Lunch & Dinner

Best Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Name: Best Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of canola oil; 1 tablespoon of tamari or low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil; 3 cups of leftover or freshly cooked jasmine rice; 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 large eggs, whisked; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 cup of thawed mixed peas and carrots; 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce, adjusted for taste; 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro

Rosa Crumley April 5, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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You can’t just whip up a delightful chicken fried rice and leave it to fend for itself on the dinner table. It deserves some company!

Consider pairing it with crispy spring rolls, a zesty cucumber salad, or a side of sweet and sour sauce for drizzling. If you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy sriracha sauce can add a fun kick.

Now, let’s talk about why chicken fried rice is such a hit.

What is the Best Chicken Fried Rice?

The best chicken fried rice strikes a balance. It’s not too oily, not too bland. The chicken should be juicy while the veggies offer a satisfying crunch.

The rice?

It needs to be fluffy, not a mushy blob that could be mistaken for porridge! When made right, this dish brings together textures and flavors in a straightforward yet captivating manner.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine a plate filled with warm grains of rice, each one a tiny vessel loaded with flavors. Chicken fried rice offers a savory profile, with hints of umami from soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. The delicate sweetness from the bell peppers and the earthiness from garlic powder create harmony in every bite.

Add in the cilantro, and you’ve got a burst of freshness that rounds everything out. Every taste is a celebration of balance—a delightful dance of sweet, savory, and a whisper of spice.

Why You’ll Love This?

Picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon. You’ve got your friends over, and you’re all craving something delicious yet easy. Chicken fried rice is your go-to. It requires minimal fuss, as most ingredients are pantry staples.

Just a bit of chopping and cooking, and voilà, your table is set! You can also make it ahead of time, meaning less stress and more time for laughter and stories.

Ingredients

To whip up the best chicken fried rice, here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon of canola oil
1 tablespoon of tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil
3 cups of leftover or freshly cooked jasmine rice
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 large eggs, whisked
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 cup of thawed mixed peas and carrots
2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce, adjusted for taste
2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the canola oil in a large wok or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the chopped chicken.

Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. This step is crucial for ensuring that your chicken is nice and juicy.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Next, add in the diced yellow onion. It should sizzle as you toss it in. Cook the onions for about 2-3 minutes or until they become translucent. This will enhance their sweetness and give your fried rice a flavor boost.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push your cooked chicken and onions to the side of the pan. In the empty space, pour in the whisked eggs. Let them sit for a few seconds before scrambling them gently. Once cooked, mix everything together. You want the eggs to coat the chicken and onions nicely.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Rice

Now it’s time for the star of the show: rice! Add in your cooked jasmine rice, ensuring no clumps are left. Toss in the thawed mixed peas and carrots too. They’ll bring color and nutrition to your dish. Stir everything together, letting the rice warm and soak up the flavors.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Pour in the tamari or soy sauce, along with the garlic powder. Mix thoroughly and let all the flavors blend, about another 2 minutes. If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top before serving. Enjoy this warm while it’s still hot!

Tips & Tricks

To maximize your chicken fried rice experience, here are some handy tips:

Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be sticky. Using leftover rice helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a large batch, cook in batches to avoid steaming your ingredients instead of frying them.
Get creative with veggies: Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand—bell peppers, broccoli, or even corn.
Add heat: If you like a bit of spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a touch of sriracha.
Wok it up: If you have a wok, use it! The high heat and space allow for perfect frying.

How Can You Store This Best Chicken Fried Rice?

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), store chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days.

When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry, splash in some water or extra soy sauce for moisture.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

Not ready to trek to the store? Here are a few substitutes you can consider:

If you don’t have chicken: Try shrimp or tofu. Both work well and add great flavor.
No sesame oil? Use olive oil instead. It’ll still taste delicious.
Out of peas and carrots? Use frozen mixed vegetables. They’re convenient and still nutritious.

Conclusion

Chicken fried rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together friends and family. With its satisfying textures and flavorful components, it’s understandable why this dish holds such a cherished spot in kitchens worldwide.

So next time you find yourself scrambling for a quick and tasty solution, I hope you think of this recipe. With its endless adaptability, you can infuse it with whatever flavors you love.

I encourage you to give it a try, and who knows? It might just become your favorite weeknight dinner too!

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Print Recipe

Best Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: Asian Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 200 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Growing up, I always admired the art of cooking, especially the dishes that seemed simple yet packed with flavor. Among my favorites is chicken fried rice. There’s a special comfort in its warm, savory embrace.

But what truly sets it apart?

With its blend of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a symphony of sauces, chicken fried rice is a versatile dish that can cater to any palate.

This isn't just a meal; it's a canvas! You can easily modify it according to what’s available in your pantry. Let’s dive into the world of chicken fried rice.

Together, we’ll explore why it’s beloved, how to make the best version, and some neat tips to elevate your dish.