There’s something simply irresistible about the aroma of Best Chicken Fried Rice wafting through the kitchen. Imagine the savory scent of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables all sizzling together. The visuals are even better — bright green peas, vibrant orange carrots, and eggs getting all cozy with that delightful medley. It’s a dish that not only warms your belly but also fills your home with the kind of fragrant goodness that beckons family and friends to gather and savor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Best Chicken Fried Rice
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Best Chicken Fried Rice

I fondly remember nights spent huddled around the dinner table, eagerly anticipating the first bite of my mom’s chicken fried rice. It wasn’t just food; it was comfort. Each forkful would bring back memories of laughter and love, and that’s what I hope to recreate with my version of the Best Chicken Fried Rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your weekend guests, this recipe is here to shine. Let’s get cooking and fill your kitchen with heartwarming flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: From prep to plate in just 45 minutes, making this a perfect weeknight meal.
Irresistible Flavor: Savory chicken, rich butter, and a sprinkle of sesame oil create a taste explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful veggies and fluffy rice make it not just delicious but a feast for the eyes!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a flavorful snack anytime.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets with low-sodium soy sauce and other substitutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sesame Oil (1 ½ teaspoons): This oil adds a nutty flavor that’s essential for authentic fried rice. Look for high-quality sesame oil for the best taste.
Neutral Oil (4 teaspoons): Use oils like avocado or canola for frying as they have high smoke points. This is key for achieving that crispy texture.
Chicken Breasts (¾ pound, cut into small pieces): Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect as it cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well. You can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (5 tablespoons): Balances flavors without making everything too salty. You can also use tamari for gluten-free needs or coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness that elevates the dish. Consider salted butter for extra flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens up the flavors and balances the dish. Fresh is key; bottled won’t deliver the same zest.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing the flavors of chicken and rice. Adjust according to your palate.
Diced White Onion (½ cup): A flavor base for the fried rice; onion becomes sweet when cooked and adds depth.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup): Convenient and colorful, providing nutrition and texture. Feel free to use fresh veggies if you prefer.
Large Eggs (2): Scrambled into the rice, they provide a creamy element and balanced protein.
Cooked Rice (4 cups, cooled): Day-old rice is ideal as it’s drier and prevents mushiness. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool faster.
Sesame Seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a final touch of crunch and a hint of nuttiness for garnish.

How to Make Best Chicken Fried Rice

Heat Oils: In a large skillet or wok, over medium-high heat, warm 1 ½ teaspoons of sesame oil along with 1 tablespoon of neutral oil until hot and shimmering. This step is critical; heating the oils properly ensures that they create a beautiful sizzle when the chicken is added.

Cook Chicken: Add the small chicken pieces to the skillet and let them sear without stirring for about a minute. Once they start to turn golden, stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of butter, and 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Season lightly with salt and pepper and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink, around 1 to 3 minutes. Try to stir only once or twice, allowing for that nice browning!

Set Aside Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a medium bowl and set aside for later. Wiping out the skillet isn’t just a convenience; it helps avoid a mix of flavors when bringing everything together.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat another teaspoon of neutral oil. Add the diced onion and frozen vegetables, sautéing until the onions are almost translucent, about 3 minutes. The bright colors of the vegetables against the softening onions create an inviting sight.

Scramble Eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and crack in the eggs. Use your spatula to scramble them until they’re fully cooked, which will take about 1-2 minutes. The eggs should be fluffy with a vibrant yellow color, adding richness to the dish.

Add Rice & Butter: Introduce the cooled cooked rice to the skillet along with the 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir frequently and let it cook for about 5 minutes. You want each grain to feel fluffy and warm; don’t be afraid to really get in there with your spatula!

Add Flavors: Now that your rice is nicely heated, drizzle in the remaining 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir everything thoroughly, allowing it to cook for an additional minute. The rice should absorb the soy sauce, becoming beautifully seasoned while still retaining its individual texture.

Combine & Serve: Stir in the cooked chicken along with any salt and pepper needed to taste. Cook just until everything is combined and warmed through. Serve warm and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch. Enjoy the wonderful medley of flavors and the satisfaction that comes with a homemade meal!

Storing & Reheating

For any leftovers, cool the fried rice to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it! Package it in a vacuum-sealed bag or a freezer-friendly container to keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat in a skillet on medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Just a sprinkle of water as you reheat will help restore some moisture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid using fresh, hot rice to prevent mushiness. Patience is key; cooling is your friend!
When sautéing the chicken, don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to allow for that perfect sear.
Feel free to mix up the vegetables with your favorites, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
For a touch of heat, add a hint of red pepper flakes or hot sauce when combining the rice.
Consider making a larger batch and freezing for easy meals later; it’s a fantastic time saver!

The Best Chicken Fried Rice brings so many wonderful elements together: flavor, texture, and nostalgia all swirl into one delicious dish. With all the tips and techniques we’ve shared, I encourage you to experiment and find what combinations you love best.

When you make this dish, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating memories. So gather some loved ones, whip up this tasty fried rice, and enjoy every warm, savory bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! You can definitely use brown rice in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Ensure that it is cooked before adding it, similar to white rice. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as brown rice may take a bit longer to heat through.

What can I add for more flavor?

For extra flavor, consider adding garlic, ginger, or even a splash of rice vinegar. You could also try tossing in some green onions at the end for freshness or a dash of oyster sauce for a richer taste.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken for your favorite protein like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth to enhance the flavors. Make sure to use the vegetarian version of soy sauce as well.

How do I avoid soggy fried rice?

The key to avoiding soggy fried rice is to use rice that is cool to the touch. Day-old rice is often the best because it has dried out a bit. Additionally, make sure to stir-fry on high heat for that desired crispiness. Cooking in smaller batches can help maintain that perfect fry!

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