Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe: Restaurant-Style Flavor in 15 Minutes

Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Looking for the perfect fried rice recipe that’s quick, delicious, and budget-friendly? This homemade chicken fried rice combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables for a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner solution when you’re craving Chinese takeout but want something healthier and more affordable!

Why This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Works

There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory soy sauce that makes fried rice so irresistible. This recipe works because:

• It uses cold leftover rice – The key to authentic fried rice texture
• Simple ingredients – Most are likely already in your kitchen
• Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables or protein
• Quick cooking method – Ready in just 15 minutes!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Fried Rice

• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old, cold rice)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional for authentic flavor)

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

The best fried rice recipes are versatile, so feel free to customize based on what you have available:

• Rice: Day-old cold rice works best as it’s drier and less likely to clump. Jasmine or long-grain rice is ideal, but brown rice works too for a healthier option.
• Protein: Substitute chicken with leftover roast pork, shrimp, or tofu for vegetarian fried rice.
• Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, or bean sprouts for extra nutrition and color.
• Sauces: Add a dash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for deeper flavor.

How to Make the Best Chicken Fried Rice

1. Break up any clumps in your cold rice with your hands to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Beat eggs in a small bowl and pour into the hot pan. Scramble until just cooked, about 30 seconds, then transfer to a plate.
4. Add remaining oil to the pan. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add peas and carrots and stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Increase heat to high and add the cold rice. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until rice is heated through.
8. Add cooked chicken and continue stir-frying for 1-2 minutes.
9. Return scrambled eggs to the pan and break into smaller pieces while mixing.
10. Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture, stirring quickly to coat evenly.
11. Add black pepper and white pepper if using, tossing to combine.
12. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, give a final toss, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Fried Rice

• Use high heat – Authentic fried rice needs that wok hei (breath of the wok) that comes from high heat cooking.
• Keep ingredients moving – Constant stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – If making a larger batch, cook in portions for best results.
• Season carefully – It’s easier to add more soy sauce than to fix an over-salted dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Fried Rice

• Using freshly cooked rice – It will be too wet and sticky.
• Adding too many wet ingredients – This can make your fried rice soggy.
• Cooking on low heat – You need high heat for proper stir-frying.
• Stirring too little – Constant movement helps achieve that perfect texture.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Your homemade chicken fried rice will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little water and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, reheat in a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat.

What to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice

While this fried rice recipe is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with:

• Egg drop soup or hot and sour soup
• Chinese-style cucumber salad
• Spring rolls or egg rolls
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Sweet and sour chicken

Nutrition Information

FAQs About Making Fried Rice

What’s the secret to great homemade fried rice?

The number one secret is using cold, day-old rice. This ensures your rice won’t clump together or become mushy during stir-frying.

Can I make fried rice with freshly cooked rice?

While day-old rice is best, if you’re in a hurry, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to cool and dry it out.

What rice is best for fried rice?

Long-grain white rice like jasmine rice works best for fried rice, but medium-grain also works well. The key is having separate, firm grains.

Can I make this fried rice recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or tofu for protein.

This classic fried rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, using simple ingredients to create an incredibly satisfying meal. Master this basic version, then have fun customizing it with your favorite proteins and vegetables!

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes