Why opt for take-out when you can cook a delicious Chicken Fried Rice recipe right in your own kitchen?
Not only is it more economical, but as this guide on making healthier fried rice shows, homemade versions are often healthier and superior in taste.
Simple chicken fried rice is one of those timeless recipes that you’ll come back to time and time again. (Especially since you can put it ready in just 30 hours or so.)
We’ve found it to be one of the few meals that the entire family can reach an agreement on. It’s tasty, satisfying and can be made into excellent leftovers.
However, it is rare to see that happen at our home.
The Secret to Chicken Fried Rice
The key to making fried rice is to make sure that it’s cool while you’re cooking. It’s best to cook it in the evening prior is the best option to allow it to cool to a complete temperature in your refrigerator.
If you’re trying to get it done in a hurry put your frozen food in the freezer till it’s cool. If possible cook it in over night and then refrigerate.
Another option, however in the event that you aren’t feeling like cooking rice is to buy already-cooked rice that comes in a box. It’s very effective.
Sprinkle a few drops of soy sauce over the chicken for a little extra flavor while cooking it. (You could also try sesame sauce or teriyaki sauce.)
You could even marinate the chicken prior to cooking.
Many people love adding some sesame oil to their rice towards the final stage. It gives it a distinct Asian taste that is sure to please.
You could also add a bit of chili paste or red pepper to add some spice.
Remember that you could substitute the chicken for shrimp or ham, or even pork. You can also leave it out completely in the event that you’re looking to find vegetarian alternatives.
Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
You are able to make alterations of this dish, naturally. However, here are the most essential items you’ll require:
- Butter. Make sure to use real butter to give vegetables and rice the best flavor possible.
- White rice cooked. Be aware that you want it cold!
- Veggies. I prefer an assortment of white and green onions, as well as frozen sweet peas in my Fried rice. You can also add water chestnuts, kale or whatever else you’d like to add.
- Eggs. They are a great source of protein and texture, as well as flavor and much more.
- Garlic powder. Feel free to use freshly minced garlic if you like.
- Soy sauce. I use the traditional soy sauce, however you can also use low-sodium sauce in case you prefer.
- Boneless breast of chicken. The chicken should be completely cooked and then cut into smaller pieces. Do not start with chicken that is raw. There won’t be enough time to cook properly.
- Add salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to meet your taste.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
It will take you under 30 minutes put this recipe together. Take these actions to make it happen:
1. Saute the vegetables. The butter should be melted in a pan on medium temperature. Then, add the vegetables (except the onions that are green) and cook them until they’re soft.
2. Incorporate eggs. Move the sauteed vegetables onto an end of pan and add the eggs you beat to the opposite side.
Make sure to mash the eggs until they’re completely set. After that, mix the eggs with the vegetables.
3. Include the flavoring add-ins. Add the soy sauce and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
4. Incorporate the rice and chicken. After that, add the cooked chicken and rice. Mix well, and cook until the chicken and rice are cooked to the desired temperature.
5. Garnish. Then, top it with the green onions. Season by adding salt and chili. After that, take it off the stove Serve, and then take a bite to
Tips for Making Fried Rice
Here are a few suggestions to be aware of:
- Use cold rice that is cold. I’ve already mentioned this however it is worth noting. The rice should be cooked ahead of time, and allow it to cool completely before adding it to the recipe.
- Add or take out vegetables depending on your preference. The vegetables listed here are just my favorite. You are able to add as little (or as many) as you want.
- Use genuine butter. It’s a lot more flavorful than margarine or oils.
- Let the rice get a little brown at the bottom. It should sit for a few minutes between stirring. The rice’s bottom will start to brown and give you a wonderful crisp texture.
- Prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Get everything chopped and weighed prior to cooking. Cooking stir fry is fast and requires only a short amount of time between each dish.
Easy Fried Rice Variations
Fried rice is a wildly adaptable dish that is extremely versatile. It is possible to make many variations, and have another dozen to try.
Here are a few of the most well-known variants, however:
- Kimchi rice fried:Unless you’ve tried it and you’re not aware of the amount of flavor that the kimchi flavor adds to rice. It’s incredible.
- Vegetarian fried rice. You can remove the chicken.
- Pork/beef/shrimp/etc. fried rice. Switch the meat out for something else you enjoy more than chicken. There are endless options to choose from.
- No-rice fried rice. It seems absurd, doesn’t it? However, you can actually create a recipe which doesn’t contain rice! Just use quinoa instead.
- Brown rice fried. Brown rice tastes equally good as white rice in a recipe for fried rice.
- Sweet rice fried. You can also add canned pineapples for an incredibly sweet and savory taste.
What should you prepare with Fried Rice
Fried rice, specifically chicken-fried rice, is an entire meal by itself. But, if you prefer to cut out your chicken, this is a great food item.
Can You Freeze Chicken Fried Rice?
If you’re working on meal planning this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and then frozen into Ziploc bags.
When you’re ready for it, just take it out of the freezer, defrost and place it in the pan for 5-10 minutes!
It’s an easy and quick meal anytime or night.
Properly stored, as outlined in this storage guide for fried rice, it can last for three months or more in the fridge.
