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Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

4.9 from 16 reviews

This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender marinated chicken, mixed vegetables, and day-old rice stir-fried to perfection with soy sauce and sesame oil. It’s a perfect weeknight meal packed with savory goodness and a hint of aromatic ginger and garlic.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Rice and Vegetables

  • 2 cups cooked and cooled long-grain rice (day-old rice works best!)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix

Eggs and Seasonings

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided (1 tablespoon for marinade, 1 tablespoon for stir-fry)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat!)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (30 minutes is ideal) to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp, which brings out their natural sweetness.
  4. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant to enhance the overall aroma.
  5. Incorporate Frozen Vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots mix to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through, integrating their texture and color.
  6. Scramble the Eggs: Push all the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty space. Let cook for a minute or two until they start to set, then scramble the eggs until cooked through but still slightly moist. Mix with the vegetables for even distribution.
  7. Add the Rice: Add the cooked and cooled rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps of rice with your spatula to ensure even frying and texture.
  8. Incorporate the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, combining all protein and veggies for a balanced dish.
  9. Season and Stir-Fry: Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the sesame oil over the rice and chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if using for a touch of heat. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and evenly coated with the sauces.
  10. Taste and Adjust: Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce or pepper according to your preference.
  11. Garnish: Garnish the chicken fried rice with chopped green onions, adding freshness and a mild onion flavor.
  12. Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken fried rice immediately while it’s hot and fresh to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, use day-old rice as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
  • Adjust the amount of soy sauce to control saltiness based on your taste preference.
  • You can substitute vegetables as desired, such as bell peppers or corn.
  • To make it spicier, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili sauce.
  • This dish can be easily prepared in a wok or a large non-stick skillet.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken fried rice, easy fried rice recipe, stir-fry chicken rice, quick dinner, homemade fried rice