Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies

Ah, Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies! This dish brings back so many wonderful memories for me. I can vividly recall my mom whipping up this delightful meal on busy weeknights. With her trusty wok sizzling away, the aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the air always made me feel right at home. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also fills your heart—reminding me of family dinners and happy moments.

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or what veggies you’re craving. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken—anything to save time, am I right? Let’s dive into making this scrumptious Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies!

What’s in Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies?

Cooked Chicken: The star of the dish! I prefer using shredded rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones before you start cooking.

Rice: Day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s less sticky, but if you don’t have any, just cool freshly cooked rice on a tray to release steam.

Vegetables: You can go wild here! I usually toss in peas and carrots for classic flavor, but feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or even leftover veggies from the fridge.

Soy Sauce: This savory sauce adds the perfect umami flavor. I love using low-sodium soy sauce so I can control the saltiness of the dish.

Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are key for that aromatic punch. Trust me; they make a world of difference in taste!

Eggs: Slightly scrambled and mixed in, eggs add richness and protein, making this dish more filling.

Green Onions: Don’t forget these for that fresh finish! They not only brighten up the dish but also add a nice crunch.

Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle at the end gives an irresistible nuttiness that brings everything together beautifully.

Is Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies Good for You?

Yes, it absolutely can be! The dish is loaded with nutritious ingredients, especially if you pile in a variety of vegetables.

Chicken: It’s a lean source of protein that helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Just keep an eye on the portions to ensure you’re not overdoing it on quantities.

Rice: Although it can be high in carbs, using brown rice instead of white is a great alternative for added fiber and nutrients.

Veggies: These little powerhouses bring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants along for the ride. The more color on your plate, the better!

But! Be mindful of the soy sauce; it can be high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium versions, and you can easily make a healthier fried rice that tastes just as good, if not better!

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies

– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (like rotisserie chicken)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers – whatever you fancy!)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, minced
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

*Serves 4*

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies?

1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Push the garlic and ginger to one side of the pan, and pour the beaten eggs into the open space. Scramble them until fully cooked, and then combine with the garlic and ginger.
4. Toss in the cooked chicken and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, heating it through.
5. Now, add the mixed vegetables. If using frozen veggies, make sure they are thawed ahead of time or add them earlier so they cook properly.
6. Next up, add the rice! Break up any clumps with your spatula and mix everything together.
7. Drizzle with soy sauce and stir until evenly distributed. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
8. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Fried Rice Fun Tips!

– If you love a little heat, add some chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking!
– Switch it up with shrimp or tofu as your protein of choice.
– This dish is great when served with a side of steamed dumplings or a simple salad.
– If you want to make it a one-pan dish, add some raw veggies in step 5, letting them cook alongside your rice.

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Fried Rice with Veggies as much as I do! It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun cooking adventure on the weekend. Remember to share your experiences and any changes you made—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!