Name: Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 pound chicken cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 cup diced white onion (about 1 small onion); 1 cup thawed frozen peas and carrots; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 3 cups cooked rice; 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce, more or less to taste; 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (optional garnish)

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 24 reviews

Chicken Fried Rice has a special place in my weeknight dinner lineup: it’s that rare dish that’s both ridiculously quick and utterly craveable. Imagine tender bites of golden chicken, fluffy rice that soaks up savory sauce, pops of sweet peas, and softly scrambled eggs—all seared together in one skillet. Bright green onions add a final flourish, making every bite colorful and totally irresistible. This recipe turns pantry basics and leftover rice into takeout-style magic right in your own kitchen.

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something comforting about simple ingredients coming together to make something truly delicious. Each component in this Chicken Fried Rice brings its own irresistible flavor or texture, ensuring the finished dish is far more than the sum of its parts.

Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy protein in every forkful.
Vegetable Oil: Just enough to get that perfect sizzle on your chicken and veggies without overpowering the other flavors.
Soy Sauce: Adds a deep, complex saltiness—start with a little and always adjust at the end to taste.
Sesame Oil: This fragrant oil brings a nutty richness and that signature takeout aroma.
White Onion: Diced small, it softens and sweetens as it cooks, creating a flavorful base.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: No need to chop—just thaw! They bring color, texture, and a comforting nod to classic fried rice.
Eggs: Lightly beaten, they cook up fluffy and offer delicious richness throughout the rice.
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is best for the firm, separated grains you see in restaurants; fresh rice can turn a little mushy.
Green Onions: Thinly sliced for garnish, they add a fresh pop of color and delicate onion flavor at the very end.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add the vegetable oil along with a splash of soy sauce. Toss in your chunks of chicken and cook them until they’re lightly golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken will develop the perfect flavor base—and don’t be afraid if they stick just a bit, those browned bits mean flavor! Once done, scoop out the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Return the pan to the heat, then add the sesame oil, diced onion, and your thawed peas and carrots. Fry the veggies for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and everything gets a glossy, golden edge—it’s these little details that make homemade Chicken Fried Rice taste like your favorite takeout.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push those veggies to the sides of your pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and let them sit for a moment before scrambling them gently with a spatula. Once the eggs are softly cooked, mix them in with your veggies so every bite gets that pillowy texture.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your cooled cooked rice and reserved chicken back into the pan. Pour in additional soy sauce (taste as you go!) and stir well to combine. Allow the rice to toast up for a minute or two—this gives you that coveted signature fried rice flavor. Everything should be hot and gorgeously mixed together at this point.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Right before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. The fresh crunch and vibrant color elevate this Chicken Fried Rice and make it look as phenomenal as it tastes. Serve it up hot, straight from the pan!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

Garnishes

A shower of thinly sliced green onions is the classic finish, but don’t stop there! Try a dash of toasted sesame seeds, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or even a drizzle of chili crisp oil for extra pop and zing. These touches make your homemade Chicken Fried Rice both visually appealing and tailored to your taste.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is a perfect meal on its own, it also plays well with others. Pair it with quick cucumber salad, garlicky green beans, or simple steamed dumplings to round out your table. A light soup like miso or egg drop can make this meal feel like a feast without much extra effort.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Chicken Fried Rice the restaurant treatment by serving it in small bowls, bento boxes, or even scooped inside halved bell peppers for a fun and colorful twist. For parties, spoon portions into lettuce cups so friends can grab and go—delicious bites, no fork required!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Fried Rice is a gift you’ll look forward to. Store it in an airtight container in your fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 5 to 7 days. The flavors mellow and mingle as it rests, making your next meal extra tasty.

Freezing

If you’re looking to get ahead, Chicken Fried Rice is fantastic for freezing. Cool the rice completely first, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Flatten them out for easy stacking and faster thawing when you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chicken Fried Rice on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. A splash of water or soy sauce will help loosen the grains and restore moisture. If you must use the microwave, cover the rice and heat in short bursts, fluffing in between so everything warms evenly.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice gives the Chicken Fried Rice an extra nutty flavor and a boost of fiber. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before using, as brown rice can be a bit chewier and stickier if too fresh.

Is it necessary to use leftover rice?

Day-old rice is preferred because it’s drier, helping each grain stay separate and preventing mushiness. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray to cool quickly and let it dry out a bit before adding to the pan.

What vegetables can I use if I don’t have peas and carrots?

Get creative! Diced bell peppers, snap peas, edamame, corn, or even shredded cabbage all work beautifully. The beauty of Chicken Fried Rice is that it welcomes whatever’s in the fridge.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the chicken for tofu or just double up on the veggies and egg for a hearty, meatless version. The core flavors of fried rice are all still there, so you won’t miss out!

Is Chicken Fried Rice good for meal prep?

Yes! It holds up incredibly well and tastes just as good (if not better) after a day or two. Portion it into containers and grab satisfying, protein-packed lunches or dinners all week.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this homemade Chicken Fried Rice, you’ll wonder why you ever waited for takeout delivery. It’s comforting, speedy, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for busy days or lazy nights. Gather your ingredients and give it a go; you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!