If you’ve ever craved that perfect takeout-style dinner but wanted a dish you could whip up quickly at home, this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy rice that’s just the right amount of crispy, bringing incredible comfort with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a busy weeknight crowd or just treating yourself, this dish blends simplicity and flavor beautifully to satisfy those fried rice cravings in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that irresistible combination of textures and flavors. From the protein-packed chicken to the colorful peas and carrots, every component adds something special to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Ideal for stir-frying and keeping everything from sticking to the pan while adding subtle richness.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Adds a fluffy, silky texture and extra protein to the dish.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced: The star protein that offers tenderness and heartiness with every bite.
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled): Ensures perfect fried rice texture without clumping or mushiness.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Adds vibrant color, sweetness, and a tender bite to contrast the rice.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Brings a fresh, slightly pungent crunch that brightens the dish.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides savory umami depth, essential for authentic fried rice flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and richness for an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Delivers a fragrant nutty aroma that’s signature to Asian-inspired dishes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances flavors perfectly and brings out the best in every ingredient.
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them gently until just cooked through. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside—this step creates little pockets of silkiness that will blend beautifully later on.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and toss in the diced chicken breast. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns lightly browned and is cooked through. This ensures juicy, flavorful bites that anchor the dish perfectly.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan and add the frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies are tender but still retain a little bite—this contrast in texture is what makes this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe so delightful.
Step 4: Combine the Rice and Sauces
Add the chilled, cooked rice to the pan, breaking apart any clumps with your spatula. Pour in the soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and the fragrant sesame oil. Toss everything well to ensure every grain is coated evenly and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. This lets the rice get just slightly crisp around the edges, creating that classic fried rice texture.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Green Onions
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and sprinkle in the sliced green onions. Mix everything thoroughly to blend those vibrant onion bites and fluffy egg pockets with the savory chicken and rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and get ready to dive in.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a few toasted sesame seeds on top adds a beautiful finishing touch. A drizzle of sriracha or a few chili flakes can bring a welcomed spicy kick if that’s your vibe, elevating the dish from simple to sensational.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe with light, refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or steamed bok choy perfectly balances the meal. For extra indulgence, dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy-ginger provide delightful flavor contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your fried rice in individual bowls crowned with an over-easy fried egg for a restaurant-style presentation. Or, hollow out a pineapple half, spoon in the fried rice, and impress guests with a tropical flair that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken fried rice stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the rice fluffy and flavorful without becoming soggy.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Portion the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating, preserving those tasty layers without sacrificing texture.
Reheating
Reheat your Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of oil to revive the crispiness. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot—but the stove method retains the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just note it may take a little longer to crisp up and the texture will be heartier.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Definitely. Shrimp, tofu, or even leftover pork make excellent alternatives, allowing you to customize the dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Why is day-old rice recommended for this recipe?
Day-old rice is drier and less sticky compared to freshly cooked rice, allowing it to fry up nicely without becoming mushy or clumpy—key for perfect fried rice texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Adding sriracha sauce, chili flakes, or even diced fresh chilies during cooking brings heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance to make it just right.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet umami punch but is optional. If you prefer a vegetarian or lighter version, simply leave it out and rely on soy sauce and sesame oil for flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like home with every bite—effortlessly delicious and perfect for any night of the week. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try; once you nail the basics, it’s endlessly adaptable, comforting, and unbelievably satisfying. Your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender diced chicken, scrambled eggs, frozen peas and carrots, and day-old white rice, it’s cooked in a skillet with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for that authentic takeout flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is both satisfying and versatile, allowing substitutions like shrimp or tofu for variation.
Ingredients
Protein and Eggs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
Vegetables
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
Rice and Sauces
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the chicken: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
- Sauté vegetables: Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Add the frozen peas and carrots to the empty space and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the rice and sauces: Add the cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir in the soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss all the ingredients together and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and develop a slight crispness.
- Combine eggs and green onions: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan along with the sliced green onions. Mix everything evenly and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve the chicken fried rice immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Use cold, day-old rice for best texture; fresh rice can be too moist and cause clumping.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu to suit your dietary preferences.
- Add sriracha sauce or chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
