Ah, Chinese Chicken Fried Rice! This dish holds a special place in my heart—and my stomach. I’ve always loved how it’s a brilliant way to use leftover rice and transform it into something extraordinary. I remember the first time I made it during a sleepover with friends in high school. We rummaged through the fridge, and I was determined to whip up a delicious meal. As we sat around the table laughing and chatting while devouring this tantalizing dish, I realized I had created a tradition that would carry on through the years.
What makes this fried rice truly unique is the combination of textures and flavors. You’ve got juicy pieces of chicken, crisp veggies, and the unmistakable scent of garlic and soy sauce wafting through the air. It’s like a party in my mouth! Plus, it feels so satisfying to make it from scratch. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
What’s in Chinese Chicken Fried Rice?
– Cooked Rice: Ideally, use day-old rice—it’s dryer and won’t get mushy when stir-fried. I always make extra rice on purpose so I can have this dish on hand!
– Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless is best for quick cooking. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry. Shredded works like a charm!
– Vegetables: My favorites are peas, carrots, and green onions. They add color, crunch, and nutrients to the dish. Fresh or frozen, whatever suits your pantry!
– Eggs: These add richness and help bind everything together. You can’t have fried rice without scrambled eggs!
– Soy Sauce: The key flavoring agent, of course! I like low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced.
– Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced, they bring a wonderful aromatic note to the dish.
– Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle for a nutty finish. Trust me; it makes all the difference!
Is Chinese Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
Absolutely! Well, in moderation. Fried rice can be a balanced meal when packed with veggies and lean protein.
– Chicken: This lean protein helps keep you satisfied without weighing you down.
– Veggies: I love that we’re sneaking in healthy greens! Peas and carrots add fiber and vitamins.
– Eggs: A great source of protein and essential nutrients.
But, let’s keep it real—there are some possible downsides. Fried rice can be high in sodium due to soy sauce, so it’s essential to watch your portions or opt for low-sodium versions if that’s a concern. And, while I love the flavor of sesame oil, it’s still a fat, so just a small amount will do.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced chicken breast
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas and diced carrots)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium, if preferred)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
**Servings:** This recipe serves 4.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Fried Rice?
1. **Prep the Ingredients:** If you haven’t done so already, chop your chicken and veggies. Make sure everything is ready to go—stir-frying is quick!
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil (you can use vegetable oil) and cook the diced chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Season it with a little salt and pepper. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. **Scramble the Eggs:** In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until they’re just set, then remove them and set aside with the chicken.
4. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Throw in the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. **Mix It Up:** Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce and toss everything until the rice is coated and heated through.
6. **Add the Good Stuff:** Now, toss in the cooked chicken, scrambled eggs, mixed veggies, and sliced green onions. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through—only about 2-3 minutes!
7. **Finishing Touch:** Drizzle with sesame oil, give it one last stir, and take it off the heat.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Dish it up and watch as your family and friends dig in with smiles on their faces!
Variety is the Spice of Life!
Feel free to mix things up! You could swap the chicken for shrimp or beef, or make it completely vegetarian by adding tofu. I’ve also played around with different sauces, adding a splash of oyster sauce or a touch of chili paste for some heat. Want a bit of crunch? Toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews right before serving. And don’t forget—leftovers (if there are any) are amazing the next day!
I genuinely hope you give this Chinese Chicken Fried Rice a try. It’s a fun, easy dish to prepare that’s ideal for any night of the week. Please let me know how it turns out for you, and whether you’ve made any fun variations! Happy cooking!
