Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in a flash, this Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, vibrant vegetables, and savory seasonings, it’s a comforting dish that never fails to impress. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality tastes with minimal fuss, making it a true kitchen hero you’ll want in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish shines because of its straightforward but impactful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—bringing texture, color, and depth to the fried rice and ensuring every bite feels balanced and satisfying.

• Cooked jasmine rice (4 ½ cups): Day-old rice works best for that perfect fluffy texture without clumping.
• Skinless boneless chicken thighs (½ lb): Thinly sliced for tender, juicy bites that soak up all the flavors.
• Frozen peas and carrots (1.5 cups): Adds a pop of color and a sweet crunch that’s classic in fried rice.
• Large eggs (3, beaten): Scrambled into the rice for richness and a lovely silkiness.
• Shallot or small onion (1, finely diced): A subtle sweetness and aromatic base for the dish.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Boosts the savory profile with a warm, inviting depth.
• Vegetable oil (4 teaspoons): A neutral oil perfect for stir-frying without overpowering.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons regular + 1 teaspoon for marinade): The salty umami backbone of the recipe.
• Shaoxing cooking wine (1 teaspoon): Or substitute dry sherry or chicken broth to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
• Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Helps give the chicken an irresistibly smooth texture in the marinade.
• Dark soy sauce (½ tablespoon): Infuses a rich, caramelized color and flavor to the rice.
• Sesame oil (2 teaspoons): Brings a nutty aroma that finishes the dish beautifully.
• Chicken bouillon powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a boost of savory depth, enhancing overall taste.
• White or black pepper (⅛ teaspoon): A gentle kick of warmth to balance the flavors.

How to Make Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by gently tossing the sliced chicken thighs in a simple marinade made with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and oil. This step is key because it helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor, setting the stage for juicy, flavorful bites in your fried rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine your sauce ingredients—soy sauces, sesame oil, chicken bouillon powder, and pepper—in a small bowl. This mix is your secret weapon, adding that irresistible savory punch to the finished dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, and cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Removing the chicken now lets the pan prepare for flavorful sautéing without overcrowding.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Add another teaspoon of oil, then sauté the minced garlic and diced shallots for a quick 10 seconds to unleash their fragrance. Toss in the frozen peas and carrots, frying briefly to keep their lively texture and color.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the last bit of oil into the empty space. Pour in the beaten eggs, let them sit briefly to set, and then scramble gently until broken into bite-sized pieces. Mix everything together so the eggs mingle with the veggies.

Step 6: Incorporate Rice and Chicken

Add the cold, cooked rice and the cooked chicken back to the pan. Toss thoroughly to combine all those delicious ingredients, ensuring each grain gets coated and heated through evenly.

Step 7: Add the Sauce and Finish

Pour your prepared sauce around the edges of the pan, allowing it to toast for about 5 seconds before stirring everything together. This little trick deepens the flavor and gives every forkful a beautiful, savory brown hue.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes take your Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice from tasty to unforgettable. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top to add brightness. A drizzle of extra sesame oil or a few toasted sesame seeds brings a delightful nutty crunch, while a wedge of lime on the side offers a zesty contrast.

Side Dishes

Though filling on its own, pairing this chicken fried rice with simple sides like steamed dumplings, a light cucumber salad, or even a bowl of hot miso soup can turn your meal into a balanced feast. These complement the savory richness without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve this dish in hollowed-out bell peppers or edible lettuce cups for bite-sized portions that wow at parties. Alternatively, use a ring mold on the plate for a neat, restaurant-style presentation, garnishing with microgreens or thin slices of red chili for color and a subtle kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice reheats beautifully, so store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or speedy dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this fried rice if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags to avoid freezer burn. Frozen chicken fried rice keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, sprinkle a little water or broth over the rice to prevent dryness. Heat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly. Adding a touch of soy sauce or sesame oil during reheating can revive the flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use white or brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, you can substitute white rice if needed. Brown rice works too but has a chewier texture and takes longer to cook, so be mindful of these differences when prepping.

Is it okay to use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts are leaner and work well if sliced thinly and cooked just until done to avoid dryness.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, this recipe is versatile. Bell peppers, corn, green beans, or even finely chopped broccoli would be delicious additions, just adjust cooking times to keep veggies crisp-tender.

What can I use if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?

Dry sherry, dry white wine, or even chicken broth make great substitutes, adding a touch of sweetness and depth to the chicken marinade.

How do I prevent the rice from clumping together?

Using cold, day-old rice is key since it dries out slightly, allowing the grains to separate easily when fried. Freshly cooked rice should be cooled thoroughly and spread out to release moisture before cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something so rewarding about whipping up a homemade dish that beats takeout in taste, speed, and heart. This Quick & Easy Chicken Fried Rice not only checks all those boxes but also fills your kitchen with inviting aromas that make eating together feel extra special. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite that everyone will ask for again and again!