There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of crispy chicken fried rice to bring warmth on a chilly evening! This recipe brings back fond memories of college nights spent together with friends, whipping up meals that would fill our bellies and make our tiny apartment feel like home. We would toss everything into one pan, cranking up the music, and before we knew it, we were laughing and chatting over a delicious, budget-friendly meal.
What I love about this crispy chicken fried rice recipe is how versatile it is. It’s one of those dishes where you can use leftover chicken and veggies, making it perfect for cleaning out the fridge. Plus, the satisfying crunch of the chicken on top just elevates the whole dish! Are you ready to join me in this culinary adventure?
What’s in Crispy Chicken Fried Rice?
Cooked Chicken: Any leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works great here. The more seasoned, the better! I usually prefer dark meat for more flavor, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice since it’s dried out a bit and won’t turn mushy. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook fresh rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 30 minutes.
Vegetables: I love a mix of carrots, peas, and green onions for that classic touch. Fresh veggies brighten up the dish, and you can adjust the amounts to your taste.
Soy Sauce: This is the magic ingredient that ties all the flavors together. I prefer low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option, but regular works just as well!
Sesame Oil: Just a dash of this fragrant oil goes a long way in adding that delightful Asian flavor profile. It’s a pantry staple in my kitchen!
Eggs: A scrambled egg or two adds protein and creaminess. Make sure to scramble them separately for those lovely bits of golden goodness!
Is Crispy Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
When it comes to crispy chicken fried rice, there are definitely some health benefits to consider!
Chicken: It’s a great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair body tissue. Pair that with the array of veggies, and you’ve got bowl packed with nutrients.
Vegetables: The mix of carrots, peas, and green onions brings in vitamins and minerals without extra fat. Plus, the colorful veggies give it a fresh appeal!
However, it’s worth noting that soy sauce can be high in sodium, which is something I try to keep in mind. You could also consider using tamari or coconut aminos as a lower-sodium alternative.
After all, everything in moderation, right? Especially if it tastes this delicious!
Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Fried Rice (Serves 4)
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
– 4 cups day-old rice (or freshly cooked and cooled)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn – whatever you like!)
– 4 green onions, chopped
– 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Rice?
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they’re fully cooked. Remove and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if necessary, then toss in the cooked chicken and allow it to warm up for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add in your mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they’re vibrant and tender.
5. Next, dump in the rice. Use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir everything together and allow it to fry for about 4-5 minutes.
6. Pour the soy sauce all over the rice and mix well. Finally, fold in the scrambled eggs and green onions.
7. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving!
Creative Serving Suggestions for Crispy Chicken Fried Rice
You’ve made this beautiful dish – let’s take it up a notch for serving! I like to serve my fried rice in big wooden bowls and top it with extra green onions and sesame seeds for that restaurant-style flair.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha or chili garlic sauce adds a spicy kick. You could even pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed dumplings for a complete meal!
Now that you know how to make this delicious crispy chicken fried rice, I encourage you to give it a try! It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. Let me know how yours turns out or any fun twists you add – I love hearing about your culinary creations! Happy cooking!