If you have ever craved a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up, this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic seasonings, it brings a vibrant harmony of taste and texture that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Using simple ingredients you likely have on hand, this dish offers a delightful way to transform leftover rice into a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color in your Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. Each element plays a vital role in bringing together a dish that’s fragrant, colorful, and seriously delicious.
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 lb / 450g): Diced small for quick, even cooking and tenderness.
- Cooked rice (4 cups): Preferably day-old to achieve the perfect texture that won’t get mushy.
- Large eggs (2): Beaten and scrambled to add rich protein and a silky texture.
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup): Offers a sweet pop of freshness and vibrant green color.
- Frozen carrots (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and a touch of crunch.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): The salty umami seasoning that ties everything together.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a deep, nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a perfect garlicky punch.
- Green onions (3, chopped): For a fresh, oniony bite and a splash of green.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Used for stir-frying everything to perfection.
- Bell pepper (1/4 cup, diced): Adds crunch and vibrant color, but feel free to use your favorite veggies.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Brings a warm, zesty brightness that elevates the flavor.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking, get all your ingredients prepped and ready. Dice the chicken into small, uniform cubes for even cooking. Chop the green onions and mince the garlic finely to release their maximum flavor. If you’re lucky enough to have day-old rice, gently break it apart to ensure your rice grains won’t clump or stick together when frying.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat up your skillet or wok with one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and cook until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside—this ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender while you cook the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, you might want to add just a touch more oil if needed. Crack the beaten eggs directly into the skillet and scramble them gently until fully cooked, creating soft, fluffy curds. Remove them from the pan and keep aside with the chicken to combine later and add extra protein richness.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Veggies
Now it’s time to build your flavor base. Toss the minced garlic into the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and golden. Then add your peas, carrots, bell pepper, and any other vegetables you want to include. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften nicely but still retain a little crunch – the crunch adds so much to the wonderful texture of the dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Next, add the rice to the skillet, carefully breaking up any lumps to ensure the grains become separated and nicely coated. Stir-fry the rice for a couple of minutes so it warms through and fries evenly.
Step 6: Add Chicken and Eggs Back In
Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan, folding them gently into the rice and vegetable mixture. This combines all the essential elements, creating a beautiful one-pan meal that looks just as great as it tastes.
Step 7: Add Flavoring and Finish
Pour in the soy sauce and fragrant sesame oil to your taste. Stir everything together with care, letting the flavors meld and the rice get a slight caramelized edge for 1 to 2 minutes. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top and give a good toss, adding a burst of fresh, crisp onion flavor that completes this wonderful Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To really make this dish pop, garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For an added splash of color and a little zing, a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of lime can brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
This fried rice shines on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed dumplings, crunchy spring rolls, or a light cucumber salad. The balance between the warm, savory rice and cool, crisp sides makes for a wonderfully rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve your Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in individual pineapple bowls or lettuce wraps for a fun, tropical twist. You can also mold the fried rice using a small bowl or ring mold to create neat, attractive plating that looks straight out of a restaurant.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe tastes just as good the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness and safety.
Freezing
You can freeze fried rice, though it’s best to consume it fresh or refrigerated. If freezing, place the cooled fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers, and use within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the fried rice to prevent drying out, then warm it up in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot. Gently stir while reheating for even heat distribution and to revive the rice’s soft texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well for a healthier twist, though it may take a bit longer to cook and has a slightly nuttier flavor. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and preferably cooled before you start stir-frying.
What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Both chicken breast and thighs work wonderfully here. Breast is leaner and cooks quickly, while thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Choose based on your preference or what you have available.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies or tofu for protein. Use vegetable oil and soy sauce, and you’ll still enjoy a deeply flavorful fried rice experience.
Why is day-old rice recommended?
Day-old rice is drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice, which helps grains separate better when frying. This prevents mushiness and gives that perfect, classic fried rice texture.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with any favorite veggies like corn, broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas. Just adjust stir-frying times to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious celebration of comforting flavors, simple techniques, and colorful ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a dish that encourages creativity while delivering reliable, satisfying results every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to recipe!
Print
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a savory and colorful dish featuring tender diced chicken, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables stir-fried with soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for using day-old rice, it’s a quick and delicious meal that serves as a comforting weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch option.
Ingredients
Chicken and Protein
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, diced into small cubes
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen carrots (diced)
- 1/4 cup bell pepper (diced, or any other vegetables of choice)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
Rice
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for best texture)
Oils and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Dice the chicken into small cubes. Chop the green onions and garlic finely. If using day-old rice, gently break it up to separate the grains for best texture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Scramble the Eggs: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Crack the beaten eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-fry the Veggies: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the peas, carrots, and any other vegetables like bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to heat through and combine flavors. Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan.
- Add Flavor: Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly and let cook for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top and toss well. Serve your delicious homemade Chinese Chicken Fried Rice hot.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy since it is drier and separates better when stir-fried.
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for different variations.
- Adjust soy sauce according to salt preference, and consider low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as corn, bean sprouts, or mushrooms to increase nutrition and flavor.
- Ensure to use high heat while stir-frying to get the classic fried rice texture.
