Chicken Fried Rice

Experience the Savory Charm of Chicken Fried Rice

Step into the world of comforting, flavorful home cooking with this Chicken Fried Rice recipe. It’s a satisfying fusion of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic seasonings that come together in perfect harmony. Every spoonful brings a burst of savory goodness, reminding you of your favorite takeout but made fresher, faster, and even better in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or prepping an easy meal for the next day, Chicken Fried Rice is your ideal go-to dish. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and wonderfully filling. With a handful of everyday ingredients, this recipe turns basic rice into something incredibly delicious.

Flavorful and Irresistible: Why Chicken Fried Rice is a Classic

Few dishes strike the balance between comfort and convenience like Chicken Fried Rice. The dish combines delicate pieces of marinated chicken with perfectly fried rice, tossed with eggs, onions, and bean sprouts for texture and color. Every ingredient plays a role in delivering flavor that’s bold yet balanced, while the quick stir-frying method locks in freshness.

Unlike restaurant versions, homemade Chicken Fried Rice allows you to control every element—from seasoning to texture. Plus, the addition of Shaoxing wine gives that irresistible “wok hei” or smoky aroma that makes authentic fried rice so special. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity, yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience.

For another savory dinner that’s equally satisfying, try this comforting Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes. Both recipes offer hearty flavors that make any meal memorable.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Rice:

1. Use Cold Rice: If possible, use day-old rice. It’s firmer, less sticky, and fries beautifully without clumping.
2. High Heat Matters: A hot wok ensures the rice gets that signature crisp edge while keeping everything light.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in stages if needed. Too much rice at once lowers the wok temperature.
4. Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust soy sauce and salt as you go—flavor control is key.
5. Add Wok Hei: Letting the rice toast briefly after the Shaoxing wine creates that authentic restaurant flavor.

For another one-pan favorite with bold Asian-inspired flavor, try Cajun Shrimp Pasta. It shares the same balance of richness and spice that makes fried rice irresistible.

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Equipment: Wok or large skillet, spatula, mixing bowls

Turn your kitchen into a sizzling stir-fry haven with this easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe. Every step leads to mouthwatering results—perfectly seasoned rice with tender chicken and crisp veggies.

Ingredients:

For the chicken and marinade:

• 8 ounces chicken breast (about 1 large, diced into ½-inch cubes)
• 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon oil

You’ll also need:

• 1 tablespoon hot water
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon white pepper (or to taste)
• 5 cups cooked rice
• 3 tablespoons canola oil (divided)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 1 cup fresh mung bean sprouts
• 1 scallion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine

Directions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine diced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and oil. Let it rest while preparing other ingredients.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together hot water, sugar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, salt, and white pepper. Set aside.
3. Prep the Rice: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork or your hands. If using leftover rice, gently break up clumps.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Heat one tablespoon of oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add beaten eggs and cook just until set. Remove and set aside.
5. Cook the Chicken: Increase heat to high, add another tablespoon of oil, and sear the chicken. Stir-fry until about 80% done, then remove.
6. Sauté Onions and Rice: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté onions until translucent. Add the rice and flatten it with a spatula. Stir-fry until heated through, about 5 minutes.
7. Add Sauce and Mix: Pour in the sauce mixture. Stir continuously until rice is evenly coated and hot.
8. Combine Everything: Return chicken, eggs, sprouts, and scallions to the wok. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
9. Finish with Wok Hei: Push the rice to the center, heat the wok edges, then drizzle Shaoxing wine around the sides. Stir for 20 more seconds and serve immediately.

Ready to Serve and Savor!

Every bite of this Chicken Fried Rice bursts with savory satisfaction. The blend of soy sauce, tender chicken, and fragrant rice creates a meal that’s both nostalgic and exciting. Best of all, it’s quick enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough for company.

Pair this dish with sides like Easy Dutch Oven No-Knead Bread for a delightful mix of textures. You can also complement it with a sweet treat such as Peaches and Cream Cake or finish your meal with a cozy Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding.

If you enjoy easy comfort food, explore hearty recipes like Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy. Each one, like this Chicken Fried Rice, celebrates flavor, simplicity, and the joy of home-cooked meals.

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