Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice – A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Meal
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There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of fried rice — that perfect mix of savory flavor, fluffy grains, and tender bites of protein. This Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice is my go-to when I want dinner on the table in under 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
It’s also the ultimate clean-out-the-fridge recipe — leftover rice? Perfect. Random veggies? Toss them in. A little chicken? You’ve got dinner. This recipe will make you feel like you’re eating your favorite takeout, but with healthier ingredients and a fresher taste.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
You’re going to love this Chicken Fried Rice recipe! It’s a perfect combination of fast, flavorful, and flexible, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or quick lunches. Here’s why it’s so great:
Fast & Easy:
This fried rice comes together in just 25 minutes, start to finish. That’s super quick for a full meal, especially on busy weeknights. In less than half an hour, you have a hearty, satisfying dish ready to eat.
Budget-Friendly:
It’s a smart way to use leftovers! Leftover rice, bits of chicken, or vegetables in the fridge can all be turned into a tasty fried rice meal. Plus, it mainly uses common pantry staples, so you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a delicious dish.
Customizable:
This recipe is very flexible. You can swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef, or use whatever veggies you have on hand—peas, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli all work perfectly. You can make it your own depending on what’s available or your taste preferences.
Family Approved:
The flavors are mild enough for kids but still delicious for adults. You can always add a bit of soy sauce, ginger, or chili for extra flavor if you like it spicier. It’s a meal the whole family can enjoy together.
Meal Prep Friendly:
Chicken fried rice stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for quick lunches or reheating for dinner later in the week. Just portion it out, reheat, and you’ve got a convenient, tasty meal in minutes.
This Chicken Fried Rice is a simple, satisfying, and versatile dish that makes weeknights so much easier!
Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
- Coconut Oil – Adds subtle flavor and handles high heat well.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful, even after stir-frying.
- Onion, Garlic & Fresh Ginger – The holy trinity of fried rice aromatics.
- Carrot & Peas – Classic fried rice veggies for sweetness and color.
- Cold Cooked Rice – The secret weapon for non-mushy fried rice.
- Eggs – Soft scrambled for extra richness.
- Soy Sauce – Savory, umami depth.
- Sesame Oil – A nutty finishing touch.
- Scallions & Sesame Seeds – Freshness and crunch.
Instructions – Your Takeout at Home
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add cubed chicken, season lightly with salt, and stir-fry until fully cooked.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil.
Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables
Toss in carrots and peas. Cook another 2–3 minutes until tender but still colorful.
4. Fry the Rice
Add cold cooked rice, breaking apart clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry until hot and slightly crispy in spots.
5. Scramble the Eggs
Push rice to the sides of the pan, creating space in the middle.
Add remaining teaspoon coconut oil, pour in beaten eggs, and scramble until just set.
Mix into the rice.
6. Season & Finish
Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Remove from heat.
Return the chicken to the pan and toss to combine.
7. Serve
Top with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Cold Rice is Key – Fresh rice is too soft; overnight rice keeps its shape.
High Heat – A hot pan gives fried rice that signature smoky “wok hei” flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Too much food at once = steaming, not frying.
Taste Before Serving – Different soy sauces vary in saltiness.
Recommended Equipment
The right tools make cooking faster and easier:
Carbon Steel Wok – For Authentic Stir-Fry Flavor
Chef’s Knife – Quick Veggie Chopping
Wooden Spatula – Gentle on Nonstick Surfaces
Small Mixing Bowls – For Prepping Ingredients
How to Serve Your Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice
Here’s how you can serve your Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice to make it even more enjoyable and versatile:
In a Deep Bowl with Chopsticks:
Serve your fried rice in a deep bowl and grab some chopsticks for that authentic takeout vibe. It instantly feels more special and fun to eat, plus the bowl keeps the rice warm while you dig in.
With a Side of Chili Oil:
For those who love a little heat, set out some chili oil or even Sriracha on the side. Guests or family members can add spice to their own taste, making the dish customizable for everyone at the table.
Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken (Dakgangjeong Style)
Turn up the flavor with Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken (Dakgangjeong Style)—a dish that’s as visually irresistible as it is delicious. Each piece of chicken is fried to golden, crunchy perfection, then coated in a glossy glaze that’s the perfect balance of sweetness and heat. The result is a satisfying crunch on the outside and tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether served alongside fried rice, fresh veggie sides, or as part of a vibrant Korean-inspired dinner spread, this fried chicken is guaranteed to steal the show.
Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistibly Addictive –Sweet & Crunchy Korean Tofu Bites (Dubu Gangjeong).
Bring a burst of flavor to your table with Sweet & Crunchy Korean Tofu Bites (Dubu Gangjeong). Each golden, crispy bite of tofu is coated in a glossy Korean-style sweet chili sauce that’s sticky, tangy, and just a little spicy. The crunch on the outside and tender texture inside make it an ideal companion for dishes like fried rice, noodles, or fresh salads. Whether you’re building a full Korean-inspired feast or just want a quick snack with a big flavor payoff, these tofu bites deliver in every bite.
As Part of an Asian-Inspired Dinner Spread:
Pair your fried rice with other Asian-inspired dishes like dumplings, spring rolls, or stir-fried veggies. This makes a full, colorful dinner spread, perfect for family meals or casual dinner parties. It turns a simple fried rice dish into a complete, flavorful experience.
Example of Asian-inspired dishes:
Bright, Crisp, and Packed with Flavor –Spicy Garlic Cucumber Stir-Fry
Add a refreshing yet fiery kick to your meal with Spicy Garlic Cucumber Stir-Fry. The crisp cucumbers soak up a garlicky, chili-infused sauce that’s light but bold, making it the perfect contrast to richer main dishes like chicken fried rice. It brings balance to the plate—freshness to cut through savory flavors, and just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting.
Add a Comforting Bowl of Spicy Korean Tofu Stew
If you want to bring some cozy, bold flavors to your fried rice meal, serve it alongside a steaming bowl of Spicy Korean Tofu Stew. This hearty dish is packed with tender tofu, vegetables, and a rich, chili-infused broth that delivers warmth with every spoonful. The heat from the stew pairs beautifully with the savory fried rice, creating a balanced combination of spice, texture, and comfort.
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp – Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistible!
Already bursting with bold seasoning and a satisfying crunch, these shrimp become even more addictive with a touch of extra chili spice. The heat lifts the savory flavors to new heights, making them a perfect companion for dishes like fried rice, noodles, or fresh Asian-inspired salads.
Easy Peasy Chinese Pork Lettuce Wraps
The savory pork filling gets a big flavor boost from a drizzle of chili oil, adding a gentle heat that enhances rather than overpowers the crisp, refreshing lettuce. Perfect as a light, handheld bite, these wraps balance freshness with a satisfying punch of flavor, making them a great companion for richer dishes like fried rice or stir-fried noodles.
With these serving ideas, your chicken fried rice becomes more than just a simple meal—it’s a fun, flavorful, and complete dining experience!
Diet-Friendly Options
- Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies.
Best Ways to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water to revive texture.
Avoid microwaving for too long — it can make the rice chewy.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Chicken Fried Rice – Add sriracha or chili flakes during stir-frying.
Pineapple Fried Rice – Toss in pineapple chunks for sweet-salty goodness.
Kimchi Fried Rice – Stir in chopped kimchi for a tangy, spicy twist.
Garlic Butter Fried Rice – Swap sesame oil for melted butter at the end.
Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice – A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Meal
Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Spatula
- Small mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided (or another high-heat cooking oil)
- ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into small cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed and patted dry
- 4 cups cold cooked long-grain rice
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken:Heat 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season lightly with salt, and stir-fry until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté aromatics:In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add vegetables:Stir in carrots and peas. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Fry the rice:Add the cold rice, breaking apart clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry until heated through.
- Scramble eggs:Push rice and vegetables to the sides, leaving space in the center. Add the remaining teaspoon of coconut oil, pour in eggs, and scramble until just set. Mix eggs into the rice.
- Season:Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well. Remove from heat, then add the cooked chicken back in.
- Serve:Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Cold rice is key: Freshly cooked rice will be too soft; refrigerate overnight for the best texture.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha while stir-frying for a heat kick.
- Mix up the protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, beef, or tofu.
- Add more veggies: Try bell peppers, bean sprouts, or baby corn for extra color and crunch.
- Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Questions Answered
Do I need a wok?
No — a large skillet works, but a wok makes tossing easier.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — this is a great meal prep option. Store and reheat as directed above.
Why is my fried rice mushy?
Your rice may have been too fresh or too wet. Always use cold, day-old rice.
Wrap Up – Takeout Taste, Homemade Speed
This Quick & Tasty Chicken Fried Rice is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try making it at home, you might just skip the takeout menu entirely.
