Chicken Fried Rice (Takeout Style) is a classic comfort dish inspired by your favorite Chinese takeout but made easily at home. It features tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, scrambled eggs, and savory sauces that come together in one pan for a quick, satisfying meal.
This homemade version captures the smoky, umami-rich flavors of restaurant-style fried rice while allowing you to control the ingredients, freshness, and seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or using up leftover rice, this dish is simple yet incredibly flavorful.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers authentic takeout-style flavor in less time than it takes to order delivery. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and a great way to transform leftover rice into something exciting. The balance of textures, from soft rice to juicy chicken and crisp veggies, makes every bite satisfying.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it is fast, customizable, and universally loved. It’s ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike, requires minimal ingredients, and tastes just like restaurant-style fried rice. Once you make it at home, you’ll never feel the need to order takeout again.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 420 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese-American / Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking Directions
Cook the chicken until golden, scramble the eggs, sauté aromatics and vegetables, then stir-fry everything together with rice and sauces until well combined and heated through.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just set.
Step 3: Add garlic and frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and heated through.
Step 4: Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes so the rice becomes hot and slightly toasted.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to evenly coat the rice.
Step 6: Add sliced green onions, adjust seasoning if needed, and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Serve hot.
How to Serve This Recipe
Serve Chicken Fried Rice hot as a complete meal on its own or alongside dishes like spring rolls, dumplings, or stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of chili oil if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Use day-old rice for best texture and to avoid mushy fried rice.
- Cook ingredients separately to maintain proper texture and flavor.
- Keep the heat high for that authentic takeout-style taste.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper frying.
Variations
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and broccoli.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Replace chicken with peeled shrimp and cook quickly until pink.
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha for heat.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
Conclusion
Chicken Fried Rice (Takeout Style) is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality results to your home kitchen. With simple ingredients, fast cooking time, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or meal prep, this dish proves that homemade can be just as good, if not better, than takeout.
Chicken Fried Rice (Takeout Style)
Chicken Fried Rice (Takeout Style) is a classic comfort dish inspired by your favorite Chinese takeout but made easily at home. It features tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, scrambled eggs, and savory sauces that come together in one pan for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
-
Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just set.
-
Step 3: Add garlic and frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and heated through.
-
Step 4: Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes so the rice becomes hot and slightly toasted.
-
Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to evenly coat the rice.
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Step 6: Add sliced green onions, adjust seasoning if needed, and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Serve hot.
