Discover the Joy of Easy Chicken Fried Rice: A Quick and Family-Friendly Meal
These delightful chicken fried rice plates bring together juicy chicken, wholesome brown rice, and vibrant veggies, all in one cozy dish. Whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it a trusted go-to for busy weeknights or relaxing family evenings.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and the family is gathered around the kitchen table, the comforting aroma of chicken fried rice filling the air. Every bite exudes warmth and satisfaction, reminding everyone of the simple joys of home-cooked meals. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I can assure you, it’s as straightforward as it gets. Let’s dive into creating this delicious dish together!
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and family-friendly chicken fried rice recipe that combines juicy chicken, wholesome brown rice, and vibrant veggies in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 egg, scrambled
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until browned and fully cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the pan and cover to keep warm.
- Wipe the skillet with a paper towel and add the remaining teaspoon of vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high heat, then toss in the onions and carrots. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the cooked brown rice to the pan along with reserved chicken, scrambled egg, and frozen peas. Stir in soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, sprinkle sliced green onions on top for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best texture, use day-old rice. Customize veggies based on availability, and adjust soy sauce to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice
Whip up a batch of this easy chicken fried rice and discover a delicious meal that not only pleases the entire family but also fits effortlessly into your busy schedule. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s hearty without being heavy, making it the perfect choice for casual dinner parties or quick weeknight suppers.
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 egg, scrambled
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions:
In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté them until browned and fully cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and cover it with foil to keep warm.
Wipe the skillet with a paper towel and add the remaining teaspoon of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat, then toss in the onions and carrots. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
Add the cooked brown rice to the pan along with the reserved chicken, scrambled egg, and frozen peas. Stir in the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, ensuring everything is well combined.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for an extra pop of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Serve your chicken fried rice hot, fresh from the pan. It pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces or a side of kimchi for a delightful twist. This dish stands alone, but some fresh fruit makes a fantastic dessert to round off the meal.
Storing Your Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover chicken fried rice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet until heated through. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice for the best texture; it helps to prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Customize your veggies based on what you have on hand; bell peppers or zucchini can make tasty additions.
- Taste and adjust your soy sauce to fit your preference for saltiness.
Variations on This Recipe
Feel free to switch things up! You could substitute the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can add a delightful layer of flavor, and switching to jasmine rice offers a lovely aroma.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, white rice will work just fine! Just be mindful that the cooking time may change slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just leave out the chicken and use tofu or tempeh along with extra veggies instead.
Is it possible to make this in advance?
Definitely! You can prep the ingredients a day ahead, and just sauté everything when you’re ready to eat.
Now that you know how easy and rewarding this chicken fried rice recipe is, gather your loved ones and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal together!
