Chicken Fried Rice: The Ultimate 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

Chicken Fried Rice: The Ultimate 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

Key Info:

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary tags: Gluten-free option, Dairy-free option

Equipment Needed:

– Large wok or skillet
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Spatula
– Mixing bowls

Ingredients:

– 3/4 lb chicken breast, diced
– 2-3 cups cold, day-old white rice
– 1-2 eggs
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup carrots, small dice
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Green onions for garnish

Method:

1. Prep ingredients: Dice chicken, chop vegetables, measure seasonings.
2. Cook chicken:
   • Heat oil in skillet
   • Season chicken with salt and pepper
   • Cook until golden and 165°F internal temp
   • Remove and set aside
3. Scramble eggs:
   • In same pan, pour whisked eggs
   • Cook until just set
   • Remove from pan
4. Sauté vegetables:
   • Add more oil if needed
   • Sauté onions and carrots
   • Add garlic in last minute
   • Cook until tender (2-4 minutes)
5. Fry rice:
   • Add cold rice to skillet
   • Break up clumps
   • Spread to crisp
   • Stir occasionally
   • Allow slight browning for texture
6. Combine and season:
   • Return chicken and eggs to pan
   • Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil
   • Toss to coat evenly
7. Finish:
   • Add green onions
   • Taste and adjust seasoning

Crucial Tips:

– Use day-old, cold rice for best texture
– Don’t overcrowd the pan
– High heat is key for crispy rice
– Cook each ingredient separately

Storage:

– Refrigerate in airtight container
– Keeps 5 days
– Freeze up to 3-4 months

Variations:

– Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef
– Add more vegetables
– Try brown rice or cauliflower rice
– Make vegetarian by omitting meat

Pro Tips:

– Crispy rice = flavor
– Fresh scallions make everything better
– Adjust soy sauce to taste
– Sesame oil is non-negotiable

Nutrition Highlights:

– High protein
– Balanced meal
– Quick and satisfying
– Customizable

Enjoy your restaurant-quality fried rice at home!