How to Make Delicious Chicken Fried Rice at Home

Chicken fried rice is a classic Chinese takeout dish that is beloved for its flavorful combination of tender chicken, eggs, vegetables, and light, fluffy rice Though takeout is convenient, homemade chicken fried rice is easier to make than you think – and infinitely more customizable to your personal tastes Here is a simple guide to making foolproof chicken fried rice at home.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

The beauty of fried rice is that you can add almost any protein vegetable or flavorings you want. However, there are a few staple ingredients that form the base of most chicken fried rice recipes

• Cooked, chilled rice: Short or medium grain white rice works best. Make sure it’s cooled completely before frying.

• Chicken: Diced, cooked chicken thigh or breast meat. You can use roasted, grilled, or rotisserie chicken.

• Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs add protein.

• Onion: Diced onion provides flavor.

• Garlic: Minced garlic adds aroma.

• Frozen mixed vegetables: A stir-fry blend adds color and crunch. Common options are peas, carrots, corn, green beans, and red bell pepper.

• Soy sauce: For salty flavor. Use reduced-sodium if you prefer.

• Sesame oil: Adds nutty, aromatic flavor.

• Salt and ground black pepper: For seasoning.

• Green onions: Chopped green onions finish it off.

Chicken Fried Rice Step-by-Step Method

Follow these simple steps for foolproof chicken fried rice:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Cook the rice 1-2 days ahead and chill it completely in the refrigerator. This dries out the rice’s exterior so it can fry up nicely.
• Dice the chicken, onion, garlic, and green onions.
• Lightly beat the eggs with a splash of water.
• Thaw the frozen vegetables under cool running water. Drain well.

2. Cook the Egg

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Pour in the beaten eggs. Quickly scramble until lightly cooked but still moist.
• Transfer cooked egg to a plate.

3. Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

• Add another tablespoon oil to skillet.
• Add diced chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly browned.
• Stir in onion, garlic, and frozen vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes until onions soften.

4. Add the Rice

• Add chilled cooked rice to the skillet.
• Pour over soy sauce and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly.
• Fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing rice to brown slightly.

5. Finish the Dish

• Push rice mixture to sides of skillet.
• Add cooked egg to center and break up into smaller pieces.
• Stir egg into rice until evenly combined.
• Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.

That’s it! For a simple 30 minute meal, chicken fried rice is ready to enjoy.

Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Fried Rice

Here are some handy tips for getting restaurant-quality results:

• Use day-old, chilled rice. This is the cardinal rule for fried rice with the perfect texture.

• Cook items separately. Cook egg, chicken, vegetables, and rice separately for best results.

• Add a splash of oil. A small amount of neutral oil like vegetable, peanut, or canola allows for even frying.

• Brown the rice. Let the rice fry undisturbed for a minute or two to get crispy, caramelized edges.

• Season as you go. Taste and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until the flavor pops.

• Customize it. Try swapping chicken for shrimp or pork. Use your favorite vegetables. Add spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes. The options are endless!

• Make a batch. Leftover fried rice makes an easy lunch or dinner later in the week.

Variations for Chicken Fried Rice

Once you master the basic recipe, try these tasty variations:

• Pineapple chicken fried rice: Add chunks of juicy pineapple for a touch of sweetness.

• Curry chicken fried rice: Stir in curry powder and peas for an Indian-inspired twist.

• Kimchi chicken fried rice: Mix in spicy, funky kimchi for a Korean kick.

• Jambalaya fried rice: Use shrimp, chicken sausage, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning for Southern flair.

• Chicken fried cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, swap cauliflower rice for white rice.

• Vegetable fried rice: Omit the chicken and double up on your favorite veggies.

The possibilities for fried rice combinations are endless, so get creative with ingredients you love!

How to Store and Reheat Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice keeps well for 4-5 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rice may dry out slightly upon refrigeration.

To reheat individual portions, put the fried rice in a skillet with a teaspoon of water or oil. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout. Add more soy sauce or sesame oil to refresh the flavor as needed.

For long term storage, cooked fried rice can be frozen for 2-3 months. Portion it out into freezer bags or airtight containers before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh rice instead of chilled, day-old rice?

Freshly cooked rice won’t give you the optimal fried rice texture. For light and fluffy grains, make sure to chill cooked rice overnight first.

What if my fried rice is too wet?

If your fried rice seems soggy, try cooking over higher heat to evaporate excess moisture. You can also add a little cornstarch slurry to the rice, simmer briefly, then stir fry to dry it out.

What kind of oil should I use?

A neutral oil like vegetable, canola, peanut, or rice bran oil allows the other flavors to shine. Avoid strong flavored oils like olive or sesame oil.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, brown rice can be substituted 1:1 for white rice. It may require slightly longer cooking time to get tender.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply leave out the chicken and double up on your favorite vegetables instead. Tofu also makes a nice addition.

Chicken fried rice is an endlessly adaptable weeknight wonder. With chilled rice, fresh veggies, and a few pantry staples, you can whip up this takeout classic at home anytime. So get creative with ingredients you love for a quick, delicious meal everyone will enjoy.