Chicken Fried Rice

There’s nothing quite like a plate of Chicken Fried Rice to make you feel at home. Growing up, it was a staple in my household, a dish that magically brought everyone together around the table. Whether it was a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish never failed to deliver comfort and flavor. I fondly remember the aroma wafting through the kitchen as my family gathered, laughing and sharing stories while I stood by the stove, eagerly awaiting my turn to devour a generous helping. With its combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, Chicken Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a warm reminder of love and togetherness.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

When it comes to Chicken Fried Rice, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that deliciously authentic flavor. Every component is essential, from the tender chicken to the fresh vegetables that add color and texture. The beautiful harmony of these ingredients is what makes this dish a classic favorite.

• 2 tablespoons canola oil or peanut oil – The oil is essential for stir-frying, providing the right base for cooking.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor and depth to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced – Offers a warm, spicy kick that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ cup onion, chopped – Brings sweetness and a slight crunch to the fried rice.
• ½ cup carrots, chopped – Adds vibrant color and a slight sweetness.
• 2 chicken thighs, thinly cut into 1-inch pieces – The star protein that makes the dish satisfying and hearty.
• Kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
• 2 eggs, beaten – Creates a fluffy texture and richness in the fried rice.
• 4 cups white rice, day old – Ideal for frying as it’s less sticky and absorbs the flavors well.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Provides a savory umami taste that’s quintessential in fried rice.
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce – Adds a unique depth of flavor that complements the soy sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• ¼ cup sweet peas, frozen – Offers a pop of color and freshness.
• 3 scallions, chopped, white and green parts – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor as a garnish.

How to Assemble Chicken Fried Rice

Cooking Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Follow these steps for a perfectly fried rice that’s full of flavor.

1. Start by heating canola oil or peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke; this means it’s hot enough for stir-frying. This step is crucial because a hot wok ensures that your ingredients cook quickly and evenly.

2. Add the minced garlic, ginger, onion, and carrots to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about three minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and fragrant. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic, which can develop a bitter taste.

3. Next, toss in the thinly cut chicken thighs. Sprinkle with Kosher salt and black pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about four minutes. The key here is to ensure the chicken is evenly cooked and starts to brown slightly for added flavor.

4. Once the chicken is cooked, use a large flat spoon or spatula to push the cooked ingredients to one side of the wok. In the open area, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs gently, allowing them to cook through before integrating them with the other ingredients. This will create a fluffy texture in your fried rice.

5. Now, add the day-old rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps as you go. Use your spatula to combine the rice with the eggs and vegetables, ensuring every grain is coated with oil. The rice should take on a slightly golden color as it fries.

6. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well and continue cooking until the rice is uniformly coated and heated through. The colors should blend beautifully, and the aroma will be irresistible!

7. Finally, gently fold in the sweet peas and most of the chopped scallions. Reserve some scallions for garnish. Stir until everything is well combined, and the green peas are heated through. At this point, you can also add a splash of sesame oil for extra richness if desired.

8. Transfer your delicious Chicken Fried Rice to a platter or individual plates. Garnish with the remaining scallions and serve immediately. You might want to have some extra soy sauce on the side for those who like a little more flavor!

Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips to make your cooking experience even better. These suggestions will help you master Chicken Fried Rice and ensure it’s a hit each time you make it.

• Storage: Leftover Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion it out and store in freezer bags for up to two months.
• Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish, so feel free to experiment with garnishes.
• Cooking Rice: Cooking your rice with a little salt and oil can enhance its flavor even before it’s fried.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a larger batch on weekends for easy lunches throughout the week.

Serving Options for Chicken Fried Rice

When it comes to serving Chicken Fried Rice, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Side Dishes: Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings to create a well-rounded meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even as a quick lunch option after a busy morning.
• Seasonal Pairings: In warmer months, consider serving it with a side of grilled vegetables or a light soup.
• Leftovers: If you have leftover Chicken Fried Rice, consider adding it to a salad or using it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
• Serving Style: You can serve it directly from the pan for a rustic feel or plate it elegantly for a more formal presentation.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Fried Rice is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with delicious flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for your family on a busy weeknight or serving it to friends during a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So why wait? Give it a try tonight!

Chicken Fried Rice

Craving something comforting? Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food, brimming with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart. Ready in just a few minutes, it's a dish you'll want to make tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons canola oil or peanut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, fresh, minced
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• ½ cup carrots, chopped
• 2 chicken thighs chicken thighs, thinly cut into 1-inch pieces
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 4 cups white rice, day old
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¼ cup sweet peas, frozen
• 3 scallions, chopped, white and green parts

Equipment

• Wok (preferably with wok ring)
• Sturdy large saucepan, such as cast-iron or Dutch oven

Method

 

1. Heat canola oil or peanut oil in a wok or skillet over high heat until just starting to smoke.
2. Add the minced garlic, ginger, onion, and carrots and stir-fry for 3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the thinly cut chicken thighs and sprinkle with Kosher salt and black pepper. Stir-fry until chicken is no longer pink, about 4 minutes.
4. Push the cooked ingredients to one side of the wok. In the open area, add the beaten eggs and scramble them.
5. Add the day-old rice, breaking any clumps and mixing it with the other ingredients.
6. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar until the rice is uniformly coated.
7. Fold in the sweet peas and most of the chopped scallions. Stir until fully incorporated.
8. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with remaining scallions. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: It's important to use completely cooled rice for this dish.
• Tip 2: The fried rice will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Tip 3: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breast for the thighs if desired.
• Tip 4: Consider buying pre-cooked rice from your favorite Chinese takeout for convenience.
• Tip 5: The dish freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

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Meet Audrey Hayes

I’m Audrey! I founded Cozy Daily Recipes to help you find joy in the kitchen every single day. I personally test and approve every recipe we publish to ensure it’s worthy of your table. Whether I'm slow cooking a Sunday roast or whipping up a quick lunch, my goal is to make your cooking life easier and more delicious.