Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

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If you have a craving for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s as quick to whip up as it is satisfying, this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It brings together tender chicken, savory bacon, vibrant veggies, and fragrant seasonings all in one sizzling skillet meal. What makes this recipe truly special is how each ingredient blends perfectly to create a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or want to impress friends with your takeout skills at home, this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a winner every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredients simple yet essential is key to making this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe shine. Each item plays an important role, from the juicy chicken to the punch of garlic and the delicate hint of sesame oil, creating a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and downright irresistible.

• 2 tbsp oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola): This forms the perfect non-stick base and adds a subtle nutty flavor if you choose peanut oil.
• 2 eggs (lightly whisked): Eggs add a fluffy texture and mild richness that ties all the ingredients together.
• 150g (5oz) chicken breast (finely sliced): Tender chicken pieces absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic infuses every bite with its warm, aromatic punch.
• 1/2 onion (finely chopped): Onion provides a sweet undertone and slight crunch.
• 120g (4oz) bacon (excess fat trimmed, chopped): Bacon brings smoky depth and a crispy texture contrast.
• 1 small carrot (peeled and diced 0.75 cm / 1/3″): Adding bright color and a bit of natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup frozen corn (or canned or fresh): Corn bursts with juicy sweetness, balancing savory flavors.
• 1/2 cup frozen peas: Peas contribute a pop of freshness and a vibrant green hue.
• 2 cups (packed) cooked white rice (day-old preferred): Day-old rice separates easily, making for perfect fried rice grains.
• 3/4 cup green onions (finely sliced): Green onions add a mild oniony kick and fresh color.
• 2.5 tbsp Chinese cooking wine or Mirin: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Oyster sauce delivers umami richness and a savory edge.
• 3 tbsp light soy sauce: Soy sauce adds essential saltiness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional): Just a hint for that signature toasted nutty aroma.
• 1/4 tsp white pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat and complex peppery notes without overpowering.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

Start by mixing the sauce ingredients—Chinese cooking wine or Mirin, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper—in a bowl. Pour 2 teaspoons of this mixture over the sliced chicken, toss to coat well, and set aside for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with the deep savory flavors that make this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe so special.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the lightly whisked eggs and scramble gently until just cooked, leaving them a touch soft and moist. Then, transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside. These soft scrambled eggs will add a delightful creaminess in the final dish.

Step 3: Sauté Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Turn the heat to high and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Toss in the chopped bacon and cook for about one minute until the fat begins to render. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about one and a half minutes until the bacon turns golden and the onion softens. This creates a flavorful base that elevates every bite of your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Next, throw in the diced carrot, frozen corn, and peas directly into the pan. It’s perfectly fine to use frozen vegetables here, as they cook quickly and retain their freshness. Stir and cook for about one minute, letting the sweet flavors of the veggies meld with the smoky bacon and aromatic garlic.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces into the pan. Sauté for about one and a half minutes until the chicken changes from pink to white, signaling it’s cooked through. This step locks in the moisture and taste, ensuring every piece is flavorful and tender.

Step 6: Stir in the Rice and Sauce

Now add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet along with the remaining sauce mixture. Keep the heat high and stir consistently for one and a half minutes, making sure every grain of rice is coated and heated evenly. This creates the signature savory flavor burst that defines this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.

Step 7: Add Eggs and Green Onions

Finally, toss the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions into the rice mixture. Stir gently to distribute them throughout the dish, then remove from heat. The eggs add softness and the green onions bring a fresh, sharp contrast that brightens up each forkful.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Your Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is ready to enjoy now! Serving it right away keeps the rice fluffy and the textures at their best. Grab a big spoon and dig in!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to restaurant quality. Sprinkle extra sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and visual appeal. If you enjoy a little heat, a light drizzle of chili oil or a few red pepper flakes can bring a kick without overwhelming the comforting flavors.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe works wonderfully as a main or a side. Pair it with steamed dumplings or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing balance. A bowl of hot miso soup or a side of stir-fried greens such as bok choy also complement the meal perfectly, bringing freshness and variety to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests visually? Serve the fried rice in individual lettuce cups or molded using a small bowl inverted onto the plate for a tidy, elegant appearance. Adding a wedge of lime on the side can provide a zesty brightness when squeezed right before eating. These small touches make the experience even more memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Fried Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow the rice to cool completely before sealing to preserve texture and prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, just reheat thoroughly for a quick and convenient meal.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover chicken fried rice in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Portioning before freezing helps make reheating easier. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen on low heat while stirring often to avoid clumping.

Reheating

The best way to reheat fried rice is in a hot skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water to bring back moisture and prevent sticking. Stir frequently until the rice is piping hot and slightly crispy again. Microwaving works too, but can sometimes leave the rice a little mushy.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, though the texture will be slightly chewier. Make sure the rice is cooked and ideally chilled beforehand to get the best frying results.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Chinese cooking wine?

If you don’t have Chinese cooking wine, Mirin is a great substitute as it adds some sweetness and depth. Dry sherry or a mild white wine can also work in a pinch, but avoid anything too strong or overpowering.

Is it okay to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh vegetables will add a nice crunch and fresher taste. Just dice them small so they cook quickly and evenly. Frozen vegetables are convenient and still tasty, especially if you’re short on prep time.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by leaving out chicken and bacon and using tofu or extra vegetables instead. Swap oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce for a similar savory note.

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?

The key is to use day-old, chilled rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and moist. Cooling and drying the rice overnight helps each grain separate nicely, giving you that perfect fried rice texture every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe enough—it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that comes together with ease and minimal fuss. Perfect for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe brings joy with every bite. Give it a try and soon it will become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire too!

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