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Nothing better than lounging around at home and getting the cravings for Chinese takeout. Comfort food like noodles and chicken fried rice is always just one takeout menu away. But what if we told you a super mouthwatering yet totally easy chicken fried rice is available right in your own kitchen?
We know, it’s not as fun nor easy as calling a number and having someone else deliver the food. But this delicious meal isn’t just for lazy nights! Infuse your family dinners with these comfort flavors with a healthier twist.
Even if you don’t have a wok, which is what is traditionally used to create many fried rice dishes, a wide skillet would do.
Ingredients
Now, I know we don’t always have fried rice lying around, but if you do happen to have leftovers, feel free to use it for the rice. We definitely recommend day-old rice for a better texture, but a newly cooked batch will do.
For the rice, use:
- 1 cup white rice (long grain)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp. salt
To prepare the stir-fry, you’ll need:
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup scallions, sliced thinly
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tbsp. soy sauce (or to taste)
Lastly, prepare the following ingredients for the chicken:
- 12 ounces chicken breasts or thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 tbsp. soy sauce or tamari sauce
- 1 tsp. rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp. sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1. Bring water in a large saucepan to boil over medium-high heat, adding the rice, salt, and butter or oil. Reduce the heat until the pot is in an active simmer, then cover the pan so steam stays in. Leave alone for 18 minutes.
Alternatively, you can use a rice cooker to make your rice for this step. Simply press the white rice option or flick the switch. Check out the best rice cookers in our guide here.
Step 2. Check to see if the rice is firm without being gummy. Drain any excess water, then return the lid and cook for about 3 more minutes.
Step 3. Take out the rice and spread it evenly onto a baking sheet. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Note: for crunchier fried rice, you may refrigerate overnight.
Step 4. Prepare all the ingredients needed to marinate the chicken: soy sauce, black pepper, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Combine in a medium bowl and let it marinate for around 5-10 minutes.
Step 5. Over medium-high heat, add the 2 tablespoons of oil onto your large steel skillet until it starts to simmer. Add the chicken and cook for around 6-8 minutes or until thoroughly browned, then remove the chicken.
Step 6. To begin the stir-fry, increase the heat to high and add 1 more tablespoon of oil. First add the ginger and red pepper flakes, letting them cook for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Add carrots, letting it fry for 1 minute, then the peas and corn for 30 seconds.
Step 7. Pour the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the rice and green onions, frying them for about 2 minutes. Stir the rice to reduce the amount sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 8. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper into the skillet to season the rice. Stir fry for about 10 seconds, making sure to fully incorporate the seasoning.
Step 9. Now we can add in the egg. Start by reducing the heat first and pushing aside the rice. Add the beaten egg into the pan and cook. Once ready, toss it in with the rice.
Step 10. Add cooked chicken into your skillet, stirring lightly to combine.
And there you have it: beautiful, delicious, and super mouthwatering chicken fried rice at home. Turn your mealtime into comfort food time with this recipe!
Trying your hand at a few more rice-based dishes? Check out our other rice recipes here to get a few ideas for your next meal!
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