Foolproof Chicken Fried Rice Recipe: Simple & Tasty Every Time

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that satisfy hunger without sacrificing flavor.

This easy chicken fried rice recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory goodness in under 30 minutes.

Tender chicken pieces mingle with fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Fragrant garlic and crisp vegetables add depth and excitement to every single bite.

Packed with protein and bursting with classic Asian-inspired seasonings, this dish comes together effortlessly in a single skillet.

Home cooks can whip up this restaurant-quality meal that feels both comforting and exotic.

One forkful promises to transport you straight to your favorite takeout experience, minus the extra calories and expense.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 440 kcal

Servings: 3

Ingredients Needed For Easy Chicken Fried Rice

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the dish, choose boneless skinless cuts for easy preparation.
• Eggs: Provides rich texture and extra protein, select fresh eggs with bright, firm yolks for best results.

• Onion: Adds aromatic base and subtle sweetness, opt for crisp white or yellow varieties.
• Carrots: Brings vibrant color and gentle crunch, select firm and bright orange carrots.
• Peas: Introduces sweet pop of flavor and additional nutrition, frozen peas work perfectly.
• Green Onions: Offers fresh, sharp garnish with light onion essence, choose bright green stalks with firm white bases.

• Vegetable Oil: Creates smooth cooking surface and prevents sticking, use neutral-flavored oils.
• Soy Sauce: Delivers umami depth and saltiness, choose low-sodium versions for better control.
• Sesame Oil: Provides nutty, rich undertone, use sparingly for concentrated flavor.
• Cooked Rice: Serves as hearty foundation, day-old rice works best for ideal texture.

Wok Tools For Easy Chicken Fried Rice

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for cooking and combining all ingredients with high-heat capabilities.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring rice, breaking up clumps, and mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Cutting board: Needed for dicing chicken, onions, and chopping green onions.
• Sharp knife: Crucial for precise ingredient preparation.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately add soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Mixing bowl: Used for beating eggs before scrambling.

Steps To Stir Fry Easy Chicken Fried Rice

• Chicken Sizzle

Start by heating a splash of oil in a sizzling hot pan. Toss in diced chicken pieces and let them dance until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Watch those pieces transform into juicy, flavorful morsels. Once cooked, set them aside on a waiting plate.

• Egg Magic

In the same pan where chicken just performed its magic, crack some eggs and swirl them around. Let them scramble softly, creating those lovely fluffy egg bits. Scoop them out and join the chicken on the sidelines.

• Veggie Celebration

Invite colorful vegetables into the pan. Let onions, peas, and carrots mingle and soften, releasing their delightful aromas. They’ll create a vibrant foundation for our rice masterpiece.

• Rice Harmony

Introduce cooked rice to this flavor party. Break up any stubborn clumps and let the rice get friendly with the vegetables. Allow everything to blend and warm through, creating a delicious base.

• Final Symphony

Reunite the chicken and eggs with the rice mixture. Drizzle in some soy sauce and sesame oil, letting each grain soak up those incredible flavors. Give everything a gentle toss so each bite is perfectly seasoned.

• Delicious Finale

Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a bright, crisp finish. Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

Flavor Add-Ins For Chicken Fried Rice

• Pro Meal Prep Shortcut: Cook rice a day ahead and refrigerate, as cold rice separates easily and prevents clumping during stir-frying, creating perfect texture every time.
• Low-Carb Rice Alternative: Swap traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version that maintains the delicious flavor profile while reducing calories.
• Protein Power Boost: Experiment with different proteins like shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken to keep the dish exciting and accommodate various dietary preferences.
• Veggie Expansion Technique: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or edamame to increase nutritional value and create more colorful, vibrant fried rice that feels fresh and exciting.
• Gluten-Free Modification: Replace standard soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe completely gluten-free while preserving the authentic Asian-inspired taste experience.

How To Serve Chicken Fried Rice Hot Off The Pan

• Flavor Fusion Plate: Pair this chicken fried rice with crispy egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal that delivers extra crunch and excitement.
• Protein Power-Up: Top the dish with additional grilled shrimp or sliced beef to create a more protein-rich dinner that satisfies hearty appetites and adds delicious variety.
• Freshness Boost: Serve alongside a light cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables to introduce a refreshing contrast that cuts through the rich, savory rice and provides a zesty palate cleanser.
• Spice Lover's Dream: Sprinkle some sriracha sauce or chili flakes on top for those who enjoy extra heat, allowing each person to customize their plate's spice level with a personal touch.

How To Store Chicken Fried Rice And Reheat Well

• Quick Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover chicken fried rice in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 34 hours to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Efficient Reheating Method: Warm refrigerated rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra oil to restore moisture and prevent dryness. Stir frequently for even heating.
• Freezer-Friendly Approach: Portion cooled fried rice into freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Smart Ingredient Separation: If preparing ahead, store cooked chicken, eggs, and rice separately to prevent sogginess. Combine ingredients just before serving or reheating for maximum freshness and crisp texture.

Savory Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

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Description

Homemade chicken fried rice delivers classic Asian comfort straight to kitchen tables. Quick ingredients and simple techniques help cooks create delicious restaurant-style meals without complicated steps.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 3 cups (450 g) cooked and chilled rice (day-old works best)
• 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
• ¼ cup (40 g) diced onion
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 3 tbsps soy sauce (or to taste)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsps vegetable oil (divided)

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Instructions

1. Protein Preparation: Sear diced chicken in a sizzling wok with vegetable oil over medium-high heat until golden-brown and thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Egg Integration: In the same wok, quickly scramble eggs until just set, creating soft, fluffy texture. Transfer to the plate with chicken.
3. Vegetable Infusion: Sauté diced onions, green peas, and carrots for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness.
4. Rice Transformation: Introduce pre-cooked rice to the vegetable base, breaking apart any clumps and ensuring even heating through continuous stirring for 2-3 minutes.
5. Flavor Fusion: Reincorporate chicken and scrambled eggs into the rice mixture. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil across the dish, gently tossing to distribute seasonings comprehensively and allow flavors to meld for 2 minutes.
6. Finishing Touch: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions, adding a vibrant pop of color and zesty flavor. Serve immediately while steaming hot.

Notes

• Optimize Chicken Quality: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring uniform dicing for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Prevent Rice Clumping: Use day-old cold rice or freshly cooked rice spread on a tray to cool and dry, reducing moisture and preventing sticky, mushy fried rice.
• Master Wok Temperature: Maintain high, consistent heat while stir-frying to achieve that signature wok hei flavor and prevent ingredients from becoming soggy or waterlogged.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap regular soy sauce for low-sodium or gluten-free alternatives, and replace chicken with tofu or additional vegetables for vegetarian/vegan adaptations.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg