Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family, look no further than my delightful Griddle Chicken Fried Rice! Full of savory flavors, vibrant veggies, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that never gets old.
I have fond memories of making fried rice with friends during lazy weekends. We’d gather in the kitchen, chit-chatting and cooking up a storm, and somehow, the laughter and good vibes made everything taste a hundred times better. Plus, there’s just something special about cooking everything on a griddle – it always feels so dynamic and fun! This recipe perfectly captures that spirit, so let’s jump right in!
What’s in Griddle Chicken Fried Rice?
Cooked Rice: For the best texture, I highly recommend using day-old rice! It’s drier and helps to give the dish a fantastic chewiness. If you don’t have any on hand, you can cook fresh rice but try to chill it first!
Chicken Breast: For protein, we’ll be using 1 pound of diced chicken breast. I like to purchase organic if possible, as it tends to be more flavorful and nutritious.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient adds that umami kick that makes fried rice so irresistible. I usually opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness a bit better.
Sesame Oil (or Vegetable Oil): The nutty flavor of sesame oil adds a lovely depth to the dish. But if you’re out of it, vegetable oil works perfectly fine too!
Eggs: Two eggs are gonna inject some creaminess and extra protein into our meal. Trust me, don’t skip them!
Mixed Vegetables: I love using a colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn for both nutrition and aesthetics. Fresh or frozen – you can’t go wrong here!
Red Bell Pepper: This ingredient brings sweetness and crunch. Plus, it’s such a vibrant color!
Green Onions: These are a must for garnish and flavor. They add a fresh bite that elevates the entire dish.
Garlic: I mean, who doesn’t love garlic? It’s the aroma that draws everyone into the kitchen!
Salt and Pepper: Always at the ready to season to your liking.
Is Griddle Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
Absolutely! Fried rice might sometimes get a bad rap, but when made at home, it’s a well-rounded meal.
Chicken Breast: Lean protein is always a great choice for a healthy meal. It’s low in fat and full of nutrients that support muscle growth.
Vegetables: The assorted mixed veggies add fiber along with essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a colorful and nutritious option.
That said, it’s best to enjoy this dish in moderation due to the soy sauce and the cooking oils. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for that low-sodium soy sauce, and you can even reduce the oil a bit for a lighter version!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4-5 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Additional soy sauce for serving
*Serves 4*
How to Make Griddle Chicken Fried Rice?
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil on the griddle over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the griddle and set aside.
2. **Scramble the Eggs**: In the same area of the griddle, add a little more oil if necessary, and crack the eggs directly onto the griddle. Scramble them until fully cooked, then remove and chop into smaller pieces.
3. **Sauté the Vegetables**: Add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil to the griddle. Toss in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
4. **Combine Ingredients**: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the griddle. Add the cooked rice. Pour the soy sauce over everything, mixing thoroughly while frying for about 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and combined.
5. **Finish and Serve**: Stir in the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce if desired. Remove from the griddle and serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy your Chicken Fried Rice!
Kitchen Wizardry: Tips and Variations
– Feel free to swap in whatever proteins or vegetables you have on hand. Shrimp, beef, or tofu can also be fabulous substitutes!
– Want a spicy kick? Toss in some sriracha or chili flakes before serving!
– Serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
I hope you give this Griddle Chicken Fried Rice a try! It’s a wonderful way to make something hearty and delicious out of leftovers, and trust me, it’s even better when shared with friends or family. If you do give it a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking!
