Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Every time I make this Easy Chicken Fried Rice, it reminds me of family gatherings and cozy weekend nights. The smell of sizzling chicken and vegetables wafting through my kitchen brings back delightful memories of my family gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over delicious homemade meals. This dish is so comforting and satisfying, you’ll feel the warmth and nostalgia as soon as you take that first bite! I’m excited to share this recipe with you, and I know it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.

How to make Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice: Using day-old rice is ideal since it’s less sticky and adds great texture.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced: You can use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken—such a time saver!
• 1/2 cup sweet onions, chopped: Sweet onions add a slight sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced: These add a lovely crunch and a burst of color, making the dish more appealing.
• 1/2 cup peas: Frozen peas work perfectly here; they don’t need pre-cooking and add nice little bursts of sweetness.
• 2 eggs, beaten: The eggs help to create a fluffy texture throughout the rice.
• 3 green onions, chopped: These brighten the dish and add a fresh flavor at the end.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: This is the magic ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: You’ll need this for frying; feel free to substitute with sesame oil for an extra flavor kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Just a pinch to enhance all the delightful flavors.

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s talk about how to prepare this incredible dish!

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients before you begin. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. You can go ahead and chop all the vegetables and dice the chicken.

2. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Trust me, this is key to achieving that wonderfully sautéed flavor!

3. Sauté Onions and Carrots: Add the chopped onions and diced carrots to the skillet. Sauté them until they’re softened, about 3-4 minutes. The smell will be fantastic, and you’ll just know that it’s going to be great!

4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side and add another tablespoon of oil to the empty side. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they’re fully cooked. This usually takes about a minute or two.

5. Add the Chicken and Rice: Now it’s time to add your diced chicken and the cooked rice. Make sure the rice is broken apart well so that it heats evenly. Use a spatula to mix it all together thoroughly.

6. Toss in the Peas: Now, toss in those peas! If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. They will cook quickly and steam in the heat of the stir-fry.

7. Season with Soy Sauce: Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice mixture and stir to combine everything beautifully. This adds a savory, salty flavor that really ties the dish together.

8. Taste and Adjust: Take a moment to taste your delicious creation! Sprinkle a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

9. Add the Green Onions: Just before serving, stir in the chopped green onions. They add fresh flavor and make the dish look vibrant and appetizing.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the fried rice into serving bowls and get ready for compliments! You might want to place some extra soy sauce on the table for anyone who likes it a little saltier.

Why I Love Making This Dish: Easy Chicken Fried Rice holds a special place in my heart because it’s so versatile and easy to whip up. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and chicken, and let’s be honest, there’s something so satisfying about creating a meal that’s not just filling but also bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that my family asks for time and time again, and who doesn’t love that?

What You’ll Need: To make this dish, you’ll primarily need a good skillet or wok and a spatula for stirring. Having everything prepped and ready to go (also known as mise en place in fancy chef terms!) makes the cooking process much faster and more enjoyable.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• For a healthier twist, you can incorporate more veggies like bell peppers or broccoli.
• If you’re a fan of Asian flavors, using sesame oil instead of vegetable oil will add an amazing aroma and flavor.
• Want more umami? Add a sprinkle of oyster sauce or a dash of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Sides: This Chicken Fried Rice is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, I suggest pairing it with some crispy egg rolls or a light salad. A side of sweet and sour sauce also complements it wonderfully. Sometimes, I like to serve it with a dollop of sriracha to give it a little kick!

Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my household!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, just toss it back in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of soy sauce if needed to bring back the flavors. Trust me, it’s just as good the second time around!

FAQ Section:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and has more nutrients. Just remember it may take longer to cook and heat through.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken? You can use raw chicken as well! Just chop it into small pieces and cook it in the skillet before adding the vegetables.

Can I make this vegetarian? Of course! Just skip the chicken and add more vegetables or even tofu for protein.

Can I make this in advance? Certainly! You can make the rice and prep the veggies ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them right before you’re ready to cook.

This dish has become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it! I know you’ll love it as much as I do! The flavors are genuinely fantastic, and it’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together. Let me know how your fried rice turns out, and if your family loves it as much as mine does! Happy cooking!