Easy Chicken Fried Rice – A Quick & Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Craving takeout but want something homemade and healthier? This Easy Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect solution! Made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and savory seasonings, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate one-pan meal, packed with flavor and ideal for busy weeknights. Once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to ordering takeout!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all ingredients are chopped and ready to go. Day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly golden.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Sauté the onions for about 2 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the garlic, peas, and carrots, stirring for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space.
2. Let them cook for a few seconds, then scramble until just set.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked rice and chicken back into the pan.
2. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper.
3. Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Let the rice fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chicken fried rice!

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Tips & Notes

✅ Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice tends to be too soft for frying. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread hot rice on a tray and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
✅ Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms for more variety.
✅ Make it Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect balance of savory, hearty, and satisfying flavors—all in just one pan! It’s quick, budget-friendly, and a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of homemade takeout! ✨