Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – A Deliciously Simple One-Pan Meal

 Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food—filling, flavorful, and packed with a medley of textures. Its versatility makes it a family favorite, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a satisfying meal prep option. Whether you're using leftover rice or cooking fresh, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's ready in under 30 minutes. Let's break it down step by step so you can whip this up in your own kitchen with ease!

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice:

• 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best for texture, but fresh rice is fine too)
• 1 large chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn work great)
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for a nutty flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (fresh adds more zest, but powdered works as well)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Extra sliced green onions
• Hot chili oil or sriracha for spice lovers

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Cooking happens fast with this recipe, so it’s best to have everything ready at hand:

• Dice the chicken, beat your eggs, and mince the garlic.
• If you're using leftover rice from the fridge, break up any clumps for even cooking.
• Set the soy sauce and vegetables within reach.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan, then pour in the beaten eggs.
2. Scramble the eggs gently, breaking them up into pieces as they cook. It only takes 1-2 minutes.
3. Scoop out the scrambled eggs and set them aside with the cooked chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

1. Heat the final tablespoon of oil in the pan, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they soften slightly.

Step 5: Add Rice and Combine

1. Push the veggies to one side of the pan and add your cooked rice. Spread it out evenly and cook for a minute or two to heat through.
2. Pour soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) over the rice, stirring well to coat it evenly.
3. Return the chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan, mixing everything together until heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the fried rice and stir lightly to distribute.
2. Serve hot, straight from the pan or on individual plates. Top with sesame seeds or add a drizzle of hot chili oil if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice:

1. Cold Rice Works Best: Day-old rice is less sticky, providing the perfect texture for fried rice. If you’re short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
2. Customize the Veggies: Don’t have frozen mixed vegetables? Use diced bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas instead.
3. Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a fun twist on this classic dish.
4. Amp Up the Flavor: Add a splash of oyster sauce or fish sauce for a rich, umami punch.

Chicken Fried Rice is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try tonight and savor the irresistible combination of savory chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies. Happy cooking!