Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its savory flavors, satisfying textures, and versatility. The Chinese Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, hearty meal. Whether you’re using leftover rice or cooking from scratch, this dish is both quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something deliciously comforting.

What makes Chinese fried rice so fantastic is its ability to be customized with a variety of proteins and vegetables. In this recipe, tender pieces of chicken are paired with colorful vegetables and aromatic seasonings, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of heat brings the dish to life, while the fried egg adds a rich and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings, this fried rice is ready in under 30 minutes.
2. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, with everything cooked in one skillet or wok.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or protein to make this fried rice uniquely yours.
4. Perfect for Leftovers: Fried rice is the perfect dish for using up leftover rice and chicken.
5. Full of Flavor: A delicious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices elevates the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Rice: If you haven’t already, cook your rice ahead of time and allow it to cool. For the best fried rice, use rice that has been refrigerated, as it separates better during frying. If you’re using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool.
2. Prep the Chicken: Dice the chicken into small bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook quickly and evenly.
3. Whisk the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs together with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onion and garlic, and chop the green onions for garnish. If you’re using extra veggies like bell peppers or corn, chop them as well.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or sesame oil and let it heat up.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Remove the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. Add More Oil: If needed, add a little more oil to the pan.
2. Scramble the Eggs: Pour the whisked eggs into the hot skillet and scramble them until they’re cooked through, about 2 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add the diced onion and garlic. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Frozen Veggies: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots (or any additional vegetables you like). Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through and tender.

Step 5: Combine the Rice

1. Add the Rice: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan, then add the cold rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps of rice using your spatula or wooden spoon.
2. Stir-fry the Rice: Let the rice cook in the pan for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to coat it in the oil and vegetables. This helps the rice get a bit crispy on the edges, which adds great texture to the dish.

Step 6: Add Flavor

1. Season the Rice: Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice. Add black pepper and white pepper (if using). Stir everything together to evenly distribute the sauces and spices.
2. Add Chicken and Eggs: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Top the fried rice with chopped green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish.
2. Serve: Serve the Chinese Chicken Fried Rice hot, either on its own or as a side dish to your favorite Chinese-inspired meals.

Tips for Success

1. Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice tends to be too moist for fried rice. Day-old rice is firmer and fries better.
2. High Heat is Key: Cooking on medium-high to high heat allows the rice to get a crispy texture and helps the flavors develop.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook the rice in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the rice fries properly instead of steaming.
4. Customize Vegetables: You can use any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
5. Add a Kick: For some heat, add chili paste, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers.

Variations

1. Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use tofu or additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
2. Shrimp Fried Rice: Add cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
3. Pork Fried Rice: Swap the chicken for cooked pork for a different protein option.
4. Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili sauce, red pepper flakes, or fresh jalapeños to heat things up.
5. Beef Fried Rice: Use thinly sliced beef such as flank steak or sirloin instead of chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice is an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish that you can make in just a short amount of time. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice, and the chicken and vegetables add a healthy, well-rounded component to this classic comfort food. With the versatility to adjust to your own tastes, this recipe is a keeper that’s sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Yield: 4

Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

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Fried rice is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its savory flavors, satisfying textures, and versatility. The Chinese Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, hearty meal. Whether you're using leftover rice or cooking from scratch, this dish is both quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you're craving something deliciously comforting.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Cook your rice ahead of time, ideally the day before, and allow it to cool. Cold rice works best for fried rice as it prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
   Dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
   Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
   Finely chop the onion and garlic, and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   Add the diced chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
   Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
   
3. Scramble the Eggs
   In the same skillet or wok, add a little more oil if necessary.
   Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and scramble them for about 1-2 minutes, until they are just set.
   Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside with the cooked chicken.
   
4. Cook the Vegetables
   In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
   Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
   Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
   Add the frozen peas and carrots, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
   
5. Combine the Rice
   Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables. Break up any clumps and stir-fry the rice for 3-4 minutes, until it’s heated through and slightly crispy.
   Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan, stirring everything together.
   
6. Season the Rice
   Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice. Add the sesame oil and ground white pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauces and seasonings.
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra soy sauce if needed.
   
7. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the pan from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
   Serve your homemade Chinese chicken fried rice hot, and enjoy!

Notes

Rice: Day-old rice works best because it's drier, making it easier to stir-fry. If you don't have day-old rice, spread the freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for 15-20 minutes.

Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for more variety.

Protein Variations: You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or beef, or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely.

Sauce Adjustments: For a spicier version, you can add chili sauce or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a sweeter fried rice, consider adding a little bit of hoisin sauce or a dash of sugar.