Chicken fried rice is one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance between comforting and nutritious. What draws so many people to this recipe is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients—like cooked brown rice and tender chicken—into a vibrant meal bursting with flavor and texture.
It’s no wonder it’s searched for so often by those wanting quick, wholesome dinners that don’t sacrifice taste. One thing that always helped me master this dish was learning the importance of using day-old rice or properly cooled rice to prevent mushiness.
That little cooking tip makes all the difference. The toasted sesame oil adds a delicate nuttiness that elevates the whole dish, while the colorful mix of carrots, peas, and green onions adds both crunch and freshness.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and health benefits—using brown rice boosts fiber and nutrients, helping you feel fuller longer and supporting better digestion.
Studies show that whole grains like brown rice can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 21%, making this meal as good for your heart as it is for your taste buds.
Serve it alongside a refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad and a chilled Lemonade Recipe to round out a perfectly balanced meal.
Simple, satisfying, and packed with wholesome goodness.
The Secret to Loving Every Bite!
- Super Flexible for Busy Days: I appreciate how easily I can swap ingredients based on what’s in my fridge, making it a lifesaver on hectic weeknights.
- Brown Rice Boosts Nutrition: Switching to brown rice lets me enjoy fried rice with more fiber and nutrients, without losing that comforting, familiar taste.
- Protein-Packed with a Simple Egg: Stirring in a scrambled egg adds a satisfying, soft texture and a protein boost that keeps me full longer.
- Irresistible Aroma from Sesame Oil: The toasted sesame oil not only flavors the dish but fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting scent every time I cook.
- Healthy Yet Delicious: This recipe fits perfectly with my wellness goals—it’s wholesome, flavorful, and never feels like a sacrifice on taste.
Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Bowl (for scrambling eggs)
Ingredients
- 3 cups brown rice cooked
- 3/4 pound chicken breast boneless, skinless cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil divided use
- 1 egg scrambled
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or more to taste
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- sliced green onions for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat half the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and sauté chopped onions and carrots until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Push vegetables to one side, scramble the egg on the other side until cooked, then mix everything together.
- Add cooked brown rice, frozen peas, and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Pour soy sauce and toasted sesame oil over the mixture, stirring well to evenly coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve hot.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 360kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 528mg |
My Secret Tips For Maximum Flavor!
1. Use Day-Old Rice for Perfect Texture:
Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy when stir-fried. For that restaurant-style slightly chewy texture, use cold, day-old brown rice. Spread it out on a tray and refrigerate for a few hours if you’re short on time.
2. Sear the Chicken—Don’t Steam It:
When you toss in the chicken, make sure your pan is hot and the pieces aren’t crowded. Let them brown a little before flipping. That bit of sear adds a smoky, almost grilled flavor that takes the dish up a notch.
3. Add Soy Sauce to the Pan’s Edges:
Instead of pouring soy sauce directly over the rice, drizzle it along the hot edges of the pan. It caramelizes slightly before mixing in and adds deeper umami without making the rice soggy.
4. Let the Rice Sit Before Stirring:
Once all ingredients are in the pan, resist the urge to constantly stir. Letting the rice sit for a minute helps develop crispy golden bits—a signature touch of great fried rice.
5. Finish With a Quick Toss of Fresh Green Onions:
Instead of cooking green onions in, toss them in right before serving. This keeps them bright and punchy, giving the dish a fresh contrast to the savory base.
6. Customize Texture With Mixed Cuts of Veggies:
Try blending soft peas with crunchier elements like bell peppers or shredded cabbage. The textural contrast makes each bite more interesting and balanced.
