavor. Don’t forget a pinch of white pepper for that authentic touch!
Pro Tips for Elevating Your Ground Chicken Fried Rice
Want to take your fried rice game to the next level? Try these expert tips:
- Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice has too much moisture and can make your fried rice mushy. Day-old rice from the fridge is drier and will give you that perfect texture.
- Don’t forget the egg: For an extra protein boost, push everything to one side of the pan, add a beaten egg, and scramble it before mixing it in with the rest of the ingredients.
- Umami boosters: A splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of MSG (if you’re into it) can really amplify the savory flavors.
- Get creative with garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add both flavor and visual appeal to your dish.
Variations to Keep Your Fried Rice Game Strong
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can switch it up:
- Spicy kick: Add a dollop of chili oil or sriracha for some heat.
- Veggie overload: Double up on the vegetables for an extra nutritious meal.
- Global twists: Try adding curry powder for an Indian-inspired version, or use lime and cilantro for a Mexican twist.
- Low-carb option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to make a keto-friendly version.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
While this dish is a meal in itself, here are some ideas to round out your dinner:
- Serve with a side of steamed edamame or a simple Asian-inspired salad.
- Pair it with a cold Tsingtao beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or, for best results, in a skillet to crisp it up again.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
While day-old rice is ideal, you can use freshly cooked rice in a pinch. Just spread it on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before using.
How long does this keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but it can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Ground Chicken Fried Rice
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.It's a healthier, more budget-friendly alternative to takeout, packed with lean protein from ground chicken and plenty of vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground chicken
- 3 cups cooked long-grain rice preferably day-old
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- 2 green onions thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop your veggies and measure out your seasonings. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.
- Cook the ground chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until it's no longer pink and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil (if needed) to the empty side. Toss in the diced onions and carrots. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the chicken and veggies to one side of the pan, making space. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Mix the scrambled eggs into the chicken and vegetables.
- Add the rice: Now add the day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir-fry it with the chicken, vegetables, and eggs for 3-4 minutes. This helps the rice absorb all the flavors and develop a slight crisp.
- Season and finish: Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the frozen peas and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the white pepper over the fried rice and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
When do you add the eggs? It’s not listed anywhere. I’m making this now so I’ll have to wing it but you need to add that!
Sorry for the confusion—I’ll make sure that’s fixed! Hope it still turned out great! 😊
Hi! Are you supposed to add the garlic with the onion and carrots? I didn’t see a note there and wanted to make sure I’m not missing it.
Hi! Yes, you can add the garlic when you sauté the onions and carrots. Just toss it in after the veggies start to soften. Happy cooking!