This chicken fried rice is quick and easy, making it a perfect meal for busy nights! With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish everyone loves.
Plus, it comes together in just one pan. I enjoy making it when I have leftover rice—it helps clear out the fridge and tastes amazing! Who can say no to fried rice? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Using day-old rice is best for fried rice. It’s drier and firmer, making it less sticky. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes.
Chicken: Diced cooked chicken is perfect, but you can use any leftover meat like turkey or even shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try tofu or tempeh instead!
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots are super convenient, but feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or broccoli. Fresh veggies can also work; just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly.
Eggs: Eggs add a nice texture but can be omitted for a vegan version. Just increase the amount of veggies or use scrambled tofu as an alternative.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice for a healthier option. For a gluten-free version, look for tamari or coconut aminos.
How Do I Make Scrambled Eggs Just Right for Fried Rice?
Cooking the eggs perfectly makes a big difference in your fried rice. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the eggs from sticking.
- Heat the pan over medium heat, then add oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour your beaten eggs in and let them sit for a few seconds before stirring. This helps create nice, fluffy curds.
- Scramble gently with a spatula until they are fully cooked but not dry.
- Push them aside to mix them with the rice later; they’ll retain some moisture!
With these tips, your fried rice will be a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen peas and carrots are ideal)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic chicken fried rice recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that you can whip up in no time, perfect for a busy day or a sudden craving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry it for about 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they are tender and bright in color.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, pour the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs with a spatula until they are fully cooked, mixing them with the vegetables afterward.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Mix it well with the vegetables and scrambled eggs. Pour the soy sauce evenly over the rice and stir everything together to combine all the flavors.
6. Add the Chicken Back In:
Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to heat all the way through.
7. Season and Serve:
Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with the chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken fried rice!
Can I Use Fresh Rice Instead of Day-Old Rice?
While you can use fresh rice, day-old rice is ideal because it’s less sticky, making it easier to stir-fry. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 15-20 minutes before using it in the recipe to reduce moisture.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can easily customize the vegetables! Feel free to swap in bell peppers, broccoli, or corn for the peas and carrots. Just make sure any added vegetables are cooked until tender before mixing them with the rice.
How Should I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through or sauté it in a skillet with a small splash of water to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and use tofu or additional vegetables instead. You can also replace the eggs with scrambled tofu for a fully vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning to your taste!
