Introduction
Chicken fried rice is one of the most flavorful and easy meals you can make at home. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for busy days. In just about 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and bold seasonings. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables while creating a dish that everyone will love.
Homemade fried rice is always better than takeout. You can control the ingredients, adjust the flavors, and avoid unnecessary additives. Plus, it’s healthier, more budget-friendly, and fresher. No more greasy or overly salty fried rice—just a balanced and flavorful dish made exactly how you like it.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make the best chicken fried rice with simple ingredients and foolproof techniques. From choosing the right rice to mastering the stir-fry process, every step will help you achieve that perfect restaurant-style taste. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Quick and Easy—Ready in Just 20 Minutes
You don’t need hours to make a delicious meal. This chicken fried rice recipe can be assembled in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, filling, and full of flavor.
Uses Simple Pantry Ingredients
No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. This recipe uses everyday pantry staples like rice, soy sauce, eggs, and vegetables. If you have leftover chicken and rice, you’re already halfway there!
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Prepare a large portion and savor it over the week. Chicken fried rice stores well and tastes just as good the next day. You can pack it for lunch, reheat it for a quick dinner, or freeze it for later.
Healthier and More Customizable Than Takeout
Homemade fried rice is fresh, flavorful, and better for you. You can control the ingredients, adjust the oil, and add more protein or vegetables. Want it spicy? Add some chili flakes. Need a low-carb version? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice. The choice is yours!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Chicken Fried Rice
Rice: The Best Type for Fried Rice
The right rice makes all the difference. Day-old rice is the best because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy. If you use fresh rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool enough before cooking. Jasmine rice or long-grain rice works best for a light and fluffy texture.
Chicken: The Best Cuts to Use
You can use chicken breast, chicken thighs, or leftover rotisserie chicken. Thighs add extra flavor, while breasts are leaner. If using cooked chicken, shred or dice it before adding it to the pan.
Sauces & Seasonings for Flavor
A mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil gives this dish its classic taste. Soy sauce adds saltiness, oyster sauce gives depth, and sesame oil brings a nutty aroma. For extra flavor, add also garlic, ginger, and a pinch of black pepper.
Vegetables: Classic Add-Ins
Peas, carrots, and green onions are the most common vegetables in fried rice. You can as well add bell peppers, corn, or bean sprouts. Frozen veggies work great and save time.
Eggs & Extras for the Perfect Texture
Scrambled eggs add richness and texture. Cook them separately, then mix them in at the end. For extra crunch, toss in some chopped cashews or sesame seeds.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you need. Chop the vegetables, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and beat the eggs in a small bowl. If using day-old rice, break up any clumps for even cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, then stir-fry the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Take it out of the pan and place it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies & Eggs
Use the same pan and add extra oil if necessary. Toss in the peas, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until they soften. Move them to one side, then add the beaten eggs. Scramble them until fully cooked.
4. Add the Rice & Sauces
Turn the heat up to high. Put the cooked rice into the pan and mix it thoroughly. Drizzle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice soaks up all the flavors.
5. Final Touches
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Mix everything well, making sure the flavors blend perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your freshly made chicken fried rice!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Rice Every Time
Use Cold, Day-Old Rice
Fresh rice can turn mushy when stir-fried. Cold, day-old rice has less moisture, making it perfect for fried rice. If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool before cooking.
Cook on High Heat
High heat creates a smoky, restaurant-style flavor. It also prevents the rice from steaming and getting soggy. Keep the heat high and stir quickly for the best results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Overcrowding the pan lowers the heat and causes uneven cooking. Stir-fry in small batches to keep everything crisp and flavorful. If needed, cook the ingredients separately and combine them at the end.
Balance Flavors
Soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt bring out the best taste. Add gradually and adjust to taste as you go. If you like more depth, try a dash of fish sauce or a pinch of sugar.
Try a Wok for Authentic Results
A wok distributes heat evenly, making stir-frying easier. It also helps achieve that signature fried rice texture. If you don’t have a wok, use a large skillet and keep stirring constantly.
Variations and Customizations
Protein Options
You don’t have to stick to chicken. Swap it for shrimp, beef, tofu, or pork. Shrimp adds a seafood twist, while tofu makes a great plant-based option. Use what you have on hand!
Vegetarian Version
Load up on veggies and avoid meats. Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas all work well. The more variety, the better the flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick
Love heat? Add sriracha, chili flakes, or spicy soy sauce. A drizzle of chili oil can also bring a fiery kick. Adjust the spice level to match your specific taste.
Low-Carb Version
For a healthier alternative, replace rice with cauliflower rice. It keeps the dish light while still absorbing all the delicious flavors. Stir-fry it just like regular rice.
Extra Umami Flavor
Want that takeout-style taste? Add a splash of fish sauce or a pinch of MSG. These small additions bring out deep, savory flavors without overpowering the dish.
Perfect Chicken Fried Rice Recipem: Ingredients and Instruction
Perfect Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked day-old jasmine rice
- 2 chicken breasts diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients – Dice chicken, chop green onions, and beat the eggs. Break up the rice to avoid clumps.
- Sauté the chicken – Warm 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan set to medium-high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry until golden brown. Remove from the pan.
- Scramble the eggs – Add a little more oil if needed. Pour in the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Push to one side of the pan.
- Sauté veggies and garlic – Add garlic, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add rice and sauces – Increase heat to high. Add rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
- Mix everything together – Return chicken to the pan. Stir-fry everything for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Final touch – Add green onions and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
FAQs
1. What is the best rice for chicken fried rice?
Day-old jasmine or long-grain rice works best. It’s dry and won’t turn mushy when stir-fried. If using fresh rice, let it cool completely before cooking.
2. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes! Brown rice provides extra fiber and a rich, nutty taste. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and slightly dry before stir-frying.
3. How do avoid sogginess when preparing my fried rice?
Chill leftover rice overnight and stir-fry it over high heat. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and stir-fry in batches if needed.
4. Can chicken fried rice be made without eggs?
Absolutely! Simply skip the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a plant-based option.
5. What are some alternatives to soy sauce?
Try tamari, coconut aminos, or low-sodium soy sauce. These alternatives still add great flavor without too much salt.
Conclusion
Making perfect chicken fried rice at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can create a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish in just 20 minutes. It’s a great way to use up leftovers while enjoying a quick and satisfying meal.
This recipe is also highly customizable. You can switch up the protein, add extra veggies, or spice it up to match your taste. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid of trying new things in the kitchen.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments and ask any questions you have. We’d love to hear your favorite variations, too.
Now, it’s time to grab your ingredients and start cooking. Make this easy chicken fried rice recipe tonight and enjoy a homemade meal that’s better than takeout!
For more recipes, try also our Lamb Curry Rice Bowl and Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.