If you have a craving for a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly, this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is going to be your new go-to. With perfectly cooked rice, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables all married by savory soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry and fridge. Each one plays an important role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.
- 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice: Using day-old rice prevents mushiness and helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking to start building flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that’s classic in fried rice.
- 1 small onion (diced): Brings a mild sweetness and savory depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brightens and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast (diced or shredded): The protein star that makes this dish satisfying and hearty.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn): Adds color, sweetness, and a nutritious crunch effortlessly.
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten): Provides richness and a wonderful soft texture inside the rice.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings that essential umami hit and saltiness to tie everything together.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Sprinkled on top for freshness and a mild onion bite as a finishing touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to balance and enhance each ingredient’s flavor.
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Aromatics
Begin by heating the vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they soften and release their wonderful fragrance, about 2 minutes. This step is essential because it forms the flavorful foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Vegetables
Next, toss in your cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir everything around and cook for 3–4 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. This keeps the dish balanced between hearty and fresh.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
Push the chicken and vegetables to one side of the pan to make some empty space. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs into that gap. Scramble the eggs gently until they’re just set, then fold them into the rest of the mixture. This adds a lovely creaminess and more protein to your fried rice.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Soy Sauce
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: the cooked and cooled rice. Sprinkle the soy sauce evenly over the rice and stir to combine all ingredients well. Keep tossing and cooking for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and well coated with soy sauce, showcasing that signature fried rice flavor.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. Remove the pan from heat and top your easy chicken fried rice with sliced green onions. They add a burst of color and a fresh, mild crunch that completes every delicious bite.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha can add both texture and a fun spicy kick. A wedge of lime on the side brightens the flavors beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
This Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like an Asian cucumber salad or steamed bok choy. You could also serve it with some crunchy spring rolls to round out your meal with exciting textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this fried rice inside a hollowed-out pineapple for a tropical twist that delights the eyes as much as the palate. Alternatively, plating it in a colorful bowl sprinkled with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts adds both flair and munch-worthy layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Day-old rice actually works to your advantage here, as the texture holds up well and the flavors continue to meld beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze this fried rice in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back moisture and flavor. Stir frequently to ensure the rice heats evenly without drying out. Microwaving works too but can sometimes make the rice less fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled first to avoid clumping.
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you want a different protein, shrimp and tofu are fantastic swaps. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies or even edamame for protein.
Is it important to use day-old rice?
Yes, day-old rice tends to be drier and less sticky, which is perfect for fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy and clump together.
How spicy can I make this recipe?
Feel free to add sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish to dial up the heat according to your taste.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Definitely! You can prep and cook the rice and chicken ahead of time, then quickly stir everything together when you’re ready to eat. It’s a fantastic meal prep option.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe truly feels like a beloved classic that’s accessible to everyone, no matter your cooking skill level. The comforting flavors, quick preparation, and endless possibilities to customize make it a kitchen favorite worth making again and again. Give it a try—you might just discover your new weeknight hero dish!
Print
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This easy chicken fried rice recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Using day-old rice to achieve the perfect texture, it combines tender cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and scrambled eggs, all tossed in a savory soy sauce blend. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a classic Asian-inspired dish that can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oils and sauté aromatics. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook chicken and vegetables. Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Scramble the eggs. Push the chicken and vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until just set.
- Combine rice and season. Mix the scrambled eggs with the chicken and vegetables. Add the cooked rice and soy sauce, tossing until well combined and heated through.
- Final seasoning and serve. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for the best texture and to avoid mushiness.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Add a dash of sriracha or chili oil for extra heat.
