Chicken Fried Rice
To make Chicken Fried Rice, cook the protein in a hot pan, stir-fry the vegetables quickly, then toss everything in a glossy sauce right at the end. It works because the pan stays hot enough for color and the sauce goes in only when it can finish the job.
This chicken fried rice cooks the protein hot and fast, stir-fries the vegetables quick, then ties it all together with a glossy sauce right at the end. Day-old rice works best here — it fries up better than fresh.
It's a fast weeknight meal that beats takeout on both speed and cost. Use cold, day-old rice if you have it, and keep the pan hot throughout.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken
- 1 to 2 cups rice
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic or 1 tablespoon ginger
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
Instructions
- 1Whisk the sauce ingredients together before heating the pan so the stir fry moves fast once it starts.
- 2Cook the chicken in a very hot skillet or wok until browned, then remove if needed to keep it from steaming.
- 3Cook the rice and peas just until crisp-tender.
- 4Return everything to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss until glossy and thickened.
- 5Serve right away over rice or noodles while the vegetables still have some snap.
Pro Tips
- A hot pan matters more than a long ingredient list in stir fry.
- Sauce measured ahead keeps you from panicking at the stove.
- Do not cook the vegetables until floppy. Let them keep some attitude.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Make Ahead
Slice the protein and vegetables ahead because the actual cook goes fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time?
Yes. Slice the protein and vegetables ahead because the actual cook goes fast.
How do I store leftover Chicken Fried Rice?
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Chicken Fried Rice?
Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.
What should I serve with Chicken Fried Rice?
Serve Chicken Fried Rice with something that gives it contrast, like a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or bread depending on the style.