This chicken fried rice dish is another hit with my family. I wasn’t surprised because they love any kind of fried rice I make, especially if they can take it to work for lunch the next day. I used the leftover meat from the rotisserie chicken I bought from Costco. It has been seasoned therefore it gives more flavor to the dish when mixed with the rice. This dish is the perfect one to make when you are pressed for time. In less than an hour, you have a simple yet delicious meal to enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

To make a truly great chicken fried rice, start with day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist, leading to a mushy texture. Spread your freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool before using it. This helps to dry it out a bit. Also, consider using a wok if you have one. The high sides help to toss the rice easily without spilling it everywhere. Make sure your pan is hot before adding any ingredients; this helps to sear the chicken and vegetables, adding flavor. Stir-frying quickly at high heat keeps everything crisp and prevents overcooking. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have a lot of ingredients, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Notes

While rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, feel free to customize your protein. Leftover grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work well in this dish. For veggies, the classic combination includes peas and carrots, but you can add whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, green onions, and broccoli are also great options. Soy sauce is a must for flavor, but consider adding a splash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma. If you like a little heat, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Fresh garlic and ginger bring another layer of flavor, so don’t skip those if you have them. The key is to balance flavors and textures, so taste as you go.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried rice can be served on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad or some steamed edamame for a refreshing contrast. If you like a bit of crunch, crispy spring rolls or egg rolls are a great addition. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a fried egg on top, sunny-side up. The runny yolk adds richness and elevates the dish. If you’re entertaining, consider offering a selection of sauces like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade garlic sauce on the side for guests to drizzle as they like. The versatility of chicken fried rice makes it suitable for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a fun gathering with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?

Leftover grilled chicken works great, or you can use shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a different protein. Just make sure to cook any raw proteins thoroughly before adding them to the rice.

How should I store leftover chicken fried rice?

Cool the fried rice to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this chicken fried rice ahead of time?

You can cook the rice a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it, and reheat it in a hot pan when you’re ready to fry it up.

What are some good serving suggestions?

Chicken fried rice pairs well with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with some soy sauce or sriracha on the side for added flavor.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making fried rice?

Using freshly cooked rice is a big no-no, as it can lead to mushy fried rice. Also, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients to get that nice sear and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Chicken Fried Rice

Liza A

Savor the comforting flavors of chicken fried rice, where tender chicken, fluffy eggs, and sweet peas blend perfectly with savory soy sauce for a quick meal. It's a tasty way to use leftover rice and a crowd-pleaser any night of the week.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

4 cups cold cooked rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 eggs lightly beaten
2 green onions sliced thinly
2 cups diced cooked chicken meat I used left-over store bought rotisserie chicken meat
1 cup frozen green peas
2 tablespoons liquid seasoning or soy sauce or to taste
Seasoning salt or salt and pepper

Instructions

Season the eggs with seasoning salt or salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or a large non- stick frying pan. Add the beaten eggs; pushing the set egg towards the center and tilting the pan to let the unset egg run to the edges. Cook until firm and then break up into large pieces. Transfer into a plate and set aside.
Using the same pan, swirl in the remaining tablespoon oil. Add the green onions and stir-fry for 20 seconds. Add the rice, stirring and breaking up any clumps.
Add the chicken, peas and chopped eggs. Stir-fry for couple of minutes or until the peas have been cooked through.
Add liquid seasonings or soy sauce. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

Keyword chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, fried rice, weeknight meal

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