Name: Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, jasmine or long-grain white); 2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb, cut into small pieces); 2 large eggs (scrambled); 1 cup assorted vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, fresh or frozen); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 green onions (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ginger (minced, optional); Salt (to taste); Black pepper (to taste)

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Want a quick, flavorful meal that’s better than takeout? This chicken fried rice recipe is an ideal choice. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, it’s a one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights or using leftovers. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Let’s dive into how to make it, why it’s so versatile, and tips to get it just right.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Chicken fried rice is a favorite for all the right reasons. It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and uses ingredients you likely already have. It’s an excellent way to transform leftover rice or veggies into a new meal, like this Benihana chicken fried rice. Curious about what makes it so special? It’s all about the balance of savory soy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice.

A Dish with Global Appeal

Fried rice began in China but is now a global favorite. This chicken and vegetable version is a go-to in many homes. It’s fast to make, suitable for novices and experts alike, and adaptable—use whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

Before you start, gather your ingredients. Using fresh, quality items ensures the best flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for four servings:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, jasmine or long-grain white rice works best)
2 chicken breasts (cut into small pieces)
2 large eggs (scrambled)
1 cup assorted vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, fresh or frozen)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 green onions (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (minced, optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Pro tip: Day-old rice is key because it’s drier and won’t clump when stir-fried. Newly cooked rice can be used if cooled and spread to dry for an hour.

Top-down view of chicken fried rice recipe ingredients on a white marble countertop — All the ingredients you need for a delicious chicken fried rice recipe.

Essential Tools for Perfect Fried Rice

No high-end gear is required, but having the proper tools helps a lot. Here’s what to use:

Wok or large skillet: A wok’s high sides are ideal for tossing ingredients over high heat.
Spatula: For stirring and scraping the pan.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping chicken and veggies.
Small bowl: To scramble eggs before cooking.

A non-stick skillet works if you don’t have a wok, but ensure it’s wide enough to spread ingredients evenly.

Step-by-Step Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Ready to cook? Follow these steps for a foolproof dish. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and keep the process simple.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Dice chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Mince garlic and ginger, chop green onions, and measure out vegetables. Scramble eggs in a bowl. Prepping all ingredients in advance keeps cooking seamless, since stir-frying is quick.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok on high heat. Add chicken pieces and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until completely cooked. Remove chicken and set aside. Cooking chicken separately keeps it juicy and prevents overcrowding the pan.

Diced chicken stir-frying in a wok with vegetable oil. — Stir-fry chicken pieces in a wok for juicy, flavorful results.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In the same wok, add a teaspoon of oil. Pour in scrambled eggs and cook, stirring gently, for 1–2 minutes until just set. Take out the eggs and place them with the chicken. Don’t overcook—soft eggs add great texture.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add garlic, ginger (optional), and vegetables. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until vegetables are tender yet crisp. The garlic and ginger give a fragrant base that elevates the dish.

Step 5: Add Rice and Seasonings

Place cooked rice in the wok, breaking apart clumps with a spatula. Mix in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to enhance taste. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, ensuring rice is evenly coated. High heat helps create that slightly crispy texture.

Cooked rice stir-fried with soy sauce and sesame oil in a wok. — Adding soy sauce and sesame oil to rice for rich flavor.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return chicken and eggs to the wok. Add green onions and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes to heat through. Check the flavor and add extra soy sauce or salt if desired. Your chicken fried rice is ready to enjoy!

Overhead view of chicken fried rice in a wok with vegetables and green onions. — The finished chicken fried rice, ready to serve from the wok.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice

Ready to elevate your fried rice game? Here are some expert tips:

Use cold rice: Day-old or chilled rice prevents mushiness.
Keep heat high: Stir-frying over high heat gives that authentic wok flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook ingredients in batches for even browning.
Add more oil if needed: A little extra oil keeps rice from sticking.
Experiment with add-ins: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or bean sprouts for variety.

These small tweaks make a big difference in texture and taste.

Why Use Day-Old Rice?

Ever wonder why restaurant fried rice is so fluffy? The secret is day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist, leading to clumpy fried rice. Letting rice sit in the fridge overnight dries it out, making it perfect for stir-frying. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to cool.

Customizing Your Chicken Fried Rice

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here’s how to customize it to your taste:

Protein swaps: Use shrimp, pork, or tofu instead of chicken.
Vegetarian version: Skip chicken and add more veggies like zucchini or broccoli.
Spicy kick: Add chili oil or red pepper flakes.
Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip extra salt.
Gluten-free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce.

Experiment with combinations to suit your tastes or dietary requirements.

Health Benefits of Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice can be a balanced meal when made thoughtfully. Chicken offers lean protein, and veggies contribute fiber and essential nutrients. Using brown rice boosts fiber content, though it may need longer cooking. To make it healthier:

Use less oil (opt for heart-healthy sesame oil).
Load up on veggies for extra nutrients.
Season with salt sparingly to control sodium.

A single serving (about 1.5 cups) typically has 300–400 calories, depending on oil and portion size, making it a satisfying yet light option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using wet rice: Fresh rice leads to a soggy dish.
Overcooking veggies: Keep them crisp for texture.
Skimping on seasoning: Soy sauce and sesame oil are key for flavor.
Low heat: Cook on high heat for that distinctive stir-fry texture.

Steer clear of these mistakes, and your fried rice will match your go-to takeout.

Pairing Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with chicken fried rice? Here are some ideas:

Appetizers: Egg rolls or spring rolls for a classic Asian-inspired combo.
Soup: Hot and sour or miso soup pairs well with the dish.
Drinks: Iced green tea or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Dessert: Mango sticky rice for a sweet finish.

These pairings make your meal feel like a restaurant experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chicken fried rice stores well, making it great for meal prep. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Storage: Place in a securely sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Store in portioned containers in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture, or reheat in a skillet with a teaspoon of oil for crispiness.

Always ensure leftovers are cooled quickly before storing to maintain safety.

The History of Fried Rice

Fried rice started in China over 1,500 years ago to repurpose leftover rice. It spread across Asia and beyond, with each region adding its own twist. Chicken fried rice, popular in American-Chinese cuisine, often includes soy sauce and scrambled eggs for a hearty, flavorful dish. Its worldwide appeal stems from its ease and adaptability.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Unlike some recipes that require hours of prep or hard-to-find ingredients, this chicken fried rice recipe is designed for real life. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and delivers bold flavors. The step-by-step guide ensures even beginners can succeed, while tips like using day-old rice guarantee professional results. It’s also adaptable to fit any flavor preference or dietary need.

Troubleshooting Your Fried Rice

Running into issues? Here’s how to fix common problems:

Soggy rice: Use less oil and ensure rice is cold before cooking.
Dull taste: Boost flavor with extra soy sauce or a touch of oyster sauce.
Sticky pan: Add more oil and keep the heat high.
Uneven cooking: Keep stirring and prepare in smaller portions.

These fixes will get your dish back on track.

Making It for a Crowd

Cooking for a party? Double the recipe and use a large wok or two skillets. Prep ingredients in advance to save time. Serve in a large bowl with extra green onions on top for a vibrant presentation. You can also set up a “build-your-own” station with add-ins like chili sauce or extra veggies.

FAQ: Your Chicken Fried Rice Questions Answered

Have questions about making the perfect chicken fried rice? Here are answers to some common queries to help you nail this recipe.

What is the secret to good fried rice?

The secret to great fried rice is using day-old, cold rice, as it’s drier and prevents a mushy texture. Cooking over high heat in a wok or large skillet ensures a slight crispiness, and ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and scrambled eggs add authentic flavor. For example, in this recipe, chilling rice overnight and stir-frying at high heat creates that restaurant-style texture.

What gives fried rice its flavor?

Fried rice gets its flavor from a mix of savory ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, which add umami and depth. Aromatics such as garlic, ginger, and green onions, along with seasoned chicken and scrambled eggs, enhance the taste. This recipe uses these elements plus optional spices like white pepper for a takeout-like flavor profile.

Is freshly cooked rice suitable for fried rice?

Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can make fried rice gummy. For best results, use day-old rice refrigerated overnight. If you must use fresh rice, spread it on a tray and chill it for 1–2 hours to dry it out, as suggested in this recipe’s tips for perfect texture.

What vegetables are best for chicken fried rice?

Classic vegetables for chicken fried rice include peas, carrots, and green onions, as used in this recipe, for color and crunch. Try adding bell peppers, bean sprouts, or broccoli for extra variety. Frozen or fresh veggies work well, but ensure they’re diced small and cooked until tender-crisp to complement the dish.

Final Thoughts

This chicken fried rice recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a go-to solution for busy nights, budget-friendly dinners, or impressing guests. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless variations, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again. Try it today and see why it’s a favorite in kitchens everywhere.