Craving something quick and packed with flavor?
This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a total game-changer! In just 20 minutes, you can have a sizzling, one-pan dish that’s bursting with tender chicken, veggies, and all the savory goodness of takeout—without the long wait or the greasy containers.
Forget delivery, this is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again!
For Chicken Fried Rice
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into ½-inch pieces. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
- Canola or Vegetable Oil – For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Frozen Peas and Carrots – Use straight from the freezer for convenience.
- Green Onions – Provides freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- Garlic – Adds a savory depth of flavor to the dish.
- Eggs – Lightly beaten, scrambled for texture.
- Cooked Rice – White rice is ideal, but brown rice can also work. For a shortcut, use pre-cooked rice pouches.
- Soy Sauce – A savory, umami-packed addition. Use low-sodium for a healthier version.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, for additional seasoning.
Homemade Chicken Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp canola or vegetable oil
- ¾ to 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1½ cups frozen peas and diced carrots blend (no need to thaw, use directly from the freezer)
- 3 green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups cooked rice (white long-grain or brown rice works; for a shortcut, use two 8.8-ounce pouches of ready-to-serve rice)
- 3-4 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the sesame oil and canola oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until evenly browned. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken pieces.
Set Aside the Chicken:
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet with a slotted spoon, leaving the oils and any remaining juices behind. Place the chicken on a plate and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the frozen peas and carrots along with the sliced green onions. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Add Garlic and Scramble the Eggs:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs, stirring as needed until fully cooked.
Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, then add the cooked rice. Drizzle with soy sauce and add salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to ensure everything is well-mixed and heated through.
Storage Tips:
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. When reheating, do so gently to preserve flavor and texture.
- Can I use leftover rice for fried rice?
Absolutely! In fact, leftover rice is perfect for fried rice. It keeps the grains separate and avoids the mushiness that can happen with fresh rice. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chill it for 30 minutes to mimic that leftover texture!
- What kind of rice works best for fried rice?
Long-grain white rice is your best bet for fried rice, but brown rice works too if you’re looking for something heartier. The key is to let the rice cool before frying it so it doesn’t get soggy in the pan.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a major time-saver! Just chop it up and toss it in with the rice and veggies when you’re ready. It’s an easy way to get that delicious chicken flavor without the extra cooking time.
- How do I make this spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, try adding some chopped fresh chili or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also toss in a bit of sriracha or chili flakes to give it an extra kick.
- Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?
Definitely! Customize your fried rice with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, corn, peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and sauté them before adding the rice for a perfectly balanced dish.
