15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
When the clock ticks and the dinner hour approaches, I often find myself searching for a quick yet satisfying meal. That’s where my love for 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice comes in! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, not just for its speed but also for its delightful flavors and ease of preparation. Picture this: a busy weeknight with the kids running around, and I need to whip up something that everyone will love. This recipe has become my go-to lifesaver, offering a delicious meal that feels homey and rich in flavor without taking hours to prepare.
The best part? Everything cooks together on one pan, making clean-up a breeze. In just 15 minutes, I can serve up a plate full of colorful, tasty ingredients that the whole family can enjoy. The aroma of chicken and fresh veggies wafts through the house, and I can practically see the smiles on their faces as they dig in. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, there’s something comforting about this dish that hits the spot every time. So, let’s dive into why this 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice is such a winner!
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
3 mins
12 mins
Medium
550 kcal
33 g
Low FODMAP
20 g
Sheet Pan, Skillet
Why Try This 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
Quick and Easy
I love that this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is of the essence. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
One-Pan Wonder
With everything baked on one sheet pan, you avoid the mess of multiple pots and pans. This not only saves time on cooking but also on cleaning up afterward.
Flavorful Ingredients
The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables in this dish creates a delicious medley of flavors. Each bite is filled with the savory notes of soy sauce and the freshness of green onions.
Healthy and Nutritious
Packed with vegetables like peas and carrots, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great way to get some veggies into your family’s diet.
Customizable
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. You can swap out the peas and carrots for your favorites, making it unique each time you make it!
Family Favorite
My family can’t get enough of this dish! It’s become a regular in our meal rotation, and they always ask for seconds.
15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice Shopping List
When it comes to the ingredients for 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. You’ll find that many of these ingredients are staples in my kitchen, and they work beautifully together to create a satisfying meal.
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast – Diced into bite-sized pieces, this protein is the star of the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying base.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil – This oil adds a wonderful nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the fried rice.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A pinch of pepper adds just the right amount of seasoning to the chicken.
- Three 8.5-ounce packets prepared rice – Using pre-cooked rice means you can save time while still getting that delicious texture.
- ¾ to 1 cup frozen peas and carrots blend – This mix adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients without any extra chopping!
- ⅓ cup lite soy sauce – A key ingredient that brings everything together with its savory taste.
- 2 large eggs – Scrambled and mixed in, they add richness and extra protein to the dish.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons green onions – Diced into thin rounds, these add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
Cooking Instructions for 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This part is straightforward and takes just a few minutes, making it a breeze to whip up 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a convection setting, use it for better and even cooking. This step is essential as it ensures that your chicken cooks through properly.
- Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil. This will make for easy cleanup later. If you prefer, you can also use parchment paper. Spread your diced chicken evenly on the pan.
- Drizzle the chicken with the toasted sesame oil and season generously with black pepper. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the oil and seasoning.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake the chicken for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to become cooked through and slightly golden.
- Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the prepared rice and the frozen peas and carrots directly from the freezer. No need to thaw!
- Pour the lite soy sauce over the mixture and give everything a good toss to ensure it’s well combined. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- While the chicken and rice are baking, scramble the eggs in a skillet on the stove until fully cooked. This will only take a few minutes.
- After the 2 to 3 minutes are up, take the sheet pan out of the oven again. Add the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir everything together until well combined.
- If you find that the rice seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of soy sauce. This will help to moisten everything beautifully.
- Finally, add the diced green onions and give it one last stir to mix everything together. Serve immediately and watch your family dig in!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Time: If you’re in a rush, you can prepare ingredients like the chicken and vegetables in advance to save even more time during the actual cooking.
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the sheet pan inside for even cooking.
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the peas and carrots for any other frozen vegetables you like, such as broccoli or bell peppers.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great meal prep option.
- Freezing: You can also freeze leftovers for up to 4 months. Just thaw and reheat when needed!
Helpful Notes about 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
If you’re new to making 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice, here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Storage: It’s best to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for up to 5 days without losing flavor.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: This fried rice pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some steamed vegetables on the side.
- Serving Temperature: For the best taste, serve the 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice hot, right out of the oven.
- Garnishing: Consider garnishing with sesame seeds or additional green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
How to Enjoy 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
Serving 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice is just as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish for any occasion:
- Weeknight Dinners: This dish is perfect for a quick family meal during the busy week, ready to be served in no time!
- Weekend Gatherings: It’s a great choice for a casual dinner with friends or family. Everyone can enjoy a bowl together!
- Lunches: Leftovers make for an excellent lunch option. Simply reheat and you have a tasty meal ready to go.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Make a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ve got meals covered!
- Kids’ Parties: The colorful presentation of this dish makes it appealing for kids. Serve it at birthday parties or playdates!
- Seasonal Pairings: This dish pairs well with light summer salads or warm winter soups, making it versatile for any season.
FAQ
Conclusion
The 15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a solution for busy days filled with flavor and comfort. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy delicious chicken and vegetables without spending too much time in the kitchen. I encourage you to try it; your family will thank you for a delightful meal that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
15 Minute Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a convection setting, use it for better and even cooking. This step is essential as it ensures that your chicken cooks through properly.
- Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil. This will make for easy cleanup later. If you prefer, you can also use parchment paper. Spread your diced chicken evenly on the pan.
- Drizzle the chicken with the toasted sesame oil and season generously with black pepper. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the oil and seasoning.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake the chicken for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to become cooked through and slightly golden.
- Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the prepared rice and the frozen peas and carrots directly from the freezer. No need to thaw!
- Pour the lite soy sauce over the mixture and give everything a good toss to ensure it’s well combined. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- While the chicken and rice are baking, scramble the eggs in a skillet on the stove until fully cooked. This will only take a few minutes.
- After the 2 to 3 minutes are up, take the sheet pan out of the oven again. Add the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir everything together until well combined.
- If you find that the rice seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of soy sauce. This will help to moisten everything beautifully.
- Finally, add the diced green onions and give it one last stir to mix everything together. Serve immediately and watch your family dig in!
Notes
- Tip 1: For the rice, I used three 8.5-ounce packets Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice, Fried Rice flavor that I cooked for 90 seconds in my microwave before adding to the sheet pan and baking it briefly.
- Tip 2: It is a new flavor of Ready Rice I just saw in my grocery store. I would also recommend this Teriyaki flavor or simply your favorite cooked rice, i.e. white, brown, long grain, etc.
- Tip 3: I use Ready Rice to save time.
