Delicious Chicken Fried Rice Recipe | Easy & Flavorful | Wow Mamma Kitchen

Chicken fried rice is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings into a satisfying meal. It’s a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side. Perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables, this recipe is not only delicious but also practical. In this article, we will provide a detailed, step-by-step guide to making a delicious chicken fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout.

Understanding Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a popular dish in many Asian cuisines, especially Chinese. It typically consists of rice stir-fried with chicken, vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. The key to a great chicken fried rice is using cold, day-old rice, which prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Additionally, the right balance of seasonings and ingredients ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Rice:

• 2 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 large chicken breast, diced into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, finely chopped)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook and Cool the Rice: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 cup of uncooked rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and then refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight.
2. Dice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and bell peppers).
4. Beat the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Oil in a Wok or Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the wok and stir-fry until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

1. Heat More Oil: In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Scramble the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the wok and cook, stirring frequently, until they are fully cooked and scrambled. Remove the scrambled eggs from the wok and set them aside with the cooked chicken.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the wok and sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the Mixed Vegetables: Add the finely chopped mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Stir-Fry

1. Add the Rice: Add the cooked, cooled rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
2. Season the Rice: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauces.
3. Add Chicken and Eggs: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the wok, mixing them thoroughly with the rice and vegetables.
4. Stir-Fry: Continue to stir-fry the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Transfer the chicken fried rice to a serving dish and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh and vibrant finish.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the chicken fried rice hot, either as a main dish or as a side to complement other Asian-inspired dishes.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice as it has a drier texture that prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate it to cool and dry out.
2. High Heat: Stir-frying over high heat helps to quickly cook the ingredients and develop a slight char, enhancing the overall flavor.
3. Prep Ingredients Before Cooking: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick process, and having everything ready will ensure smooth cooking.
4. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Common additions include corn, snap peas, and broccoli.
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity.

Variations and Additions

1. Spicy Fried Rice: Add a teaspoon of chili sauce or sriracha to the rice for a spicy kick.
2. Pineapple Fried Rice: Add small pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist.
3. Shrimp Fried Rice: Substitute or add shrimp along with the chicken for a seafood variation.
4. Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.
5. Peanut Sauce: Drizzle a little peanut sauce over the top for an added layer of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Chicken fried rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with various other dishes and accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat make a great appetizer.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light and comforting egg drop soup is a perfect starter to complement the fried rice.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A side of stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or snow peas adds freshness and balance.
4. Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables are a delicious addition.
5. Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy and sweet flavors of sweet and sour chicken pair well with the savory fried rice.

Conclusion

Delicious chicken fried rice is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vibrant vegetables in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice and ingredients or simply craving a homemade version of a takeout favorite, this chicken fried rice recipe is sure to impress. The flexibility of the dish allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

So gather your ingredients, heat up your wok, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make chicken fried rice that will become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and beautiful presentation, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Watch the Video Tutorial: Watch on YouTube

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FAQ’s

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or a fast meal.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or leftover proteins.
• Restaurant-Quality: Enjoy a takeout favorite made fresh at home.