When it comes to chicken fried rice, you've got options that can satisfy any craving. You might start with the classic version, perfect for using up leftovers, or opt for a spicy Thai twist to liven things up. If you prefer something sweeter, pineapple chicken fried rice could be just what you need. There's also a savory garlic butter variation that's hard to resist. But what if you want to create your own unique dish? Let's investigate these recipes and see how you can enhance your chicken fried rice game.
Classic Chicken Fried Rice
Classic Chicken Fried Rice is a beloved dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all stir-fried to perfection. This quick and easy recipe is great for using up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
With a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Push the chicken and vegetables to one side of the pan, then pour the beaten eggs into the empty space, scrambling them until fully cooked.
Once the eggs are done, add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together well. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated and combined.
Finally, toss in the chopped green onions, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor and texture, use cold, day-old rice, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as bell peppers, broccoli, or even shrimp for added protein. If you want a little kick, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Additionally, make sure to keep your heat high throughout the cooking process to achieve that characteristic smoky flavor known as "wok hei."
Spicy Thai Chicken Fried Rice
Spicy Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of Thai cuisine with the comforting essence of fried rice. This recipe features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a spicy kick from chili paste and fresh herbs.
Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch, this fried rice is bound to please anyone who loves a bit of heat in their food. With its colorful presentation and robust flavor profile, this dish will transport you straight to the streets of Thailand.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, stirring until fragrant.
Next, add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Incorporate the red bell pepper and frozen peas and carrots, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
Push the mixture to one side of the wok, then pour the beaten eggs on the other side, scrambling them until fully cooked. Mix everything together and add the cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce, fish sauce, and Thai chili paste, stirring to combine and guarantee the rice is heated through.
Finally, stir in the chopped green onions and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving with lime wedges on the side.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor and texture, use day-old rice, as it dries out a bit and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili paste, or even including fresh chopped chilies if you like it extra hot. You can also customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas, or swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful twist on the classic fried rice dish, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple. This dish not only offers a burst of flavor but also adds a tropical flair to your meal.
It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish to impress guests at a gathering. With its colorful ingredients and satisfying texture, this Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice will become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the diced chicken and cook until heated through, then toss in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps, and mix in the diced pineapple. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring everything together until well combined and heated through.
Finally, add the chopped green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with lime wedges if desired.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, use day-old rice as it tends to be drier and less sticky, which is ideal for fried rice.
Feel free to customize your dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to spice things up.
Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice with a side of fresh salad or spring rolls for a complete meal!
Garlic Butter Chicken Fried Rice
Garlic Butter Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of garlic and butter with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked rice and transform it into a satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of day.
With its rich taste and quick preparation, you'll find yourself making this dish again and again.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet or wok, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Push the garlic to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling them until fully cooked.
Add the cooked chicken and frozen vegetables, stirring to combine and heating through.
Next, add the cooked rice, remaining butter, soy sauce, and chopped green onions, mixing well until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly crispy.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use day-old rice as it tends to be drier and will fry better without becoming mushy.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, or by incorporating different proteins such as shrimp or tofu.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.
Enjoy garnishing with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor boost!
One-Pan Chicken Fried Rice
One-Pan Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful rice all cooked in one pan, making it not only delicious but also a breeze to clean up afterward.
With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a satisfying and wholesome dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Push the chicken to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables to the other side, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they're heated through.
Stir in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions to the pan, mixing everything together until well combined and heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Extra Tips:
Using day-old rice is key for achieving the best texture in your fried rice, as it helps to prevent mushiness.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as shrimp or tofu. If you prefer a little kick, consider adding some sriracha or chili paste for extra flavor.
Always verify your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients to achieve a nice sear and to keep everything from becoming too soggy.