My easy Chinese Chicken Fried Rice recipe delivers a tasty weeknight dinner in under 20 minutes. First, stir-fry diced chicken breast with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Next, push the chicken aside, scramble two eggs, then mix in cooked, chilled rice. Add peas, carrots, and scallions, then splash in sesame oil and oyster sauce. Stir until each grain turns golden and aromatic. Finally, season with salt, pepper, and a dash of chili if you like heat. Serve hot garnished with extra scallions. It ranks among the Best Chinese Fried Rice dishes for busy cooks. This straightforward, homemade Chinese Chicken Fried Rice satisfies cravings and makes leftovers disappear fast.
As someone who loves quick, delicious meals, Chinese Chicken Fried Rice has become my go-to weeknight dish. Not only does it come together in minutes, but it also captures authentic flavors with simple ingredients. First, I rely on leftover rice for that signature texture. Then I stir-fry tender chicken, veggies, and eggs in a hot wok, adding soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of oyster sauce for depth. Every scoop bursts with umami and comfort. Whether you know it as a Yakimeshi Recipe or simply the Best Fried Rice Recipe, this Chinese Special Fried Rice elevates home cooking. Let’s dive into this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Easy enough for cooks of any skill level.
Table of Contents
The Story & Inspiration Behind Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
A Personal Memory
Growing up, the scent of sizzling vegetables and soy sauce instantly reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen. Every Sunday, she’d toss leftover rice and diced chicken into her worn wok, creating a steaming platter of Chinese Chicken Fried Rice that felt like a warm hug. As a kid, I stood on a stool, mesmerized by dancing flames beneath the wok. She poured a dark glaze of soy and oyster sauce, then crowned the dish with bright green scallions. Even today, I recreate her recipe, blending nostalgia with fresh twists. Each bite of Chicken Fried Rice Chinese takes me back to those carefree afternoons and reminds me that cooking builds connections.
Why This Recipe Matters
This recipe matters because it turns simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing meal. Moreover, it proves that homemade Chinese Food doesn’t require takeout. Additionally, you can customize protein, veggies, and sauces to fit dietary needs. As a busy parent, I appreciate how easily this Quick Chinese Fried Rice adapts to what I have on hand. Furthermore, it doubles as meal prep, so no one wastes extra ingredients. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy it solo, this Special Fried Rice Recipe Chinese offers satisfaction and versatility. Ultimately, mastering this dish unlocks endless flavor possibilities for any home cook.
Ingredients & Instructions
Gather these simple ingredients before you begin cooking. Using day-old rice ensures a perfect, non-gummy texture. Meanwhile, fresh chicken and vegetables boost protein and color. Ready your wok or large skillet, and let’s start this easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season lightly, and stir-fry until golden, about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil. Then toss in garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Push aromatics to the side. Crack eggs into the wok and scramble quickly. Mix eggs with garlic and ginger.
- Stir in carrots and peas. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until vegetables soften.
- Return chicken to wok. Next, add chilled rice, breaking up clumps with your spatula.
- Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over rice. Stir thoroughly, ensuring even coating.
- Fold in green onions. Continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Finally, garnish with extra scallions and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
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Ingredients You Need for Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked white rice (day-old) | 3 cups |
| Chicken breast, diced | 1 pound |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Carrot, diced | ½ cup |
| Frozen peas | ½ cup |
| Green onions, sliced | 3 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tsp |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Once you’ve prepped ingredients, follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect Chinese Chicken Fried Rice. Remember to keep your heat high for that authentic wok-hei flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season lightly, and stir-fry until golden, about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil. Then toss in garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Push aromatics to the side. Crack eggs into the wok and scramble quickly. Mix eggs with garlic and ginger.
- Stir in carrots and peas. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until vegetables soften.
- Return chicken to wok. Next, add chilled rice, breaking up clumps with your spatula.
- Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over rice. Stir thoroughly, ensuring even coating.
- Fold in green onions. Continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Finally, garnish with extra scallions and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese Chicken Fried Rice immediately, or pack it for a satisfying lunch.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Smart Swaps & Variations
You can swap chicken for shrimp or diced pork, making this recipe versatile. For a plant-based twist, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, then use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. If you follow a low-carb lifestyle, replace rice with cauliflower rice and reduce sesame oil. For added heat, toss in chopped chili peppers or a dash of Sriracha. Moreover, you can mix in chopped pineapple for a sweet and savory contrast. As a budget-friendly option, use frozen mixed vegetables. Ultimately, this Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Easy allows countless customizations to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chinese Chicken Fried Rice alongside quick cucumber salad or steamed bok choy for a balanced meal. Meanwhile, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a lime wedge for brightness. You can meal-prep by portioning into airtight containers, storing in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions; reheat in a microwave or skillet until piping hot. Additionally, pair with egg drop soup or hot and sour soup. When you host game nights or potlucks, set out toppings like chopped peanuts, cilantro, or chili oil so guests can customize their bowls.
Health Benefits of Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice offers a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. First, chicken breast supplies lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. Then, peas and carrots add fiber, promoting healthy digestion and steady blood sugar levels. Moreover, garlic and ginger deliver anti-inflammatory properties and essential antioxidants. As a result, this homemade Chinese food blends nutrition with flavor. If you follow a balanced diet, control oil amounts and choose low-sodium soy sauce. For a keto adaptation, swap rice for cauliflower rice while keeping protein and veggies. Consequently, you enjoy a version of this dish that fits low-carb lifestyles. Additionally, eggs contribute essential vitamins like B12 and choline, benefiting brain health. Finally, by using simple, whole-food ingredients, this recipe avoids the additives and excess sodium often found in restaurant dishes. Thus, you nourish your body with a meal that feels indulgent yet remains mindful of health goals.
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice proves that you don’t need complicated techniques to enjoy restaurant-style flavors at home. By using simple ingredients, high heat, and a trusty wok, you transform day-old rice into a mouthwatering meal in under 20 minutes. Whether you crave a quick dinner or plan an easy meal prep, this recipe rises to the occasion. Plus, its adaptability means you can swap proteins, adjust veggies, or experiment with sauces to make it your own. I hope you feel empowered to try this Chicken Fried Rice Chinese recipe tonight. Ultimately, each forkful will remind you that cooking can be joyful, creative, and deeply satisfying. Let’s keep sharing these tasty moments together—and turn every meal into a chance to make memories around the table!
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FAQs About Chinese Chicken Fried Rice
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old?
While you can, day-old rice works best for texture. Fresh rice tends to clump, whereas chilled rice separates easily in the wok.
How long does leftover fried rice last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat until steaming hot.
What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh both work well. Thighs offer extra juiciness, while breast provides leaner protein.