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Chicken Fried Rice

Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice for Busy Weeknights

This Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights, offering delicious flavors and customizable ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Rice
  • 4 cups Cold Cooked Rice Use day-old rice for best results or chill freshly cooked rice before use.
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with shrimp, tofu, or leftover turkey.
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can use sesame oil for added flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion, Diced Shallots or leeks can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas and Carrots Mix Fresh veggies can be substituted based on preference.
  • 2 large Eggs For a vegan option, replace with scrambled firm tofu.
  • 4 tablespoons Soy Sauce Tamari can substitute for gluten-free needs.
  • 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (optional) Can omit for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Optional but recommended.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, Minced Can use garlic powder if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger, Grated Ground ginger can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Can adjust to taste, or use white pepper for a different flavor.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, ensuring the chicken browns and is no longer pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
  2. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the frozen peas and carrots mix. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are heated through and fragrant.
  4. Push the veggie mixture to one side of the pan, creating space. Pour in the beaten large eggs into the cleared area and gently scramble for about 1–2 minutes until they are just set.
  5. Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet, using a spatula to break up any clumps. Mix well with the veggies and scrambled eggs, ensuring the rice gets warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
  6. Return the previously cooked chicken to the skillet, gently folding it into the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together for another minute.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the fried rice, stirring to combine thoroughly for about 1–2 minutes.
  8. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously until everything is heated through and the rice is lightly crispy. Garnish your Chicken Fried Rice with sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always opt for cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly made rice can be too soft and lead to mushiness in your Chicken Fried Rice.

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