If you have ever craved a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from your favorite takeout place but made right at home, then this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s packed with flavorful, tender ground chicken, bright vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice all tossed in a savory blend of soy and oyster sauces. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and satisfying results that deliver a delightful mix of textures and tastes in every single bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with something homemade yet easy, this dish brings joy and great flavor to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, easy to find, and every single one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, color, and texture in this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled): Chilled rice prevents clumping and creates that classic fried rice texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: A lean, tender protein that soaks up all the seasonings beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For stir-frying, it provides a neutral base to cook the ingredients evenly.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed: Brings color, sweetness, and a tender bite to every spoonful.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Adds silkiness and protein, making the dish more filling.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: The essential umami seasoning that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: A touch of sweetness and deep flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Just a small drizzle gives a toasty, nutty finish.
- 2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that pops with color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Chicken
Start by heating a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat with one tablespoon of vegetable oil. When it’s hot, add the ground chicken, breaking it apart using a wooden spoon. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the chicken’s natural flavor. Once done, transfer the chicken out of the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pan, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them together until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the rest of the ingredients in your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
Step 3: Add Peas and Carrots
Next, stir in the thawed peas and carrots. Toss everything together and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant. This adds pops of sweetness and color, making the dish lively and balanced.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan, creating a space for the beaten eggs on the other side. Pour them in and let them begin to set before gently scrambling them until fully cooked. The eggs add richness and a soft texture that pairs perfectly with the other components.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Rice, and Sauces
Return the cooked ground chicken to the pan and mix it well with the eggs and vegetables. Then add the chilled jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula to ensure every grain fries evenly. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the mixture, stirring continuously for 3 to 4 minutes until everything is heated through and coated with the delicious sauces.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding a bit more salt or soy sauce. Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions on top for freshness and color. Give it one last toss, and it’s ready to serve piping hot.
How to Serve Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions are the classic garnish, adding a crisp bite and fresh aroma that contrasts the savory fried rice. For extra flair, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and nuttiness. A wedge of lime on the side can brighten the flavors with a quick squeeze just before eating.
Side Dishes
This dish can be a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli can provide a refreshing balance. If you want to elevate your meal, serve alongside egg rolls or a light soup like hot and sour for a restaurant-style experience at home.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, mold the fried rice into small ramekins before plating and gently invert them onto plates for a neat, domed presentation. You can also serve this dish inside hollowed-out bell peppers or lettuce cups to add a fun interactive element. A drizzle of spicy sriracha or a dollop of chili garlic sauce on the side can amp up the excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this fried rice freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen fried rice can last up to 2 months without losing too much quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to help prevent sticking and bring back that freshly cooked texture. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works just fine, though you might find the texture a bit nuttier and chewier. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled properly to prevent clumping when frying.
Is ground chicken a healthy choice for fried rice?
Yes, ground chicken is leaner than many other meats, making this recipe a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground chicken and replace oysters sauce with a vegetarian-friendly sauce or extra soy sauce. Tofu can also be a great protein substitute.
Why does the recipe call for chilled rice?
Chilled rice has less moisture, which prevents the grains from sticking together and turning mushy during stir-frying, giving you that perfect fried rice texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Yes, you can cook it ahead, then reheat just before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made larger to feed many. Just keep it covered and warm if serving immediately.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a homemade Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that brings together simple ingredients into a flavorful, comforting dish. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, which makes it the perfect recipe to keep in your regular rotation. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do—it just might become your favorite fried rice dish too!
Print
Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful ground chicken fried rice recipe featuring tender ground chicken, vibrant peas and carrots, fluffy scrambled eggs, and savory soy and oyster sauces. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner using chilled jasmine rice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pan and cook it while breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil, then the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the thawed peas and carrots to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
- Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the cleared side. Let the eggs set slightly, then scramble gently until fully cooked.
- Combine Chicken and Veggies: Return the cooked ground chicken to the pan, mixing it thoroughly with the vegetables and scrambled eggs.
- Add Rice: Add the chilled jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season with Sauces: Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly coated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the fried rice and add more salt or soy sauce to your preference for seasoning.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the fried rice, toss once more, and serve hot immediately.
Notes
- Using chilled or day-old jasmine rice prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy and helps achieve a better texture.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or pork if preferred.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of fish sauce or a pinch of white pepper.
- Make sure to cook the eggs gently to keep them fluffy within the fried rice.
- If you want a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use tofu or extra vegetables instead.
