Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner idea? This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is the ultimate solution. Packed with juicy chicken, crispy rice, and vibrant vegetables, this better-than-takeout dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Learn how to make the best homemade chicken fried rice with this step-by-step guide!

Ingredients

Rice

• 1 cup uncooked white long grain rice (see notes)
• 2 cups chicken broth

Sauce

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon honey (or substitute brown sugar)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger

Stir Fry

• 1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or substitute olive or canola oil)
• ¾ lb. boneless skinless chicken breast (about 1 medium breast)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 eggs (whisked very well)
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
• ¾ cup frozen peas
• ¾ cup frozen carrots
• 3-4 green onions (diced)

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce and Marinate the Chicken

1. Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Dice the chicken into ½-inch pieces. Place in a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the sauce mixture. Set aside to marinate.

Cook the Rice

1. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and ensure it is submerged in the liquid.
2. Bring the mixture back to a boil, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer (medium-low). Let it steam for 15 minutes.
3. Check the rice: if the liquid is absorbed, it’s done. If not, steam for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Spread the cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate to cool completely. This step ensures the rice will fry up crispy.

Scramble the Eggs

1. Melt the butter in an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the whisked eggs and cook until scrambled and just set. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Stir Fry

1. Heat the oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the marinated chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until seared and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Lower the heat to medium and add the white wine. Use a silicone spatula to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the peas and carrots (no need to thaw) and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the chilled rice and the remaining sauce. Increase heat to medium-high and toss continuously for about 3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the sauce and brown slightly.
7. Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the cooked chicken, scrambled eggs, and green onions. Toss to combine and heat through. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights with simple ingredients and steps.
• Customizable: Adjust spices, protein, and vegetables to suit your taste.
• Better than Takeout: Enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal right at home.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully.

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Tips

• Chill the Rice: Ensure the rice is completely cooled before frying to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Use a Wide Skillet: A large skillet provides more surface area for frying, ensuring even cooking.
• Prep Ingredients: Have all ingredients ready before starting the stir fry for a smooth cooking process.
• Taste and Adjust: Adjust the sauce to your taste—add more soy sauce for saltiness or hot sauce for heat.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork.
• Vegetable Options: Add bell peppers, corn, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and chicken broth.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use extra vegetables or tofu as a substitute.

Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice works perfectly for fried rice.

What can I use instead of white wine?
Substitute white wine with chicken broth or water.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve hot as a main dish or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired sides like egg rolls or dumplings.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or additional green onions for extra flavor.
• Pair with a light, crisp white wine or iced green tea for a refreshing meal.