Best Chicken Fried Rice Recipes You Must Try

Chicken fried rice is a beloved dish, cherished for its savory flavors and comforting qualities. Originating from various parts of Asia, especially China, it has become a global favorite, often featured in many international cuisines with local adaptations. This post will explore some of the best chicken fried rice recipes that you must try, offering variations for different taste preferences and cooking expertise.

Classic Chinese Chicken Fried Rice

The classic Chinese chicken fried rice is where it all begins. Here’s how to make an authentic version:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of cooked, cold rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup of diced, cooked chicken
  • 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
  • 1/2 cup of mixed peas and carrots
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Method:
  1. Heat your wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add vegetable oil and once it's hot, stir in the scrambled eggs. Cook until they're just set, then remove them from the pan.
  2. Add more oil if necessary, then add the chicken to brown slightly.
  3. Push the chicken to the side, and add the veggies, cooking them until they're tender.
  4. Add the rice, breaking up any clumps, and fry it with the chicken and veggies.
  5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is well coated with the sauces.
  6. Return the eggs to the pan, along with scallions, and stir through.
  7. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for that distinctive aroma and flavor.

🍲 Note: Use day-old rice for the best texture as freshly cooked rice can become mushy.

Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice

This version brings a Thai twist to the table:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup of cooked, diced chicken
  • 1/4 cup of basil leaves
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2-3 Thai chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Method:
  1. In a hot wok or frying pan, heat oil and fry the garlic until fragrant, then add chilies.
  2. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for a couple of minutes, then add the chicken.
  3. Push the ingredients to one side, crack in the eggs, and let them set before scrambling.
  4. Add the rice, breaking it up with the back of a spoon, then mix in the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
  5. Stir-fry everything together, adding the basil leaves at the last moment to wilt in the residual heat.

🍵 Note: Thai basil provides a unique taste; however, if not available, sweet basil can be used, though it will alter the flavor profile.

Indonesian Nasi Goreng Ayam

Indonesian-style chicken fried rice or Nasi Goreng Ayam has a sweet and smoky flavor:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of cold cooked rice
  • 1 cup of diced, cooked chicken
  • 2 shallots, sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis)
  • 1 tablespoon of regular soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs, fried separately
  • Spring onions and fried shallots for garnish
• Method:
  1. Fry the shallots until golden and set aside for garnish.
  2. Heat oil, sauté garlic until aromatic.
  3. Add chicken and cook through.
  4. Mix in the rice, breaking up any clumps. Pour over the sauces and stir thoroughly.
  5. Season with white pepper.
  6. Serve with fried eggs on top and garnish with spring onions and fried shallots.

🌶️ Note: Sweet soy sauce is key for the authentic taste; consider making your own or look for it in an Asian supermarket.

Kimchi Chicken Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a fusion of flavors, try this Korean-inspired dish:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of cooked, cold rice
  • 1 cup of diced, cooked chicken
  • 1 cup of kimchi, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of kimchi juice
  • 2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped scallions
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
• Method:
  1. Heat oil in a pan, scramble the eggs, and set aside.
  2. Add more oil, fry the chicken, then mix in kimchi and kimchi juice.
  3. Stir in gochujang for heat and flavor, then add the rice.
  4. Finally, incorporate the scrambled eggs, top with sesame oil, and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.

🍽️ Note: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance.

The exploration of chicken fried rice recipes around the world reveals a dish with immense adaptability. From the classic Chinese stir-fry to the spicy and tangy Korean version, each culture adds its unique touch, making chicken fried rice an endlessly customizable meal. Here are some final thoughts:

• Quality Ingredients: The taste of fried rice is greatly influenced by the quality and freshness of the ingredients used. From the rice to the proteins and veggies, each component plays a crucial role.

• Heat Control: High heat is essential for fried rice to ensure the rice doesn’t get mushy and to give that characteristic wok hei or “breath of the wok” flavor.

• Customization: Experiment with different meats, seafood, or go entirely vegetarian. The base method remains the same; the flavors are what make it distinct.

• Garnishing: A well-garnished dish not only looks more appealing but can also add an extra layer of flavor. From fried shallots to fresh herbs, consider the final touch.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these chicken fried rice recipes offer something for everyone. Try them out, mix and match, and find your perfect version of this universal comfort food.

What is the best rice to use for fried rice?

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The best rice for fried rice is day-old rice, as it is drier and yields a better texture. Jasmine or long-grain white rice is commonly used.

Can I substitute chicken with other meats or make it vegetarian?

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Yes, you can use beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and enhance with more vegetables or substitute with plant-based proteins.

How can I prevent my fried rice from becoming mushy?

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Use cold, day-old rice. If cooking rice specifically for fried rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out before frying. Also, make sure your wok or pan is hot enough before adding ingredients.

Is there a way to make fried rice healthier?

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Use brown rice for more fiber, add plenty of vegetables, use lean cuts of meat or plant-based proteins, and limit the use of high-sodium sauces or look for low-sodium versions.

Can I make fried rice in advance?

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You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to fry the rice just before serving. If you must store, keep cooked components separately and assemble only when reheating.