Skip the takeout and make this quick, budget-friendly chicken fried rice at home. With simple ingredients and just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for dinner with plenty of leftovers for the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Faster than takeout – Ready in just 20 minutes.
• Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and leftover rice.
• Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables or protein.
• Great for meal prep – Makes delicious leftovers.

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Part 1: How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet – Ensures even cooking and better stir-frying.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – Helps toss ingredients without breaking the rice.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For dicing vegetables and chopping chicken.
• Small bowl – To beat the eggs before scrambling.

Preparation Tips

• Use leftover rice – Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky for fried rice. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool before using.
• Prep ingredients in advance – Since the cooking process is fast, have everything chopped and ready.
• Cook over medium-high to high heat – This helps achieve the signature fried rice texture.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken, cooked and shredded
• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably leftover or cooled)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat the Skillet

Preheat a medium skillet or wok over medium heat.

2. Cook the Vegetables

• Add sesame oil, diced onion, and peas/carrots to the skillet.
• Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

3. Scramble the Eggs

• Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.
• Pour in the lightly beaten eggs on the empty side.
• Scramble with a spatula until fully cooked.

4. Combine the Mixture

• Stir the scrambled eggs into the vegetable mixture.

5. Add Chicken and Rice

• Mix in the shredded chicken and cooked rice.

6. Season with Soy Sauce

• Pour in soy sauce and stir until evenly combined.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Stir in green onions, if using.
• Serve immediately and enjoy.

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Recipe Variations & Customization

• Swap the protein – Use shrimp, beef, tofu, or even bacon.
• Add more vegetables – Try diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.
• Make it spicy – Add chili flakes or sriracha for a kick.
• Use different rice – Brown rice or cauliflower rice works as well.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the experience. Here are some great options:

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice

1. Egg Rolls – Crispy and flavorful, these make a great appetizer.
2. Hot and Sour Soup – A tangy, spicy soup that balances the richness of fried rice.
3. Steamed Dumplings – A soft and savory addition to the meal.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables – Lightly seasoned vegetables like bok choy or snap peas add freshness.
5. Spring Rolls – Crunchy and filled with vegetables or shrimp for a refreshing bite.
6. Sesame Chicken – A sweet and savory dish that pairs well with the simplicity of fried rice.
7. Garlic Green Beans – A quick and flavorful vegetable side.
8. Sweet and Sour Sauce – Drizzle on top for an extra layer of flavor.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Using Freshly Cooked Rice

Why it is a mistake: Fresh rice is too moist and sticky, leading to a mushy texture.
How to fix it: Use day-old rice or spread fresh rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least an hour before cooking.

2. Overcrowding the Pan

Why it is a mistake: Too many ingredients at once prevent proper frying and can make the rice steam instead.
How to fix it: Use a large wok or skillet and cook in batches if needed.

3. Not Cooking on High Enough Heat

Why it is a mistake: Low heat prevents the rice from developing the signature fried texture.
How to fix it: Cook on medium-high to high heat and keep stirring frequently.

4. Adding Too Much Soy Sauce at Once

Why it is a mistake: Too much soy sauce can overpower the dish and make it soggy.
How to fix it: Add soy sauce gradually, tasting as you go, and consider using low-sodium soy sauce.

5. Skipping the Egg Scramble Step

Why it is a mistake: Eggs add texture and flavor; mixing them too soon with the rice can make them disappear into the dish.
How to fix it: Scramble the eggs separately before combining with the vegetables and rice.

6. Not Using Enough Oil

Why it is a mistake: Fried rice needs some oil to prevent sticking and achieve the right texture.
How to fix it: Use sesame oil or another high-heat oil and stir-fry in small amounts.

7. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Why it is a mistake: Fried rice flavor varies based on ingredients, and under-seasoning can make it bland.
How to fix it: Taste the rice before serving and adjust with soy sauce, salt, pepper, or sesame oil as needed.

8. Not Prepping Ingredients Before Cooking

Why it is a mistake: Fried rice cooks quickly, and scrambling to chop ingredients while cooking can lead to overcooking.
How to fix it: Have all ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go before heating the pan.

Recipe Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Rice

• Use cold, leftover rice – Freshly cooked rice is too soft and sticky. Day-old rice is drier, making it perfect for frying.
• Cook on high heat – This helps achieve the signature fried texture and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
• Use the right oil – Sesame oil adds great flavor, but you can also use vegetable or peanut oil for high-heat cooking.
• Do not over-season – Add soy sauce gradually to avoid making the rice too salty.
• Stir constantly – This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Customize as needed – Add more vegetables, swap the protein, or spice it up with sriracha or chili flakes.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Fried Rice

• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil or water, and stir-fry for a few minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
• Oven: Spread rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

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FAQs About Chicken Fried Rice

Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes, brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just make sure it is fully cooked and cooled before using.

What is the best way to shred the chicken?

You can use two forks to shred cooked chicken or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quick shredding. Rotisserie chicken is also a great shortcut.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw them before adding to the pan to prevent excess moisture.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice, basmati rice, or long-grain white rice are ideal. Avoid short-grain rice, as it tends to be stickier.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.

Is there a low-sodium option?

Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce the salt content.

How do I prevent fried rice from getting soggy?

Use cold, dry rice, cook on high heat, and avoid adding too much liquid.

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Conclusion

This better-than-takeout chicken fried rice is quick, easy, and full of flavor. Whether you are making it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, you will never need to order takeout again.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a homemade meal that is just as delicious as your favorite restaurant version.