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Chicken Fried Rice - A Quick, Satisfying Weeknight Favorite

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked, chilled rice (3 cups; day-old jasmine or long-grain works best)
  • Chicken (10–12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Vegetables: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 1/2 cup corn (optional), 1 small onion (diced), 2–3 green onions (sliced), 2–3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp fresh ginger (minced, optional)
  • Soy sauce (2–3 tbsp; low-sodium preferred)
  • Oyster sauce (1 tbsp; optional but adds depth)
  • Sesame oil (1 tsp)
  • Neutral cooking oil (2–3 tbsp; canola, avocado, or peanut)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Red pepper flakes or chili oil (optional, for heat)
  • Lime or rice vinegar (a squeeze or 1 tsp for brightness, optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the rice: If you’re cooking rice now, spread it on a tray to cool and dry for at least 30 minutes. Chilled rice from the day before is best. Break up any clumps with your fingers before cooking.
  2. Season the chicken: Toss diced chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and 1 tsp soy sauce. If you have time, let it sit 10 minutes for better flavor.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Adjust to taste—add a splash more soy for salt or a pinch of sugar for balance.
  4. Heat the pan: Use a large skillet or wok over medium-high to high heat. Add 1 tbsp oil and swirl to coat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  5. Cook the eggs: Pour in beaten eggs with a pinch of salt. Scramble quickly until just set. Transfer to a plate; they’ll go back in later.
  6. Sear the chicken: Add another 1 tbsp oil. Spread chicken in a single layer. Let it sear without moving for 1 minute, then stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned, 3–4 minutes. Remove to the plate with eggs.
  7. Stir-fry aromatics: Add a little more oil if needed. Toss in onion and cook 1–2 minutes until just translucent. Add garlic and ginger; stir 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let them burn.
  8. Add vegetables: Stir in peas, carrots, and corn if using. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp. Keep everything moving.
  9. Fry the rice: Add the chilled rice. Spread it out, press lightly, and let it sit 30–45 seconds to toast. Break up clumps and stir-fry 2–3 minutes until the grains are hot and separate.
  10. Season and combine: Return chicken and eggs to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes more. Add green onions and a squeeze of lime or splash of vinegar if you like.
  11. Taste and finish: Adjust seasoning with soy, pepper, or a drizzle of chili oil. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.