If you have ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and packed full of flavor, then this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, fragrant garlic and ginger, and perfectly cooked rice all coming together in a sizzling pan. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal right at home. The beauty of this dish is how simple ingredients transform into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe plays a vital role in creating an unforgettable balance of taste, texture, and color. From the juicy chicken cubes to the vibrant vegetables and the subtle depths added by sesame oil and soy sauce, every element is essential to crafting this dish’s charm.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Using diced chicken ensures quick cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- Cooked rice: Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and prevents clumping, making the texture perfect for frying.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs add a creamy, silky component while boosting protein and richness.
- Frozen peas and carrots: These bring a lovely pop of sweetness and color without extra prep time.
- Soy sauce: This salty umami boost is crucial for that authentic fried rice flavor.
- Sesame oil: A little drizzle adds a nutty fragrance that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
- Garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that infuse the rice with warmth and depth.
- Green onions: These fresh, crisp onions finish the dish with a bright oniony punch.
- Vegetable oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking without overwhelming flavors.
- Bell pepper or other veggies: Optional additions that bring extra crunch and flavor diversity.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken into small, uniform cubes to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly. Finely chop the green onions and garlic so they release maximum flavor during cooking. If you have day-old rice, gently break up any clumps to allow each grain to fry evenly, creating that perfect texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken and cook it until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside – this keeps the pieces tender and prevents overcooking.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Crack the eggs and scramble them quickly until fully cooked but still moist. Take them out and set aside with the chicken. These eggs will add richness and a wonderful soft texture amidst the rice and vegetables.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Back in the hot skillet, toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the peas, carrots, and any additional veggies you prefer, stir-frying for 2 to 3 minutes until tender but still bright and crisp. This step is where the dish gets its vibrant color and fresh bite.
Step 5: Combine and Flavor
Now it’s time to add the rice to the skillet. Break up any stubborn clumps and stir-fry everything together for 2 to 3 minutes so the rice gets warmed through and slightly toasted. Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan, mixing them in thoroughly. Finally, pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, adjusting the amounts to your taste. Stir everything well and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes to marry all the flavors perfectly. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish and a burst of color.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your fried rice with fresh green onions is a classic choice that uplifts the dish with its zesty freshness and crunch. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or add a few slices of fresh chili for an extra kick and a lovely visual contrast.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe with dishes like steamed dumplings, hot and sour soup, or a simple cucumber salad. These sides add refreshing or bold flavors to complement the savory richness of the fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fried rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or pineapple halves for a tropical vibe that looks as delightful as it tastes. You can also shape it into individual mounds using a ring mold on each plate for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making for quick and delicious next-day meals when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to distribute heat evenly. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating helps keep the rice moist and flavorful, restoring that freshly-cooked appeal.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or even tofu make excellent substitutes and offer delicious variations to the classic Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
Why is day-old rice recommended for fried rice?
Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy and sticky when stir-fried, giving you perfect separate grains every time.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or use tofu for protein, while keeping all other flavors intact for a tasty vegetarian fried rice.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative with additions like corn, bean sprouts, snap peas, or mushrooms to enhance texture and flavor in your fried rice.
How much soy sauce should I use?
Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your personal taste; you can always add more but it’s best to balance it carefully to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is truly a weeknight hero that never fails to impress. Its balance of flavors and textures along with the simple cooking process makes it a meal you’ll want to return to time and time again. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a new favorite to share with your friends and family!
Print
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A flavorful and easy Chinese chicken fried rice recipe that combines tender diced chicken, scrambled eggs, and colorful vegetables stir-fried with soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious, satisfying meal. Perfect for using day-old rice to achieve the best texture and packed with vibrant flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, diced into small cubes
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen carrots (diced)
- 1/4 cup bell pepper (diced, or any other vegetables of choice)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
Staples & Oils
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for best texture)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Dice the chicken into small cubes, chop the green onions and garlic finely. If using day-old rice, gently break it up to separate the grains for better texture during cooking.
- 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, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Scramble the Eggs: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked, then remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Stir-fry the Veggies: Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add peas, carrots, bell pepper, and any other veggies chosen. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry the rice for 2-3 minutes to heat through evenly and absorb flavors.
- Add the Chicken and Eggs: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs into the skillet with the rice and vegetables, mixing them thoroughly.
- Season and Finish: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil according to taste. Stir everything together to combine well and cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions over the fried rice, toss well, and serve hot.
Notes
- For best texture, use day-old cooked rice which is drier and prevents clumping.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control saltiness and flavor intensity.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms for variety.
- Use high heat when stir-frying to get a nice slightly crisp texture without overcooking.
- Chicken thighs provide more flavor and juiciness, but chicken breast works well too.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chopped chili or chili sauce during stir-frying.
