Name: Savory Chicken Fried Rice in Just 20 Minutes Flat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Oil (Consider using peanut, vegetable, or canola for the best flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Whisk lightly before cooking for optimal texture.); 1 pound Chicken Breast (Slice finely for quick cooking.); 3 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced will provide the best taste.); 1 medium Onion (Chop finely for even distribution.); 4 slices Bacon (Lean it out by trimming excess fat.); 2 tablespoons Chinese Cooking Wine (Shaoxing) (Infuses rich flavor.); 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (Can substitute with a blend of fish sauce and hoisin.); 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce (Avoid dark soy sauce for this recipe.); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (Optional for an aromatic touch.); 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper (Optional; introduces warmth.); 1 medium Carrot (Peel and dice into small pieces.); 1 cup Frozen Corn (Fresh corn works great too!); 1 cup Frozen Peas (No cooking prep needed.); 2 stalks Green Onions (Slice finely for garnish.); 4 cups Cooked White Rice (Day-old rice is best for texture.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I glanced at the clock, I realized dinner was just 20 minutes away—and that’s when the idea hit me: Chicken Fried Rice! This simple but satisfying meal comes together in a flash, making it the perfect solution for any weeknight hustle. Forget about greasy takeout; you can whip up a delicious blend of seasoned chicken, vibrant veggies, and crispy bacon right at home. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also shines both as a standalone main course or a delightful side. With fluffy grains of rice coated in savory sauce and a touch of freshness from green onions, it’s bound to become a family favorite. What will you add to personalize your Chicken Fried Rice tonight?

Why Is This Chicken Fried Rice Special?

Quick and Easy: Prepare a wholesome meal in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or those unexpected cravings.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with seasoned chicken, crisp vegetables, and smoky bacon, reminiscent of your favorite takeout without the guilt.
Versatile Dish: Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or a side with dishes like Corn Chicken Rice, this recipe adapts beautifully.
Healthy Freshness: Customize with seasonal veggies or switch proteins, tailoring the dish to your family’s preferences.
Impressive Presentation: Vibrant colors, fluffy rice, and delightful textures make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests or family alike!
Embrace homemade goodness with this Chicken Fried Rice, and say goodbye to boring fast food!

Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients

• Everything you need to create this quick and delicious meal.

For the Cooking Base

Oil – Cooking medium; consider using peanut, vegetable, or canola for the best flavor.
Eggs – Adds fluffiness and richness; whisk lightly before cooking for optimal texture.
Chicken Breast – The primary protein; slice finely for quick cooking, or swap for tofu or shrimp if desired.
Garlic – Essential flavor base; freshly minced will provide the best taste.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even distribution in the dish.

For the Flavor Boost

Bacon – Brings savory depth; lean it out by trimming excess fat, or use ham as a substitute.
Chinese Cooking Wine (Shaoxing) – Infuses rich flavor; can be replaced with Mirin or dry sherry, but don’t skip it!
Oyster Sauce – Elevates umami; can substitute with a blend of fish sauce and hoisin if needed.
Light Soy Sauce – Adds necessary saltiness; avoid dark soy sauce for this recipe.
Sesame Oil – Optional, but it adds an aromatic touch to your dish.
White Pepper – Optional; introduces warmth and a hint of spiciness.

For the Vegetables

Carrot – Adds color and crunch; peel and dice into small pieces for even cooking.
Frozen Corn – Brings sweetness and texture; fresh corn works great too!
Frozen Peas – Adds a pop of color and sweet flavor; no cooking prep needed—fresh can be used as well.
Green Onions – For freshness and garnish; slice finely to sprinkle on top for a beautiful finish.

For the Main Component

Cooked White Rice – The key to this dish’s texture; day-old rice is best as it will be dry and crumbly, preventing mushiness.

Whip up this Chicken Fried Rice and experience the joy of homemade flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and Chinese cooking wine to create a flavor-packed sauce. Take part of this mixture and use it to marinate the finely sliced chicken breast for about 10 minutes. This will enhance the meat’s flavor and tenderness, ensuring delicious Chicken Fried Rice.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the lightly whisked eggs, and scramble them just until they are set, taking about 1-2 minutes. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside to maintain their fluffy texture, which will perfect your Chicken Fried Rice.

Step 3: Sauté the Bacon
Increase the heat to high and add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in the bacon pieces, cooking until they are light golden and crispy, roughly 3-4 minutes. The rendered fat will enrich the flavors, making your Chicken Fried Rice irresistibly savory.

Step 4: Add Aromatics
Once the bacon is cooked, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This step is key for infusing your Chicken Fried Rice with a wonderful aroma.

Step 5: Incorporate Veggies
Add the diced carrot, frozen corn, and frozen peas into the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to heat through and combine with the bacon and aromatics. The colorful veggies will enhance the visual appeal of your Chicken Fried Rice.

Step 6: Add the Chicken
Now, incorporate the marinated chicken into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through. This step ensures that the chicken blends well with the other ingredients in your Chicken Fried Rice.

Step 7: Combine Rice and Sauce
Add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet, breaking apart any clumps. Pour in the remaining sauce mixture and stir everything together, cooking for about 1.5 minutes. This allows the rice to soak up the flavors and ensures an even distribution of the delicious sauce in your Chicken Fried Rice.

Step 8: Finish Off
Finally, gently fold the scrambled eggs and finely sliced green onions into the skillet. Toss everything together for another minute to warm through and combine. Your Chicken Fried Rice is now vibrant and ready to serve—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will love!

Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Rice

Day-Old Rice: Always use day-old, cold rice for the best texture; fresh rice can turn mushy and clump together during cooking.
Avoid Overcooking Eggs: Scramble the eggs lightly and remove them before adding other ingredients; this keeps them fluffy for your Chicken Fried Rice.
Customized Veggies: Feel free to experiment with seasonal or leftover vegetables; this dish is adaptable and can be tailored to your family’s preferences.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: The marinade and sauces are crucial for flavor; skipping or substituting can lead to a bland Chicken Fried Rice.
Watch the Heat: Cook on high heat to achieve that lovely “wok hei” flavor; just ensure to stir frequently to avoid burning.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Fried Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables, whisk the eggs, and even marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors. Additionally, keep your day-old rice ready to go; simply refrigerate it, ensuring it remains dry for ideal texture when cooked. When you’re ready to whip up dinner, just sauté the bacon, add the marinated chicken, and combine everything with the prepped ingredients in the skillet. Your Chicken Fried Rice will turn out just as delicious and fresh, minimizing your weeknight cooking time while ensuring a satisfying meal that your family will love!

What to Serve with House Special Chicken Fried Rice?

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with delightful accompaniments that make your meal even more satisfying and memorable!

Beef and Broccoli: Tender beef stir-fried with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, this classic pairs beautifully for a filling dinner.
Egg Rolls: Crispy on the outside and packed with fresh veggies, these make a perfect crunchy bite alongside your Chicken Fried Rice.
Hot and Sour Soup: The zesty and spicy flavors of this soup create a refreshing balance, enhancing your dining experience with complementary tastes.
Sweet and Sour Chicken: This dish adds a fruity punch to your meal, creating a delightful contrast to the savory chicken fried rice.
Sesame Noodles: Cold, tangy sesame noodles sprinkled with sesame seeds offer a unique flavor profile that pairs excellently with your rice.
Mango Salad: Fresh and vibrant, a mango salad featuring crispy greens and a zesty dressing adds a lightness to your meal that’s refreshing and satisfying.
Chun Wan Tea: A warm cup of this fragrant tea offers a soothing finish, perfect to sip while enjoying the rich flavors of your Chicken Fried Rice.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 2 months. Flatten the bags to save space and allow for quicker thawing.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture.

Make-Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep; simply prepare in advance, store, and heat up on busy nights for a quick, satisfying meal.

Chicken Fried Rice Variations to Explore

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delicious Chicken Fried Rice to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Protein Swap: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile and texture.
Bacon Upgrade: Replace bacon with ham or even diced spam for a heartier bite. This change brings a new twist to your dish!
Veggie Fusion: Amp up the nutrition by adding bell peppers, broccoli, or even zucchini; these veggies not only add color but also enhance the flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha for those who crave a bit of heat in their meal.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil as a finishing touch; they infuse freshness and vibrant flavors into your Chicken Fried Rice.
Nutritional Twist: Go low-carb by swapping rice for cauliflower rice; it’s a fantastic way to lighten up this classic dish while keeping all the flavor.
Sweet Touch: Add some pineapple chunks for a touch of tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
Savory Intensity: Give your sauce a flavor boost with a splash of hoisin sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil, enriching your fried rice with an extra layer of umami.

These variations make it easy to personalize your Chicken Fried Rice and delight everyone around the table! For more thrilling ideas, consider pairing it with something like Crispy Southern Fried Chicken for an indulgent meal or savor it alongside the delightful Oven Chicken Rice for a fulfilling spread. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice should I use for Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! It’s best to use day-old cooked rice; this allows it to dry out a bit, making it less sticky and preventing mushiness when frying. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry for about 30 minutes before using it.

How long can I store leftover Chicken Fried Rice in the fridge?
You can store leftover Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Chicken Fried Rice?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fried Rice! Portion it out into airtight freezer bags, laying them flat to save space. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture.

What if my Chicken Fried Rice is too dry?
If your Chicken Fried Rice turns out too dry, don’t worry! You can add a tablespoon of water, chicken broth, or soy sauce while reheating. Stir everything well to combine, and it should improve the moisture and flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Fried Rice?
Very much! This recipe is not gluten-free due to soy sauce and oyster sauce. For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap these for tamari and a homemade substitute, respectively. Additionally, you can easily replace the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood variation.

How can I customize my Chicken Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! You can customize your Chicken Fried Rice by adding different veggies, such as bell peppers or broccoli, or even tossing in some chili sauce for a kick! Feel free to experiment with proteins as well; shrimp, pork, or even leftover turkey work beautifully.