Chicken Fried Rice

Servings: 4 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Chicken Fried Rice is a timeless comfort dish that brings together fluffy rice, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory seasonings in one satisfying bowl. Originating from Chinese cuisine and loved worldwide, this dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something incredibly flavorful. It’s quick, filling, and endlessly adaptable, making it a staple in home kitchens and restaurants alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s reliable, customizable, and always delicious. It’s also a great way to use leftover rice and cooked chicken while creating a fresh, restaurant-style meal in minutes. The balance of textures and flavors—soft rice, juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and umami-rich sauce—never fails to impress.

This is a Must Try Dish

Simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect one-pan meal that never disappoints. Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings, every bite is packed with comfort and taste. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and a fantastic way to turn everyday ingredients into a delicious meal. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this classic dish truly earns its place as a must-try favorite.

Recipe Details

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving
  • Course: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Chinese / Asian-Inspired

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

Cooking Directions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add remaining oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  4. Push vegetables to one side, pour in beaten eggs, and scramble gently.
  5. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  6. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
  7. Add cooked chicken back to the pan.
  8. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil; toss everything together until well combined.
  9. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously.
  10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

  1. Prepare ingredients: Dice chicken, chop vegetables, and have rice ready.
  2. Cook chicken: Sauté until fully cooked and golden.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Cook onion and garlic for flavor.
  4. Scramble eggs: Cook eggs directly in the pan.
  5. Add vegetables: Stir-fry until slightly tender.
  6. Add rice: Mix thoroughly, breaking lumps.
  7. Combine chicken: Return cooked chicken to pan.
  8. Season: Add soy sauce and sesame oil.
  9. Stir-fry: Toss until heated through.
  10. Garnish & serve: Add green onions and enjoy.

How to Serve

  • Serve hot as a complete meal.
  • Pair with spring rolls, chili sauce, or a light soup.
  • Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds.

Recipe Tips

  • Always use day-old rice for best texture.
  • High heat helps prevent soggy fried rice.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
  • Adjust soy sauce based on salt preference.
  • Add a splash of water if rice feels too dry.

Variations

  1. Spicy Chicken Fried Rice: Add chili flakes or sriracha.
  2. Garlic Butter Fried Rice: Stir in butter for richer flavor.
  3. Vegetable Chicken Fried Rice: Add bell peppers, cabbage, or mushrooms.
  4. Healthy Version: Use brown rice and low-sodium soy sauce.
  5. Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice: Add pineapple chunks for sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a pan or microwave until hot; add a splash of water if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Rice is a fast, flavorful, and versatile dish that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and endless customization options, it’s perfect for busy days or comforting meals. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite—easy, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice is a timeless comfort dish that brings together fluffy rice, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory seasonings in one satisfying bowl.

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add remaining oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  4. Push vegetables to one side, pour in beaten eggs, and scramble gently.
  5. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  6. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
  7. Add cooked chicken back to the pan.
  8. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil; toss everything together until well combined.
  9. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously.
  10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Keywords: Chicken Fried Rice
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but let it cool completely before frying.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely—shredded or diced cooked chicken works great.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, simply skip spicy ingredients.

Q: Can I make it egg-free?

Yes, omit eggs or replace with tofu scramble.

Q: Can I use other sauces?

Yes, oyster sauce or teriyaki sauce work well.

Stella Parker Blogger & Recipe Creator

Hi & Welcome to Stella’s Kitchen, where homemade recipes come to life with love and flavor. From easy weeknight dinners to classic comfort food and delicious desserts, My recipes are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.