Easy Chicken Fried Rice: Quick, Flavorful Comfort Food

The aroma of sizzling chicken, fragrant garlic, and vibrant vegetables wafts through the air as you prepare this Easy Chicken Fried Rice. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked rice mixed with tender chicken, all kissed by a savory soy sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort food wizardry that winks at your appetite, promising a flavor explosion with every bite.

This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent in the kitchen with my family. As kids, we’d gather around the table, eagerly anticipating our parents’ culinary magic. Now, I invite you to create your own memories with this Easy Chicken Fried Rice – perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings where laughter and good food reign supreme.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here; adjust based on your crowd size.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.

• Carrots: Freshly diced for crunch and sweetness; they make the fried rice visually inviting.

• Frozen Peas: These little green gems add color and nutrition without any prep work.

• Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is best; it’s drier and less sticky, ensuring great texture.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage salt levels while keeping flavor intact.

• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness that ties everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice your chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop your carrots into small cubes. Measure out your peas, soy sauce, and sesame oil so everything is ready when you need it!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Once hot, toss in the diced chicken. Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked through—about five minutes should do it! Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet (no need to wash it yet!), add more oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and carrots first; cook until they soften—around three minutes. Then throw in those peas like confetti at a party!

Step 4: Add Rice & Combine

Now it’s time for that glorious cooked rice! Break up any clumps before adding it to the skillet along with your previously cooked chicken. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil; stir everything together like you’re conducting a tasty orchestra.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your fried rice masterpiece! If you want more flavor or saltiness, feel free to add extra soy sauce or a sprinkle of salt. Stir well for even distribution.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer your Easy Chicken Fried Rice to plates or bowls—maybe even fancy ones if you’re feeling posh. Garnish with sliced green onions if you’re feeling particularly chef-y!

So there you have it! A quick yet nourishing meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to take mental notes of how many servings disappear because I guarantee this dish will be a hit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, cook the chicken until golden brown. Then, set it aside while you sauté the vegetables. Finally, stir in the rice and add soy sauce for that irresistible flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the protein—shrimp or tofu work wonderfully. You can also toss in extra veggies like peas, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover easy chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it until hot or stir-fry in a pan for that freshly cooked taste.

Cooking this easy chicken fried rice always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around and share their favorite tweaks to the dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Easy Chicken Fried Rice?

To make Easy Chicken Fried Rice, gather essential ingredients such as cooked rice, diced chicken breast, vegetables like peas and carrots, soy sauce, garlic, and green onions. You can also add eggs for extra protein and flavor. Using cold, leftover rice works best because it helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy. Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Chicken Fried Rice?

Preparing Easy Chicken Fried Rice is quick and straightforward. The cooking process usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you have pre-cooked rice on hand, the frying and mixing can be done in under 15 minutes. This makes it a perfect meal option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Can I make Easy Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Easy Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or leftovers that still taste fantastic!

What are some variations for Easy Chicken Fried Rice?

You can easily customize Easy Chicken Fried Rice by adding different proteins or vegetables. For instance, try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Experimenting with different sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce can also bring new dimensions to this classic dish.

Conclusion for Easy Chicken Fried Rice:

In summary, Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile and quick meal that combines delicious flavors with simple ingredients. By using pre-cooked rice and customizable add-ins, you can create a dish that fits your preferences and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or made ahead for lunches, this recipe provides convenience without sacrificing taste. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying meal any day of the week!

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Easy Chicken Fried Rice

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Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory soy sauce for a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this versatile recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite proteins and veggies. In just 20 minutes, you can create a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked day-old rice
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Cooking oil for sautéing

Instructions

1. Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken and chopping carrots. Measure out peas and sauces.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add cooking oil. Sauté diced chicken until golden brown (about 5 minutes), then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and carrots; cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add frozen peas.
4. Incorporate cooked rice into the skillet along with the chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot garnished with sliced green onions.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - Use day-old rice for better texture; it prevents clumping. - Customize with proteins like shrimp or tofu and add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.