Ever wondered how to make a classic Chinese chicken fried rice at home?
This easy recipe will show you how.
You will learn to make delicious chicken fried rice in your kitchen. Impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.
This chicken fried rice recipe is special. It combines tender chicken, fragrant veggies, and fluffy rice for a complete meal.
It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Ready to make the ultimate chicken fried rice?
Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Fried Rice
Making the best chicken fried rice needs the right mix of ingredients. The rice is the base, and the chicken adds protein. The colorful vegetables bring it all together, making it a dish to enjoy.
Best Rice Types for Fried Rice
The rice is the heart of fried rice. Long-grain rice, like jasmine rice or basmati rice, is best. It’s light and fluffy, making the rice separate well when stir-fried.
Protein and Vegetable Selection
Chicken is a top choice for fried rice, but you can also use shrimp, beef, or tofu. For veggies, carrots, peas, onions, and green onions are great. They add color, texture, and flavor.
Key Seasonings and Sauces
The secret to tasty chicken fried rice is in the seasonings and sauces. You will need soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a bit of rice vinegar or lime juice. These ingredients make the dish savory, aromatic, and balanced.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Long-grain rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati) | 3 cups, cooked and cooled |
| Chicken, diced | 1 lb (450g) |
| Carrots, diced | 1 cup |
| Peas | 1/2 cup |
| Onion, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Green onions, sliced | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 teaspoon |
| Rice vinegar or lime juice | 1 tablespoon |
The key to a perfect chicken fried rice is using the right type of rice and balancing the flavors with the perfect blend of seasonings and sauces.
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready to make a delicious chicken fried rice dish at home! This easy recipe will show you how to do it, from starting to finishing. You’ll need just 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Soon, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy.
First, collect all the needed ingredients: cooked rice, chicken, frozen peas and carrots, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add some oil and sauté the onion and garlic until they smell good.
Then, add the chicken and cook until it’s lightly browned. Next, add the frozen peas and carrots. Keep cooking until they’re tender. Now, add the chilled rice to the pan and break up any clumps with a spatula.
Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything until the rice is coated and heated evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more soy sauce or a pinch of salt if you need to.
FAQ
What is the best type of rice to use for chicken fried rice?
Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice are the top picks for chicken fried rice. They offer the right texture and stickiness. This makes the dish taste and feel authentic.
Can I use regular cooked rice or does it have to be day-old rice?
You can use fresh rice, but day-old rice is better. It’s drier and less likely to make the dish mushy or clumpy.
What are some good protein and vegetable options to include in chicken fried rice?
You can add chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu as protein. For veggies, try peas, carrots, onions, bell peppers, and bean sprouts. Choose colorful, crunchy veggies for the best flavor.
What are the essential seasonings and sauces for chicken fried rice?
Soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and white pepper are key. Rice vinegar or oyster sauce can also boost the taste.
How long does it take to make chicken fried rice?
It takes about 30 minutes to make chicken fried rice. Prep takes 10 minutes, and cooking is 20 minutes.
Can I make chicken fried rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep chicken fried rice parts early. Cook rice, chop veggies, and cook chicken ahead. Then, stir-fry it all together when you’re ready to eat.
Is chicken fried rice suitable for special diets?
Chicken fried rice can fit many diets. For gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. For low-carb, try riced cauliflower instead of rice. Vegans and vegetarians can use tofu or plant-based proteins.