Easy

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Name: Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs (diced into 2 cm pieces); 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (cold, day-old preferred); 3 whole large eggs (beaten); 150 g frozen peas and carrots mix; 4 whole green onions (sliced, whites and greens separated); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 60 ml soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 3 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1 tsp white pepper; 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

30 min4315 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Day‑Old Rice Crisp

“Use day‑old jasmine rice that’s been spread on a tray to dry for at least ten minutes, then toss it into a scorching wok and press lightly with the spatula. This technique drives off surface moisture, allowing the grains to caramelize and develop the signature crispy edges of authentic fried rice.”

About This Recipe

Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a dish that truly embodies the spirit of Canadian home cooking. It’s a delightful fusion of tender, juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection with aromatic ginger and garlic. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight, yet you crave something comforting and satisfying. The balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness from honey or brown sugar makes each bite burst with flavor, bringing a taste of Asian-inspired goodness to your dinner table.

What makes this recipe particularly special is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for spontaneous gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. Canadian home cooks love this dish not just for its ease, but also for how it turns simple ingredients into a hearty meal that everyone enjoys. With every mouthful, you’ll taste the care and love that makes this Easy Chicken Fried Rice a cherished family favourite.

Tips for the Best Easy Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve the best texture and flavour in your Easy Chicken Fried Rice, ensure your rice is cooked and cooled beforehand. Day-old rice works wonders as it has dried out slightly, preventing mushiness. When stir-frying, use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can trap moisture and lead to steaming instead of frying. For perfectly cooked chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to keep it juicy and tender.

What to Serve With It

For a complete meal, serve your Easy Chicken Fried Rice with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar for a refreshing crunch. You could even pair it with some crispy spring rolls for a delightful contrast in textures. A chilled glass of iced green tea or a light lager complements the dish beautifully, rounding off a satisfying dinner that brings the family together.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Easy Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil to the pan to prevent dryness and ensure even heating. If you want to freeze it, portion it out in freezer-safe bags, and it will keep well for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Nutrition Per Serving

315

Calories

24g

Protein

12g

Fat

28g

Carbs

Fiber2g

Sugar7g

Sodium473mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?+

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work perfectly in Easy Chicken Fried Rice. Just add them to the pan after the chicken is cooked, allowing them to heat through without losing their crunch. This is a great time-saver and adds vibrant color to your dish.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?+

Jasmine rice is an excellent choice for fried rice due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. However, any long-grain rice will work well. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled beforehand to avoid a mushy final dish!

How can I make this dish spicier?+

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding some diced chili peppers or a splash of sriracha sauce while stir-frying. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top during serving for an extra layer of heat that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?+

Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose to ensure it’s cooked through.

Why is my fried rice sticking together?+

If your fried rice is sticking together, it’s likely due to using freshly cooked rice. Using day-old rice that has been refrigerated helps to dry it out a bit, resulting in a better texture that won’t clump together when fried.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

15 min

Cook:

15 min

Total:

30 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Day-old refrigerated rice is essential — fresh warm rice will turn mushy. Spread hot rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered for at least 2 hours if you don't have leftovers.
2Keep the heat high throughout and work quickly. The constant high temperature creates the characteristic smoky 'wok hei' flavor that makes fried rice taste like restaurant quality.
3Don't overcrowd the wok. If you need to double the recipe, cook in two batches to maintain proper heat and prevent steaming instead of frying.
4Prepare and measure all ingredients before you start cooking — once the wok is hot, everything moves fast and you won't have time to chop or measure.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or diced pork loin for the chicken, adjusting cooking time accordingly (shrimp needs only 2-3 minutes).
Add 100g of diced red bell pepper and 50g of corn kernels for extra color and sweetness.
Make it spicy by stirring in 1-2 teaspoons of sambal oelek or sriracha with the soy sauce.

Asian-Inspired Chicken