If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering a takeout classic in your own kitchen, this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. It’s bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a perfect balance of textures—from tender chicken pieces to crisp veggies and fluffy rice. Best of all, it comes together quickly and easily, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or whenever you want a satisfying meal that feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you make this, fried rice will never look the same again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is half the magic behind this Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding richness, crunch, or that savory depth that makes the dish unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons oil: Choose canola, sesame, peanut, or a blend to bring a fantastic nutty aroma and help everything cook evenly.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Diced bite-sized and seasoned simply with salt and pepper to soak up those flavors perfectly.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped to add a subtle sweetness and slight crunch.
- 1 cup frozen pea-and-carrot blend: A colorful, nutrient-packed duo that perks up the dish with hints of natural sweetness.
- 1 red bell pepper: Finely diced for a fresh burst of vibrant red color and crispness.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse that signature pungent, garlicky punch that fried rice just can’t do without.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional): Adds an exciting warming spice and depth to balance the garlic’s intensity.
- 3 cups cooked and chilled rice: Jasmine or long-grain work beautifully; chilling prevents clumping for that perfect fried rice texture.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty backbone of the dish, giving it umami richness and color.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Just the right touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten and scrambled into the mix for added protein and creamy texture.
- 3 green onions: Sliced fresh to sprinkle a peppery freshness on top.
- Toppings (optional): Sesame seeds, toasted sesame oil, or extra green onions to amp up the presentation and flavor layers.
How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast pieces that you’ve seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Cook them, stirring now and then until they are nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm while you work on the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In that same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and diced red bell pepper, sautéing them for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. Toss in the frozen pea-and-carrot blend and keep cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, letting the veggies become tender yet retain some snap. Stir in the minced garlic and, if you’re using it, the grated ginger. Cook just 30 seconds more, until those scents fill your kitchen with irresistible aroma.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Sauce
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Scoop the chilled rice onto the other side. Drizzle the soy sauce and honey or maple syrup over the rice. Now toss everything together, mixing the sticky rice with the veggies and sauce evenly. Spread the rice out into an even layer in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes. This will give the rice a slightly crisp bottom that adds wonderful texture. Stir and let it cook for another 2 minutes to deepen that effect.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the rice and veggies to one side of the pan, creating a cleared space. Pour the beaten eggs into this open part. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently but continuously, until the eggs just set. Break the cooked eggs into small bite-sized pieces with your spatula and fold them right into the rice mixture. This step adds creaminess and an extra protein boost to your dish.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Green Onions
Return the cooked chicken and sliced green onions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the elements. Let everything heat through thoroughly for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can mingle beautifully before you take it off the heat.
Step 6: Serve
Remove your masterpiece from heat and serve immediately. Sprinkle extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil if you love that aromatic finish. Dive in right away for the best experience of this classic, flavorful chicken fried rice.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even a small drizzle of sesame oil takes your Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe to the next level. These small touches introduce fresh crunch and nutty depth that brighten every bite and make the dish look stunning on the plate.
Side Dishes
This fried rice pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or even a bowl of hot miso soup. These accompaniments balance the savory, slightly sweet flavors with refreshing or comforting accents that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends or family, try serving this chicken fried rice inside crispy lettuce cups or spooned into halved bell peppers for individual colorful servings. You can also top it with a fried egg or crunchy crushed peanuts to add new textures and a creative flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just make sure to cool it fully before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to revive that lovely moisture and achieve the slightly crisp texture again. You can also reheat in the microwave covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rice that’s been chilled overnight is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps create the perfect fried rice texture without clumping up.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a gluten-free or low-sodium option, tamari or coconut aminos work great. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit different but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, swap out the chicken for extra veggies or tofu, and omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu or chickpea flour scramble for a vegan version. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen vegetables?
Frozen vegetables like pea-and-carrot blends are convenient and maintain good texture and flavor when cooked properly, but fresh veggies add a brighter crunch if you prefer.
How do I get my fried rice to crisp up nicely?
Make sure to spread the rice out in an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes. Using chilled rice prevents mushiness, which is key to achieving that satisfying slight crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking with a beloved classic. Give it a try—you’ll find it effortlessly becoming a new favorite to whip up again and again!
Print
Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and delicious Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly scrambled eggs all tossed with soy sauce and a touch of honey for a flavorful Asian-inspired meal ready in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces and seasoned with salt and pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup frozen pea-and-carrot blend
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Grains and Sauces
- 3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine or long-grain rice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Oils and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons oil (canola, sesame, peanut, or a blend, more if needed)
- Toppings to serve (optional): sesame seeds, toasted sesame oil, additional green onion
Instructions
- Cook chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper; sauté for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the frozen pea-and-carrot blend and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and optional grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add rice and sauce: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the chilled cooked rice to the other side and drizzle with soy sauce and honey (or maple syrup). Toss all ingredients together, then spread the rice in an even layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to get slightly crisp, then stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Scramble eggs: Move the rice and vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating space for the eggs. Pour in the beaten eggs into the cleared space. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the eggs are just set. Break the scrambled eggs into smaller pieces and incorporate them into the rice and vegetable mixture.
- Finish: Return the cooked chicken and sliced green onions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using chilled cooked rice is crucial to prevent soggy fried rice; day-old rice works best.
- Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or pork for variety.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to taste, especially if using low-sodium soy sauce.
- Optional ginger adds a fresh, aromatic kick but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Add sesame oil at the end for deeper flavor if you have it on hand.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2–3 days and reheat quickly in a pan or microwave.
