Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe for Families

Chicken fried rice is a beloved dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a variety of vegetables, all harmonized with the savory notes of soy sauce and aromatic spices. This dish is not only a staple in many Asian cuisines but also a favorite worldwide for its simplicity and delightful taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, creating a homemade chicken fried rice can be both a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

This article will guide you through an easy chicken fried rice recipe, ensuring you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen with ease and confidence.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

To prepare a delicious chicken fried rice, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup of diced chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own easy chicken fried rice:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Push the garlic and onion to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs on the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the garlic and onion.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the sauces.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the sliced green onions.
8. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes to ensure all ingredients are well combined and heated through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and may result in a mushy dish.
• Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients to achieve a nice sear and prevent sticking.
• Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to allow each ingredient to cook evenly.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add more soy sauce or a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different vegetables and proteins to keep the dish exciting and suited to your preferences.

Variations of Chicken Fried Rice

One of the most appealing aspects of chicken fried rice is its adaptability. Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetarian Fried Rice

Omit the chicken and increase the variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms. Tofu can be added for protein.

Spicy Chicken Fried Rice

Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy kick.

Seafood Fried Rice

Replace the chicken with shrimp or a mix of seafood for a delightful ocean-inspired twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using freshly cooked rice: Fresh rice can be too sticky. Use day-old rice to achieve the ideal texture.
• Overloading the pan: Too many ingredients at once can lower the heat and result in steaming rather than frying.
• Neglecting to pre-cook proteins: Ensure chicken or other proteins are fully cooked before adding them to the rice to prevent undercooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for a balanced flavor.
• Forgetting to stir-fry: Stirring frequently ensures even cooking and prevents ingredients from burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your chicken fried rice with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a complete meal.
• Serve with a light Asian-style salad, such as cucumber and sesame, to complement the flavors of the fried rice.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added touch of freshness and crunch.