There’s something truly delightful about the sound of sizzling garlic and ginger wafting through the kitchen, signaling a meal in the making. When the craving for Chinese takeout strikes, I often find myself reaching for this easy, comforting Chicken Fried Rice recipe. It offers all the flavors I love without the hassle of delivery. With tender marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy jasmine rice, this dish transforms leftover rice into a satisfying feast that the whole family will adore.
What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability; you can easily switch out proteins or toss in whatever fresh veggies are hanging out in the fridge. This makes it not only budget-friendly but a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Whip this up in just 20 minutes, and you’ll have a meal that rivals your favorite restaurant—minus the wait. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a delicious, homemade classic? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Chinese Chicken Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight solution for busy families.
Flavor-Packed: The harmony of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and vibrant veggies brings your taste buds to life with every bite.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap proteins to suit your preferences.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover jasmine rice means you can enjoy a gourmet meal without overspending.
Family Approval: Its delightful taste and comforting aroma will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Delicious Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Base
• Cooked Jasmine Rice – Use day-old rice for best texture and to prevent mushiness.
• Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs – Adds savory flavor; feel free to substitute with shrimp, pork, beef, or tofu for variety.
For the Vegetables
• Shallot – Finely chopped; this aromatic adds depth to your dish.
• Garlic – Minced to release maximum flavor and aroma.
• Carrot – Finely diced for quick cooking and a touch of sweetness.
• Frozen Peas – No need to thaw; they add a pop of color and texture.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – Used for stir-frying; any neutral oil works well.
• Eggs – Beaten and scrambled in the wok for added creaminess.
For the Sauce
• Regular Soy Sauce – The primary seasoning for saltiness; adjust to your taste.
• Shaoxing Cooking Wine – Adds a hint of fermented flavor; substitute with dry sherry if necessary.
• Cornstarch – Used in the marinade to keep the chicken tender.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Gives color and richness; extra regular soy sauce can be used if dark isn’t available.
• Sesame Oil – A small amount adds nuttiness and depth to the dish.
• Chicken Bouillon Powder – Intensifies the savory profile beyond regular soy sauce.
• White Pepper – Provides subtle heat; black pepper can be used as a substitute.
Take your dinner to the next level with this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
-
Marinate Chicken: Combine skinless boneless chicken thighs, cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing cooking wine in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
-
Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, mix regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken bouillon powder, and white pepper. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
-
Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add a splash more oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and chopped shallot, stir-frying for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Then add the diced carrots and frozen peas, cooking for another 10 seconds until they’re just tender.
-
Scramble Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok, crack the beaten eggs into the empty space, and scramble until cooked through. Mix the scrambled eggs into the veggie mixture.
-
Fry Rice: Add the leftover jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps. Toss everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the vegetables and eggs. Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
-
Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce around the edges of the rice and stir-fry until the rice is evenly coated and colorful, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chinese Chicken Fried Rice?
Transform your humble Chicken Fried Rice into a glorious feast with these delightful pairings that harmonize flavors and textures.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and crunchy side that adds a vibrant green color, balancing the richness of the fried rice perfectly.
- Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy sauce of this dish complements the savory notes of the fried rice, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Egg Drop Soup: This warm, comforting soup serves as a soothing appetizer, beautifully enhancing the overall Asian culinary experience.
- Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy tossed with garlic adds a fresh, crispy element, making each bite of your meal more refreshing.
- Crab Rangoon: These crispy, cream-cheese-filled dumplings add an indulgent touch, and their slight sweetness pairs wonderfully with the salty soy sauce in the rice.
- Spicy Szechuan Noodles: For those who like it hot, these noodles bring an extra kick, making your meal memorable and packed with flavor.
- Lychee Sorbet: Finish on a sweet note with this fruity sorbet, providing a cooling contrast that cleanses the palate after the umami-packed fried rice.
- Iced Green Tea: This light and refreshing drink complements the meal, offering a subtle sweetness that resonates beautifully with the dish.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A comforting dessert, its creaminess balances out the flavors of the chicken fried rice, rounding off your meal on a cheerful note.
Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
-
Use Day-Old Rice: It’s crucial to use day-old jasmine rice to prevent mushiness. Fresh rice can be dried in the freezer for about 60 minutes.
-
High Heat Required: Ensure your wok is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that coveted smoky flavor that elevates your chicken fried rice.
-
Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking in batches is key. If the wok is too full, your ingredients will steam instead of fry, losing that delightful texture.
-
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap proteins or add veggies; just be aware that different cooking times may require adjustments. Always aim for freshly cut vegetables to ensure even cooking.
-
Perfect Egg Scramble: For a smooth scramble, let the eggs cook undisturbed for a few seconds before stirring. This keeps their fluffy texture intact in your Chinese chicken fried rice.
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this recipe uniquely yours!
-
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu to cater to your taste buds. Each option adds a delicious flair to your fried rice.
-
Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Mixing in seasonal veggies enhances both flavor and texture.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a spoonful of sriracha or chili paste for a hearty kick! This twist is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
-
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh cilantro or green onions just before serving for a burst of freshness. These herbs elevate the overall dish, making it more aromatic.
-
Coconut Twist: Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a subtle, tropical flavor. This swap complements the savory ingredients beautifully, offering a unique taste.
-
Nuts for Crunch: Top your finished dish with toasted cashews or peanuts for added crunch. The contrast in texture really brings your fried rice to life.
-
Different Grains: Try substituting jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice for a healthful touch. These options give a nuttier flavor profile in your dish.
-
Eggless Option: For a vegan take, skip the eggs and replace with scrambled tofu, creating a fantastic texture while keeping it plant-based.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Keep leftover Chinese Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled fried rice in a resealable freezer bag or container. It can last up to 2 months; just remember to squeeze out excess air.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Chinese Chicken Fried Rice out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Chicken Fried Rice meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, as the flavors deepen the longer it sits. Additionally, chop all your vegetables and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the wok and stir-fry the marinated chicken, followed by the vegetables, eggs, and rice. This way, you’ll maintain the dish’s charm and achieve just as delicious results with minimal effort. Enjoy a homemade feast that’s ready to go when you need it!
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my Jasmine rice is the right texture?
Absolutely! For the best chicken fried rice, day-old jasmine rice is ideal as it has dried out and won’t be overly sticky. When fresh rice is used, it’s best to spread it on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about 60 minutes to dry it out a bit.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Chinese Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to keep it as fresh as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a wok for the best texture!
Can I freeze Chinese Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken fried rice to cool completely, then pack it into a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then stir-fry over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to restore its texture.
What can I do if my chicken fried rice turns out mushy?
Oops! If you find yourself with mushy fried rice, it’s often due to using fresh rice or overcrowding the wok. To prevent this, always use day-old rice for the best results. If you did use fresh rice, quickly spread it out to cool, then dry it in the freezer as mentioned earlier. For a future fix, try cooking in smaller batches to give everything room to fry nicely and avoid steaming.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This Chinese Chicken Fried Rice can easily be adjusted for dietary needs. If you have allergies, keep in mind that soy sauce contains wheat, but there are gluten-free alternatives readily available. Additionally, you can substitute proteins—feel free to use tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist. Just remember to check for personal allergies with any ingredients used!
Delicious Chinese Chicken Fried Rice to Spice Up Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine skinless boneless chicken thighs, cornstarch, soy sauce, and Shaoxing cooking wine in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a small bowl, mix regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken bouillon powder, and white pepper. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add a splash more oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and chopped shallot, stir-frying for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Then add the diced carrots and frozen peas, cooking for another 10 seconds until they’re just tender.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the wok, crack the beaten eggs into the empty space, and scramble until cooked through. Mix the scrambled eggs into the veggie mixture.
- Add the leftover jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps. Toss everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the vegetables and eggs. Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
- Pour the prepared sauce around the edges of the rice and stir-fry until the rice is evenly coated and colorful, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm.