Homemade Chicken Fried Rice

Name: Homemade Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 eggs, beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Favorites

I love whipping up a batch of homemade chicken fried rice when I'm in need of a comforting meal that's quick and satisfying. The best part is that I can use whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables tossed together with soy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that always hit the spot. It’s truly a go-to when craving something delicious and easy!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:25:36.054Z

When I first tried making chicken fried rice at home, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it could be. I discovered that using day-old rice made all the difference as it had the right texture and prevented the dish from becoming mushy. I also learned that letting the chicken marinate in soy sauce beforehand enhances the flavor throughout the dish.

One specific tip that I swear by is to cook the veggies separately before adding them to the rice. This technique maintains their crispness and adds a beautiful variety of textures. Trust me, it's a game-changer for achieving that perfect restaurant-style chicken fried rice!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins
Rich flavor profile from soy sauce and sesame oil
Great way to use up leftover rice

Mastering the Technique

The secret to great fried rice lies in using day-old rice, which reduces moisture content and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. When you use freshly cooked rice, the grains may stick together and create a clumpy texture. To perfectly prepare your rice, make it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool before refrigerating. This ensures each grain stays separate during frying.

While cooking the eggs at the beginning, avoid overcooking them; they should remain soft and fluffy. Remove them from the skillet when they’re just set, as they'll continue to cook slightly from residual heat. This helps maintain a tender texture in the final dish, ensuring a good balance with the crispy rice and crunchy vegetables.

Ingredient Insights

Using sesame oil not only adds depth to the flavor profile but also enhances the overall aroma of the dish. It’s best to add it towards the end of cooking, which keeps its nutty fragrance intact. If you don't have sesame oil, a light drizzle of olive oil can serve as a substitute, though the finished dish will differ in taste. Make sure to use high-quality soy sauce for the best results; it infuses the rice with savory umami notes that elevate the entire meal.

When it comes to vegetables, feel free to customize according to what you have on hand. Bell peppers, peas, and carrots work well, but consider adding corn, zucchini, or even broccoli for extra color and nutrients. Ensure you cut all vegetables into similar sizes to promote even cooking. If you want to incorporate spinach or kale, add them at the end so they wilt slightly but retain their vibrant color.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients and have them ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother.

Cook the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat and scramble the beaten eggs. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken and Veggies

In the same skillet, add another teaspoon of oil, followed by the diced chicken and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice and return the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything together for another 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Using day-old rice is key for achieving the perfect texture. It prevents the rice from turning mushy. Also, feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables for a personal touch!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing leftover chicken fried rice is easy and convenient. Let the dish cool at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a few drops of soy sauce to prevent it from drying out, and heat it in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout. Stirring occasionally ensures even reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of fried rice. Store it in freezer-safe bags and flatten them out to save space. It can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator and reheat directly in a pan with a little oil, which brings back that desirable texture.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken fried rice can easily stand alone as a satisfying meal, but adding some extra toppings can elevate your dining experience. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or some extra sliced green onions for a pop of freshness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, serve it alongside chili sauce or sriracha for those who like a punch of flavor.

For a more complete meal, pair your fried rice with protein sides like teriyaki chicken or steamed dumplings. A simple cucumber salad or stir-fried bok choy can also provide a refreshing contrast to the savory rice. Experimenting with different pairings not only enhances the meal's appeal but also allows you to use up extra ingredients you might have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, brown rice will work, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and add tofu or more vegetables instead.

→ What other sauces can I add for more flavor?

You can add oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or even chili sauce for some heat!

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the fried rice in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying.