Name: 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced into 1/2 inch pieces); 2 tablespoons oil (peanut, sesame, vegetable, or canola); 1/2 cup white onion (finely chopped); 1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); 2 large eggs (lightly beaten); 3 cups white long grain rice (cooked); 3-4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; to taste salt; to taste pepper (optional); 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (optional)

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice. When I think back to my childhood, I can still smell the savory aroma wafting through our kitchen as my mom whipped up this quick and easy dish. It was one of those simple meals that brought everyone together, especially after a long day. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the glistening pieces of chicken always made it a feast for the eyes first, and that first bite was like a warm hug on a plate.

Fast forward to today, and I still find myself reaching for this recipe whenever I want a delicious meal without the fuss. Each time I make 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice, it takes me back to those cozy family dinners, where laughter mixed with the sizzling sounds from the skillet. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory that I love to recreate in my own kitchen, often involving my kids who enjoy helping out. The best part? It’s super versatile! You can customize it with whatever leftovers you have or whatever veggies are in season.

This dish effortlessly bridges the gap between comfort food and healthy eating, making it a staple in my weeknight rotation. Plus, it comes together in just thirty minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into the magic of this simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a family favorite, just like it was for me!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Kitchen Knife, Cutting board

What Sets This 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice Apart

Quick and Easy

One of the main reasons I adore 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is how quickly it comes together. In just thirty minutes, you can prepare a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. I love the fact that it’s a go-to solution for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, and everyone is hungry.

Customizable Ingredients

The versatility of this dish is remarkable! Whether you have leftover vegetables in the fridge or prefer to stick to the classic ingredients like chicken and peas, 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice allows for endless variations. I often use whatever I have on hand, which makes it a budget-friendly option!

Flavor Packed

With the rich umami from the soy sauce and the hint of sweetness from the chicken, every bite is bursting with flavor. The addition of garlic and optional sriracha gives it a kick that many love, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Family-Friendly

This dish is loved by both kids and adults alike. Just the other night, my children devoured it without hesitation! It’s a fantastic way to sneak in vegetables without any complaints, and they enjoy helping to make it, turning dinner into a fun family activity.

One-Pan Wonder

Who doesn’t appreciate easy cleanup? Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. I often say that less time cleaning up is more time spent at the table with family, enjoying our food and each other’s company.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to get ahead on your weekly meals, 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep. Not only does it store well in the fridge for several days, but it also freezes beautifully for a quick meal down the road!

Ingredients Overview for 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

When it comes to the ingredients for 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice, simplicity and flavor come together beautifully. The combination of fresh vegetables, protein, and rice creates a wholesome dish that satisfies both hunger and taste buds. The key players in this recipe include chicken, which serves as the main protein, and an array of colorful vegetables that not only add nutrition but also make the dish visually appealing.

1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1/2 inch pieces – The star of the show, providing protein and flavor.
2 tablespoons oil (peanut, sesame, vegetable, or canola) – This is essential for sautéing and adds richness.
1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped – A classic aromatic that builds the dish’s flavor base.
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend – A colorful mix that adds vitamins and a touch of sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced – Infuses the dish with delightful fragrance and taste.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten – Adds creaminess and additional protein.
3 cups white long grain rice, cooked – The foundation for this fried rice, soaking up all the flavors.
3-4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – The key seasoning that brings everything together.
Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Pepper, optional, to taste – Adds a little spice if desired.
1-2 tablespoons sriracha, optional, to taste – For those who like a bit of heat.

Recipe Steps for 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

Making 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is a breeze and can be done in just a few easy steps. You’ll find the process straightforward and enjoyable, making it perfect for cooks of all levels. Let’s get started and transform these fresh ingredients into a delicious meal!

Heat a large non-stick wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Look for it to get hot; you’ll know it’s ready when you can feel the heat radiating from the surface. Add the diced chicken along with your choice of oil. Stir-fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and starts to golden slightly. This will give it a nice texture.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the white onion and the frozen peas and carrots. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies become tender and vibrant; they should be bright green and colorful.
Add the finely minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point!
Push the sautéed veggies to one side of the skillet. On the other side, pour the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them. This is where the magic happens! As the eggs cook, they should become fluffy and mix with the vegetables.
Once the eggs are cooked through, return the sautéed chicken back to the skillet. Then, add the cooked rice and drizzle the soy sauce over the top. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is heated through and evenly coated with flavor. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’d like some extra heat, drizzle in the sriracha at this stage. Mix it well, and feel free to add a bit of salt and pepper to your liking.
Once everything is mixed and heated through, serve the fried rice hot. If you have any green onions, feel free to chop them and sprinkle on top for a fresh touch!
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months.

Things Worth Knowing

Use leftover rice: For the best texture, use day-old rice. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
High heat is key: Cooking on high heat allows for that signature fried rice flavor and helps to achieve a nice sear on the ingredients.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is too full, the ingredients will steam rather than fry. Make sure you give everything space to cook!
Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to mix in or swap out different vegetables based on your preference or what you have available.

How to Switch It Up

There are many ways to customize 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some great tips to add your personal touch!

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 4 months. Just ensure it’s in a well-sealed container to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve it with a fresh salad or spring rolls for a complete meal. It pairs perfectly with a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Protein Variations: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile that still maintains the dish’s essence.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha or add some chili flakes if you like it spicier!
Seasonal Ingredients: Use seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and freshness.

What Complements This 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

When serving 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions to consider:

Fresh Cilantro: Garnishing with fresh cilantro can bring a bright flavor that lifts the dish.
Spring Rolls: Serve alongside crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
Green Salad: A light cucumber salad with a vinegar dressing pairs wonderfully and adds a refreshing contrast.
Soups: Consider a side of hot and sour soup for a warming combination that’s comforting.
Lunch Boxes: This dish works great for lunch boxes. Pack it alongside some fruit for a complete meal.
Picnic Friendly: It’s perfect for picnics or gatherings as it holds up well and can be enjoyed cold!

FAQ

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used in place of white rice, but keep in mind that it has a different cooking time. Make sure to cook the brown rice beforehand, as it takes longer to become tender. The flavor will also be slightly nuttier, which many people enjoy. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly to have everything ready at the same time.

Yes, you can easily make 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding in more vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu. Incorporating ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms can make it hearty and satisfying. You can still use soy sauce and eggs, or substitute the eggs with tofu scramble for a vegan version!

To make 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, such as tamari. Make sure to check the labels of all the ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this delicious meal without any gluten-related issues.

Fried rice is incredibly versatile, and you can use almost any vegetable you have on hand. Traditional choices include peas, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions. You can also use leftovers like broccoli or zucchini. The key is to ensure that the vegetables are chopped into small, uniform pieces for even cooking and to provide a nice variety of textures and colors in the dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor that makes it a standout meal for any occasion. With its quick prep time and endless customization options, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a family favorite in so many households. I encourage you to give it a try and see just how easily it can become a part of your regular dinner rotation. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the memories you’ll create around the table with this nourishing meal!