If you are craving a colorful, comforting, and downright delicious meal that comes together in a flash, this Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Packed with tender pieces of chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, it takes a simple stir-fry to new heights with layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is an unbeatable combination of convenience and taste that feels both homey and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe starts with straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in bringing the dish to life. These essentials balance protein, veggies, and seasoning to create a harmonious and hearty meal that also looks stunning on the plate.
- Vegetable oil: This neutral oil is perfect for stir-frying, providing a high smoke point and allowing flavors to develop without overpowering the dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken adds a satisfying protein component that’s tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Cooked and chilled white rice: Day-old rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and firm, preventing mushiness during frying.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs introduce richness and a wonderful scrambled texture that blends seamlessly into the rice.
- Frozen peas and carrots: These colorful veggies add a natural sweetness and some crunch, brightening up each bite.
- Diced onion: Adds aromatic depth and subtle sweetness when sautéed.
- Minced garlic: A little goes a long way to infuse that irresistible savory punch.
- Soy sauce: The classic umami element that ties all the flavors together with a salty, savory kick.
- Oyster sauce (optional): Adds a lovely complexity and slight sweetness if you want to take the recipe up a notch.
- Sesame oil: Just a touch lends an unmistakable toasted nuttiness finishing touch.
- Green onions: Freshly sliced for garnish, they bring brightness and a bit of crunch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
How to Make Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper to build flavor right from the beginning. Stir occasionally as it cooks for about 5 to 6 minutes, until each piece is beautifully browned and cooked through. Once perfect, remove the chicken to a plate and set aside so you can focus on the vegetables and eggs next.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Use the same skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in diced onions and cook them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and start turning translucent. Then, stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds — this brief time allows the garlic to release its irresistible aroma without becoming bitter or burnt.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the softened onions and garlic over to one side of the skillet, making room for the eggs. Pour your lightly beaten eggs into the empty space, letting them cook undisturbed for a moment before scrambling gently until they’re just set. Once scrambled, combine the eggs with the onions and garlic so every bite gets a little bit of everything.
Step 4: Add Rice and Vegetables
Next, add the cold, cooked rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps and ensure every grain gets coated with the fragrant mixture. Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the thawed peas and carrots. This stage brings texture and color that make the dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Step 5: Season and Finish Cooking
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, and drizzle the sesame oil. Stir everything well to combine these flavors evenly throughout the rice. Let the skillet cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so all ingredients are heated through and perfectly melded together. Finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy pop that instantly elevates the presentation.
How to Serve Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
The little touches can make a big difference when serving your fried rice. Freshly sliced green onions add a lovely burst of color and mild freshness, perfectly complementing the savory notes. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a touch of chili oil for an exciting contrast.
Side Dishes
Since Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe is a complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbohydrates, it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or even some quick pickled vegetables to balance the warmth and richness of the fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner presentation, serve the fried rice in individual bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for a vibrant twist. Garnish with extra green onions or toasted sesame seeds to impress your guests or family. You can even make it a fun build-your-own bowl night, letting everyone add their favorite toppings like sliced avocado, chopped peanuts, or a fried egg on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for busy weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the fried rice in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor when reheated.
Reheating
For reheating, use a skillet or wok on medium heat with a splash of oil to restore the rice’s original texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Adding a few drops of water before reheating helps prevent dryness and keeps the rice moist and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but it may require slightly longer cooking time and a bit more liquid to keep it from drying out during stir-frying. Using day-old brown rice works best to avoid clumping.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and omit the eggs or use scrambled tofu instead. Replace soy sauce with a vegan-friendly option if needed, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy fried rice?
Using cooked and thoroughly chilled rice, preferably day-old, is key to preventing sogginess. Avoid freshly cooked rice that hasn’t had time to dry out. Also, cooking over higher heat and stirring frequently helps ensure a nice, slightly crispy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with vegetables like bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or snap peas based on what you enjoy or have on hand. Just remember to add them at the right time so they retain some crunch and vibrant color.
Is oyster sauce necessary in this recipe?
Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended if you want to deepen the umami flavor. If you prefer, you can omit it or substitute with more soy sauce or a vegetarian mushroom sauce for a similar taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a simple Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe that feels both comforting and exciting every time you make it. It’s quick enough for busy nights, flexible enough to suit your cravings, and endlessly satisfying with every bite. So why wait? Grab your wok, gather those wholesome ingredients, and dive into a meal that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful stir-fry dish combining tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and fluffy day-old rice tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it easily adapts to your favorite vegetables or gluten-free alternatives.
Ingredients
Protein and Rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 3 cups cooked and chilled white rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs gently until fully cooked, then combine them with the onions and garlic.
- Add rice and vegetables: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the thawed peas and carrots.
- Season and heat through: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is heated through and evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve the fried rice hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Day-old rice works best as it helps keep the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- You can swap peas and carrots for other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or broccoli based on your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
