Name: Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled); 2 cups boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thigh meat (cooked and shredded); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2/3 cup sweet onions (diced); 1 cup carrots (diced, frozen (thawed)); 1 cup peas (frozen (thawed)); 3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce ((or gluten-free tamari)); 2 large eggs

If you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal that can be whipped up quickly, look no further than this Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice. It’s a delightful fusion of fluffy brown rice, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed together with a savory sauce. What’s even better? You can customize it to your liking and enjoy the flavors of your favorite takeout right from your own kitchen.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is my go-to dish for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use whatever leftover veggies you have on hand, making it a perfect way to reduce food waste. The combination of chicken and brown rice not only makes it filling but also packs a protein punch. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which means it’s ideal for busy weeknights. The taste is simply unbeatable—think of your favorite Chinese restaurant but in the comfort of your own home!

Ingredient List

4 cups brown rice, cooked and chilled
2 cups boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thigh meat, cooked and shredded
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2/3 cup sweet onions, diced
1 cup carrots, diced, frozen (thawed)
1 cup peas, frozen (thawed)
3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
2 large eggs

Equipment at a Glance

Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for frying the rice evenly.
Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Chopping Board and Knife: For dicing vegetables and shredding chicken.

Method: Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start with chilled brown rice. If you haven’t cooked it ahead of time, you can prepare it earlier in the day or even the night before. The chilled rice will help prevent clumping during the frying process.

Step 2: Heat the Wok

Place your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and let it heat until shimmering. This step is crucial as it imparts a rich, nutty flavor to your fried rice.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced sweet onions to the skillet. Stir them frequently for about 2-3 minutes or until they become translucent. This adds a wonderful sweetness to the dish.

Step 4: Add the Carrots and Peas

Next, toss in the thawed carrots and peas. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender. The color contrast makes the dish visually appealing!

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing well with the vegetables. Allow the chicken to heat up for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 6: Move to the Rice

Now, it’s time to add the chilled brown rice. Break apart any clumps using your spatula and mix everything together. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, ensuring that it gets a little crispy and heated all the way through.

Step 7: Season it Up

Drizzle the lite soy sauce over the rice mixture. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. Stir well to ensure that the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients.

Step 8: Scramble the Eggs

Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked. Then, mix them into the rice.

Step 9: Final Stir & Serve

Give everything a final stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Chicken: Use tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Substitute with bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini based on your preference.
Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos can be used as a soy-free alternative.
Rice: Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be a great alternative for a low-carb option.

What Not to Do

Don’t use freshly cooked rice. Always use chilled rice for the best texture.
Avoid overcooking the vegetables. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Don’t skip the sesame oil—it’s key to achieving that authentic flavor.
Refrain from overcrowding the skillet. If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in batches to ensure even frying.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help steam and revive the texture. Stir constantly until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on a microwave-safe plate, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, and omit the eggs for a vegan-friendly option. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the flavor.

What’s the best type of rice to use?

While this recipe calls for brown rice for its nutritional benefits, you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a more traditional fried rice flavor. Just be sure to cook it ahead of time and chill it before using.

Can I freeze leftover fried rice?

Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the fried rice to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.

How can I add more flavor to the fried rice?

Consider adding garlic, ginger, or even a splash of rice vinegar for an extra zing. You could also garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions just before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also highly customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is bound to impress with its delightful flavors and textures. Happy cooking!