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; optional, to taste pepper; 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (optional, to taste)

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There’s something magical about whipping up a delicious meal in just thirty minutes, and that’s exactly what you get with 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice. I remember the first time I tried my hand at this recipe; it was a busy weekday evening, and I was in desperate need of a quick yet fulfilling dish. As I sautéed the tender pieces of chicken and colorful veggies, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. The best part? Not only is this dish quick, but it’s also packed with flavors that make it a family favorite. Each bite is a delightful combination of fluffy rice, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken, all brought together with a hint of soy sauce and a kick of sriracha. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice never disappoints. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings everyone to the table, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it your go-to weeknight meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
30 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 a world where time often feels like a luxury, this dish allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can have a savory dish ready in no time.

Customizable to Your Liking

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add more spice if you’re feeling adventurous. You can easily tailor the flavors to suit your taste, whether you prefer a milder dish or something with a bit more heat.

Perfect for Leftovers

Another fantastic aspect of my 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is that it makes excellent leftovers. I often make a double batch so I can enjoy it for lunch the next day. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making each bite just as delicious, if not better, than when it was freshly made.

Healthy and Satisfying

This dish is not only quick and easy but also nutritious. Packed with protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from the vegetables, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health. You can feel good about serving it to your family.

A Family Favorite

Lastly, 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is a recipe that my whole family loves. It’s hard to find a dish that pleases everyone, but this one does the trick every time. It’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table, which is a win for any busy household!

What You’ll Need for 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

The ingredients for this recipe are simple yet incredibly effective in creating a hearty meal. Each component has its role, from the protein-packed chicken to the vibrant vegetables, all working harmoniously to bring this dish to life.

1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1/2 inch pieces – The main protein that adds flavor and substance to the dish.
2 tablespoons oil (peanut, sesame, vegetable, or canola) – Necessary for sautéing and adding richness.
1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped – Introduces a savory sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend – Adds color and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the dish’s texture.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced – A must-have for that aromatic flavor profile.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten – Contributes to the dish’s richness and adds protein.
3 cups white long grain rice, cooked – The base of the dish, providing the necessary carbs.
3-4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – Key for seasoning and giving that umami flavor.
salt, to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
pepper, optional, to taste – Adds a hint of spice.
1-2 tablespoons sriracha, optional, to taste – For those who love a spicy kick!

Preparation Steps for 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

Making 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is a fun and engaging cooking experience. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the preparation process!

Start by heating a large non-stick wok or skillet over medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface. This ensures that your chicken will sear nicely and not steam.
Add the diced chicken and your choice of oil to the hot skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You want to see a nice char on the pieces for that added flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This prevents it from overcooking while you prepare the vegetables.
In the same skillet, add the onions, frozen peas, and diced carrots. Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the veggies are heated through.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring to avoid burning. The aroma will be fragrant at this point!
Now, push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked. This should take about 2 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked rice. Pour in the soy sauce and mix everything together thoroughly. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Now, it’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper according to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, drizzle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of sriracha and mix well.
Serve the 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice hot, garnished with green onions if desired. Enjoy the medley of flavors and textures!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook at High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps to sear the chicken quickly, giving it a nice char and keeping it juicy.
Use Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover rice, use it! Day-old rice is less sticky and fries better, creating a perfect texture.
Prep Before Cooking: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and quicker.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you double the recipe, cook in batches to avoid steaming the chicken and vegetables.

Recipe Notes about 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience with this recipe. They can make a big difference!

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice for up to 4 months. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Variations: Feel free to swap in other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Make It Veggie: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu.
Serving Size: Adjust the portion size according to your needs; this recipe can easily be halved or doubled.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Pair with a Salad: A crisp garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the fried rice beautifully.
Great for Any Meal: This dish works well for lunch or dinner. It’s filling enough to be a stand-alone meal!
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or casual parties. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Seasonal Options: In summer, incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a seasonal twist.
Storage Tips: After cooking, let the fried rice cool before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can easily turn 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice into a vegetarian dish. Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. You can also substitute tofu for added protein. The recipe will still be delicious and satisfying!

For the best results, use long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, when making 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice. Day-old rice works even better since it’s drier and less sticky, which prevents clumping during frying. If you don’t have leftover rice, make sure to let freshly cooked rice cool down thoroughly before adding it to the skillet.

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice. Store them in an airtight container for up to four months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or a skillet. This makes it a great make-ahead meal!

If you like a little heat, there are several ways to spice up your 30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice. You can add more sriracha during cooking or serve it with extra hot sauce on the side. Additionally, incorporating fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes can elevate the spice level and add a nice kick!

Conclusion

30 Minute Chicken Fried Rice is truly a delightful dish that combines convenience and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become a staple in your household. Enjoy every delicious bite!