Chicken Fried Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

If you’re a fan of simple, yet mouthwatering dishes, Chicken Fried Rice is a recipe that you must try. After experimenting with different variations, I’ve found that this version strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture. 

Whether you’re craving a quick meal for yourself or something to impress guests, Chicken Fried Rice recipe is your answer. It’s easy, customizable, and, best of all, absolutely delicious. You can bring restaurant-style flavor home with our easy-to-follow to pair it with chicken curry recipe. Here’s how I make it – let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

• 250g Basmati Rice: The key to perfect fried rice is using long-grain rice, and basmati is ideal for its fluffy texture and aroma. Be sure to cook it al dente and let it cool to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• 1 tbsp Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower is ideal for cooking. It helps sauté the garlic and prevent it from burning.
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves (sliced): Garlic adds a lovely base of flavor. Slicing the garlic ensures it infuses the oil without overpowering the dish.

For the rest of the recipe:

• 2 tbsp Oil: Used to cook the chicken and vegetables; it adds richness.
• 6-7 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped): Freshly chopped garlic releases a stronger flavor that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
• 1 inch Ginger (finely chopped): Adds a zesty kick and pairs well with the garlic.
• 2-3 Chilies (finely chopped): Add more or less depending on your spice tolerance.
• Maggi Cube (Optional): A flavor enhancer that adds depth to the dish.
• 2 Eggs: Scrambled eggs add a creamy texture and are essential for that classic fried rice flavor.
• 150-200g Chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and makes the dish more filling.
• ½ tbsp Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for seasoning.
• ½ tbsp Salt (or according to taste): Season to taste.

Vegetables (Optional) – finely chopped

 These vegetables can be adjusted to your liking. Try a mix of:

• Spring onion whites
• Carrots
• Cabbage
• Capsicum (Bell peppers)
• 1 ½ tbsp Soya Sauce: The main source of umami and saltiness.
• 1 tbsp Red Chilli Sauce: For a bit of heat and tanginess.
• ½ tbsp Vinegar (Optional): Adds a hint of acidity to balance the richness.
• Salt (if needed): Taste and adjust accordingly.

Garnish:

• Scallions for garnishing: A light topping that adds freshness and a mild oniony flavor.

Note: This recipe serves 4-5 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a small gathering.

Variations – Customize Your Chicken Fried Rice

The great thing about Chicken Fried Rice is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can modify this dish:

• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so feel free to enjoy it if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Vegetarian Version: You can replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian take.
• Add-Ins: For extra flavor, try adding a dash of sesame oil, oyster sauce, or hoisin sauce. You could also throw in some cooked shrimp for a seafood variation.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a lower-carb option while maintaining a satisfying texture.

You can also explore more recipe ideas by browsing our full collection of chicken recipes.

Cooking Time for Chicken Fried Rice

This recipe is quick to make, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you just need something tasty in a pinch!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Before you start, gather these essential items for a smooth cooking experience:

• Wok or Large Skillet: Used to cook all the ingredients in one pan for an even mix and high heat.
• Strainer: To rinse and drain the rice after cooking.
• Chopping Board and Knife: For chopping the garlic, ginger, chilies, and vegetables.
• Cooking Spoon: To stir and toss the rice mixture while frying.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice?

1. Prepare the Rice

The first step is to cook the rice. Bring water to a boil and add a bit of oil and sliced garlic. Let the garlic infuse the water before adding the rice. Cook until the rice is just done and then strain the water. Spread the rice out on a tray to cool completely. This step ensures the rice doesn’t stick together when frying later.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the rice cools, boil the chicken in salted water. Once cooked, shred it using a fork or your hands into bite-sized pieces. This gives the fried rice a hearty texture and makes it easy to mix into the dish.

3. Scramble the Eggs

You have two options here: Either scramble the eggs directly in the wok, or you can make an omelette, chop it up, and add it later. I prefer to cook them separately and fold them in for more control over the texture.

4. Stir-Fry the Veggies and Aromatics

In a large wok or skillet, heat the oil and add the chopped ginger, garlic, and chilies. Let them sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become aromatic. Then, toss in your vegetables (carrots, capsicum, cabbage, or any mix you prefer) and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. This ensures they remain crisp-tender and vibrant.

5. Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the scrambled eggs, shredded chicken, and cooled rice to the pan. Toss well to mix everything evenly. Season with pepper and salt as per your taste.

6. Add the Sauces

Drizzle soy sauce, red chili sauce, and optional vinegar over the rice. Stir well to combine. These sauces bring the fried rice to life with savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.

7. Garnish and Serve

Top your fried rice with freshly chopped scallions and let it cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Once done, serve it hot!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

• Rice Texture: If you don’t have time to cool the rice before using it, use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be stickier and may not fry well.
• Customize the Spice Level: You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chilies or using mild chili sauce instead of a spicy one.
• Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Always use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powders for a more authentic taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, fry the rice in batches to avoid steaming it. You want the rice to fry up in a hot pan for that crispy texture.
• Add Protein: If you prefer, swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice?

Chicken Fried Rice can be served in several ways:

• As a Main Dish: This recipe is filling on its own, so it can easily stand as a complete meal.
• With a Side: You can serve it with a side of spring rolls, a simple salad, or a bowl of soup for a well-rounded meal.
• Presentation Tip: Serve it in a large bowl or plate and garnish with extra scallions or sesame seeds for an added pop of color.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Chicken Fried Rice:

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 10g

How to Store Chicken Fried Rice?

• Storing: Leftover Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the fried rice for up to 1 month. Just make sure it’s properly cooled before freezing.
• Reheating: Reheat the rice in a pan over medium heat with a splash of oil or water to prevent it from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time.
• Customizable: Add or remove ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of veggies, this dish is a healthier take on traditional fried rice.
• Flavors Galore: The soy and chili sauces infuse the rice with rich, bold flavors that make every bite exciting.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.

FAQs

Can I use any other type of rice for this recipe?

You can use jasmine rice or short-grain rice, but basmati rice works best due to its texture and aroma.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or just add extra vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian fried rice.

Is this recipe spicy?

It can be! You can adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of chilies and chili sauce used.

Can I add other sauces to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! You can experiment with oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or sesame oil for different flavor profiles.