When I first whipped up this quick easy Chinese chicken fried rice, I had no idea it would become a household favorite. The sizzling aroma of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil fills the whole kitchen, and the taste? Oh, it’s just as good as (if not better than) takeout!
What’s even better about this dish is how effortlessly it comes together in one pan, leaving me with fewer dishes to clean. It’s versatile, nutritious, and pairs wonderfully with bold flavors, much like this pepper steak with bell peppers and onion. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to gather some simple, kitchen-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the star-worthy taste of this classic dish.
- Cooked rice (4 cups): Cold rice works best for a fried rice recipe as it stays firm when stir-frying. This prevents it from clumping or turning mushy.
- Chicken breast (1 pound, diced): Boneless, skinless chicken breast bites cook quickly and soak up all the savory flavors. You can also use thighs for juicier bites.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (2 cups): A blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds a pop of color and nutrition. Make sure they’re completely thawed before use.
- Eggs (3, beaten): A key component for authentic fried rice, scrambled eggs contribute to the texture and taste.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds a rich umami punch to the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to control the saltiness.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle of this fragrant oil elevates the dish with its nutty depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor base. Skip the jarred variety for the best results.
- Green onions (3, chopped): These are sprinkled on top as a garnish, giving the fried rice a sharp, fresh finish.
Note: This recipe serves 4 generously, so plan to adjust quantities if you’re feeding a crowd or saving leftovers.
Variations to Customize Your Fried Rice
Looking for ways to make this dish your own? Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or adding new flavors, here are some creative ideas:
- Dairy-Free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a safe pick for those avoiding lactose.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative. The cooking process remains the same.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or even mushrooms. Both soak up flavors beautifully!
- Extra Spice: For a heat boost, toss in sliced red chili or a splash of sriracha as you stir-fry.
- Add Protein Variety: Shrimp or even leftover pork goes amazingly well here.
For more inspiration, check out this Asian chicken crunch salad, which combines exciting textures and flavors.
Cooking Time
Here’s how quickly you can bring this tasty dish to life:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Large wok or skillet: Provides the high heat and space needed for stir-frying.
- Sharp knife: Essential for dicing the chicken and chopping vegetables.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
- Spatula: Perfect for tossing the rice and ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Mixing bowl: For beating the eggs.
How to Make Quick and Easy Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
Making this delicious dish is a breeze when you follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat some oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken and season lightly with salt. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned slightly. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Using the same pan, pour in the beaten eggs. Stir continuously to scramble them into soft chunks, then push to one side of the pan. You don’t need to clean the pan after cooking the chicken; the residual flavors will enhance the eggs.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add a bit more oil and the minced garlic to the pan. Stir it for about 30 seconds, then toss in the thawed mixed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring, just until the veggies start to soften.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Turn the heat up to high and add the cold, cooked rice. Break up any clumps gently with the spatula and stir everything together. The high heat will fry the rice slightly, giving it a fantastic texture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Sauce and Ingredients
Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture, then stir thoroughly to coat every grain. Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back to the pan. Toss everything to combine and heat through for another 2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from the heat, sprinkle your chopped green onions on top, and serve your fried rice hot. Enjoy every bite!
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
To make your chicken fried rice even more enjoyable, here are some personal tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Use day-old rice for the right texture. Freshly cooked rice is too sticky for stir-frying.
- Preheat your pan or wok thoroughly before adding ingredients. This step ensures even cooking.
- Don’t skip sesame oil! It’s the secret to achieving an authentic flavor.
- Add the soy sauce gradually. Taste as you go to prevent over-salting.
Explore other dinner ideas, like the ones featured in these dinner recipes, to match the boldness of your fried rice.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
For the best presentation, plate this dish directly from the pan onto bowls or plates. Here are more tips:
- Serve with a side of spicy chili-lime sauce or plain soy sauce for dipping.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or crispy fried shallots for a finishing touch.
- Pair it with light soups or sides, like steamed dumplings, to complete the meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional details per serving:
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~10g
How to Store the Dish
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy them within 3 days for the freshest taste.
Freezing: Chicken fried rice freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe bags and store for up to a month.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you still need convincing, here are some reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:
- Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy weeknights or cooking beginners.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak ingredients based on what you have.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and leftover rice!
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it even more enjoyable.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, this fried rice works for any occasion.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure any marinade or sauces you add are gluten-free.
What’s the best rice for fried rice?
Jasmine rice is ideal, but any medium to long-grain variety works well. Just be sure to use cold, cooked rice.
How can I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the rice, and use enough oil to coat the bottom.
Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be mixed in for variety.