Ah, quick and easy chicken fried rice! What a gem of a recipe to have in your culinary arsenal. It’s one of those dishes that makes me feel like a superstar chef, even on my busiest days. You know, the kind of meal you whip up in no time and it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
I can’t count the number of times I’ve turned to this recipe after a busy day, especially when I’m staring at leftover rice from the night before. There’s something so comforting about fried rice – it’s like a canvas where you can throw in all your favorite ingredients and the result is magic! Plus, it always reminds me of those cozy family dinners where there was a little competition over who could mispronounce “fried rice” the funniest. Today, I’m sharing my go-to version, which is quick, simple, and irresistibly delicious!
What’s in Quick And Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
Cooked Jasmine Rice: Ideally, this is best made with day-old rice that’s been stored in the fridge. This helps prevent mushiness while stir-frying. I recommend using jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma!
Cooked Chicken: Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. Just make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Frozen Peas: These little green gems add a pop of color and sweetness. Plus, they’re super convenient since you can just grab them right from the freezer!
Carrots: Diced carrots bring a lovely crunch and sweetness to the dish. They cook quickly, so they’re great for this speedy recipe!
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and a mild onion flavor. They’re also perfect for garnishing!
Eggs: These provide some great protein and creaminess. I love the way they bind everything together beautifully in the fry.
Soy Sauce: A must-have for adding that classic savory flavor to your fried rice. Low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier alternative if you’re watching your salt intake.
Vegetable Oil: Essential for stir-frying, it helps everything cook evenly without sticking.
Sesame Oil (optional): Just a drizzle of this oil at the end adds a nutty aroma that takes the dish to another level. Totally worth it!
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste. Just a pinch or two will do the trick!
Is Quick And Easy Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about whether this dish is a friend or foe to your health. First off, the base of this fried rice is made from jasmine rice, which is a good source of carbohydrates for energy. Paired with chicken, you’re getting a solid hit of protein! The colorful carrots and peas not only add flavor but also pack in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Talk about a win-win!
On the flip side, if you’re mindful of your sodium intake, keep an eye on the amount of soy sauce you use, especially if you’re opting for regular soy sauce. You can also consider using a low-sodium variety to cut down on the salt.
Overall, I’d say this dish strikes a nice balance – it’s comforting and fulfilling while still being relatively healthy, especially with those vibrant veggies thrown in!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup carrots, diced
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 eggs
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Serves:** 4
How to Make Quick And Easy Chicken Fried Rice?
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble until fully cooked, then add the diced carrots and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking any clumps, and mix well with the eggs and carrots.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen peas, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, mixing thoroughly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped green onions and stir to combine.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy your Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice!
Fried Rice Fun Facts and Variations
Okay, now that you’ve mastered the basics, here are a few fun tips and variations to keep things exciting:
– Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
– Add some spices, like minced garlic or ginger, at the start for an extra kick of flavor!
– Leftover veggies? Toss them in! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can all make delightful additions.
– Not a fan of soy sauce? Try a splash of teriyaki sauce or even a little Hoisin for a twist!
– Serve your fried rice with a side of sweet and sour sauce or even some chili sauce for a bit of zing.
I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience waiting to be enjoyed. Please share with me how your chicken fried rice turns out, and don’t forget to have fun while cooking. Happy cooking, my foodie friends!
