Smoky, savory, and vibrant. Finely sliced poultry and salty bacon toss together with golden eggs and crisp vegetables in a high-heat sear. This Chicken Fried Rice reminds me of weekend lunches in Burbank where James helps me prep the ingredients so we can eat in minutes. It is the type of meal that provides immediate comfort while using up those extra grains from last night's dinner. Making a Healthy Fried Rice at home gives you total control over the flavors and quality of the ingredients.
Why This Chicken Fried Rice Is Worth Trying
The primary benefit of this Chicken Fried Rice recipe is its incredible speed, going from prep to plate in less than thirty minutes. Using day-old rice is the real secret here, as it ensures the grains remain distinct and pick up a beautiful Crispy Fried Rice texture during the sauté. I find that the addition of smoky bacon adds a layer of depth that most takeout versions are missing. My son Ethan always asks for extra peas because he loves how they pop against the savory sauce. This Best Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a reliable way to clean out the vegetable drawer while keeping the whole family happy.
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What Goes Into This Recipe
Gathering these items is simple, and most are likely already in your pantry or freezer. Using finely sliced breast meat ensures it cooks in tandem with the vegetables for perfect timing.
Scroll to the recipe card for ingredients and step-by-step directions.
Main Ingredients
- Cooked white rice - day-old grains are essential for a non-mushy result.
- Chicken breast - sliced small for quick searing and tender bites.
- Bacon - provides a smoky fat base that seasons the entire skillet.
- Eggs - scrambled until soft to add richness and color.
- Frozen peas and corn - adds sweetness and vibrant pops of texture.
- Soy sauce and Oyster sauce - create the foundational umami flavor for the glaze.
- Garlic and Onion - the aromatic base that gives the dish its soul.
Custom Additions
You can add a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick or some toasted cashews for extra crunch. Including a dash of sesame oil in the final toss enhances the aroma of this Chinese Fried Rice Recipe.
Follow These Steps
The high heat of the wok ensures everything cooks fast while maintaining a fresh, seared flavor. Following these steps in order keeps the meat juicy and the grains perfectly separated.
Marinate meat
Mix the sauce and pour a small amount over the poultry to let it sit for ten minutes. This brief rest allows the salt and wine to penetrate the fibers so the meat stays flavorful during the high-heat cook.
Scramble eggs
Heat the oil and cook the whisked eggs until they are set but still look a touch wet. Removing them early ensures they remain soft and tender once they are folded back into the Fried Rice Recipe Instructions later.
Fry bacon
Increase the heat and sauté the bacon with onions and garlic until the fat melts.
How do I keep the rice from sticking? Ensuring the skillet is very hot before adding the grains creates a Crispy Fried Rice exterior that releases easily from the pan.
Sear chicken
Add the vegetables and the marinated poultry, stirring quickly until the pink color disappears. Using a high temperature sears the outside of the meat instantly, locking in the juices for a tender result.
Toss grains
Pour in the rice and the remaining sauce, stirring constantly to ensure every grain is coated. The constant movement prevents the bottom from burning while allowing the flavors of the Hibachi Fried Rice to meld together.
Garnish dish
Fold the eggs and green onions back into the mix for a final, quick toss. Serving immediately preserves the crispness of the vegetables and the vibrant aroma of the fresh scallions.
Aliana's Top Tip
The secret to the best homemade takeout is managing the moisture levels and heat of your pan. Chicken Fried Rice requires a hot surface to prevent the grains from steaming.
Trim excess bacon fat → it prevents the dish from becoming greasy → the final rice feels light.
Use cold rice → the grains are firmer and less sticky → you achieve a restaurant-quality separation.
Don't crowd the pan → it keeps the temperature high → the ingredients sear rather than boil.
Prep everything first → the cooking happens very quickly → you won't burn the garlic while chopping.
Use a high-smoke point oil → it handles the wok heat without burning → the flavor stays clean.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Flavor Variations
You can easily swap the poultry for shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein profile. If you want a lower-carb version, trying a cauliflower base still works well with this Chinese Fried Rice Recipe. Adding a spoonful of pineapple can transform this into a tropical-style meal that Ethan loves. Many Chicken Rice Recipes Easy can be adapted by changing the vegetable mix to include bell peppers or snap peas.
Storage Solutions
This meal stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days when kept in an airtight container. To maintain the best texture, reheat it in a hot skillet with a tiny splash of water to steam the grains back to life. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the Chicken And Rice Ideas feel a bit rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this in large bowls with a side of steamed dumplings or a simple cucumber salad. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or extra green onions on top gives it a professional look. James usually adds a side of spicy kimchi to his Fried Rice Meals Dinners for an extra fermented crunch.
Chicken Fried Rice FAQs
Why is my fried rice mushy?
Mushy rice is usually the result of using freshly cooked, warm grains which contain too much moisture. For the Best Fried Rice Recipe, always use cold, day-old rice that has had time to dry out in the refrigerator, allowing the grains to fry individually.
Can I make this without a wok?
Absolutely, a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet works perfectly well. The key is to use a pan that can hold heat effectively so the Chicken Rice Recipes Easy can achieve that signature seared flavor without dropping in temperature.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don't have oyster sauce, a mixture of soy sauce with a pinch of brown sugar can work in a pinch. However, the oyster sauce provides a specific thickness and salty-sweet depth that is characteristic of an authentic Chinese Fried Rice Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe contains soy sauce and oyster sauce which typically contain gluten. To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute tamari for the soy sauce and use a certified gluten-free oyster sauce to keep the Fried Rice Meals Dinners safe.
Hungry for More
This dish, Chicken Fried Rice, is a staple for our weeknight routine because it is so versatile and satisfying. It falls perfectly into our Dinner category when you need something fast.
Gave this recipe your own spin? Share it on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I can't wait to see your take on it!
Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and toss two teaspoons over the sliced poultry to marinate.
- Scramble the whisked eggs in a hot oiled skillet until they are just set but still slightly moist.
- Sauté the bacon, onion, and garlic together over high heat until the bacon becomes light and golden.
- Toss in the vegetables and marinated poultry, cooking quickly until the meat changes from pink to white.
- Add the rice and remaining sauce to the skillet, stirring constantly until the grains are evenly coated and hot.
- Fold in the cooked eggs and green onions briefly to distribute them evenly before serving the dish immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
Pairing
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