Delicious plate of Chicken Fried Rice with chicken, vegetables, and spices.

Chicken Fried Rice

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious and easy dish that is perfect for a quick meal. It combines tender chicken, savory bacon, and colorful vegetables, all tossed together with rice for a comforting dinner. This recipe is great for using up leftover rice and can be made in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients!

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
  • 2 eggs (lightly whisked)
  • 150g (5oz) chicken breast (finely sliced into small pieces)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1/2 onion (finely chopped)
  • 120g (4oz) bacon (excess fat trimmed, chopped)
  • 1 small carrot (peeled and diced)
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn (or canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cups (packed) cooked white rice (day old)
  • 3/4 cup green onions (finely sliced)
  • 2.5 tbsp Chinese cooking wine or Mirin
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 3 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper (optional)

Directions:

  1. Sauce & Chicken: Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Pour 2 teaspoons over the chicken and toss to coat. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. Egg: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the whisked eggs and scramble until just cooked, then remove from the pan.
  3. Fried Rice: Turn the heat to high and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil and the chopped bacon to the same skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until the fat starts to melt. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
  4. Cook Bacon: Cook until the bacon is light golden, which should take about 1 and a half minutes.
  5. Add Vegetables: Add the frozen vegetables (still frozen is fine) and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  6. Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken changes from pink to white, approximately 1 and a half minutes.
  7. Add Rice and Sauce: Add the cooked rice and pour in the sauce ingredients. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 and a half minutes.
  8. Final Touch: Add the scrambled egg and sliced green onions. Toss everything together to combine and then remove from heat.
  9. Serve Immediately!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

Serve Chicken Fried Rice hot, straight from the pan. You can enjoy it on its own or as a side dish with other Asian-inspired meals. Adding extra green onions on top for garnish adds a nice touch!

How to Store Chicken Fried Rice

To store leftovers, let the Chicken Fried Rice cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Tips to Make Chicken Fried Rice

  • Use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
  • Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different variations.
  • Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preference.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to give more color and nutrients. Consider adding some chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick!

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen rice instead of fresh?
    Yes, frozen rice can be used, but make sure to thaw it before adding to the fried rice.

  2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Simply omit the chicken and bacon, and replace them with tofu or more vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of oyster sauce for flavor.

  3. Is it okay to use brown rice?
    Yes, brown rice can be used, but you may need to adjust cooking time as it takes longer to heat through compared to white rice.