Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

This Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style) is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. It combines the deliciousness of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all sautéed together with rich flavors that remind you of your favorite hibachi restaurant. Not only is it simple to make, but it also allows you to customize it based on what’s in your fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter creates a rich taste that elevates this dish to restaurant quality.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike enjoy this comforting dish, making it a great choice for family meals.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your delicious Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style), gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wide cooking surface allows for even heat distribution and better tossing of ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: These tools are essential for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: A sturdy board provides a safe place to chop ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Rice

• 1 ½ teaspoons sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon, divided)
• ¾ pound chicken breasts (cut into very small pieces, roughly half of bite-sized)
• 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (divided)
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• salt (to taste)
• pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup diced white onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups cooked rice (cool to touch, see Notes)
• sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This ensures you have everything ready when you start cooking.

Step 2: Heat Oils in Wok

1. Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sesame oil and neutral oil. Allow them to heat for about a minute until shimmering.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the chopped chicken pieces to the hot oils.
2. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Onions

1. Stir in the diced onions and frozen mixed vegetables.
2. Sauté until the onions are translucent and vegetables are heated through, around 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Scramble Eggs

1. Push the chicken mixture to one side of the wok.
2. In the empty space, add a bit more oil if necessary, then crack in the eggs.
3. Scramble until fully cooked before mixing everything together.

Step 6: Combine with Rice

1. Add the cooled cooked rice to the pan.
2. Pour in half of the soy sauce and half of the butter; mix thoroughly until combined.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

1. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the mixture.
2. Add remaining soy sauce and butter; stir well to incorporate all flavors evenly.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds if desired before serving hot as a main course or side dish.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

Easy Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Garnishes

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh flavor and appealing color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nice crunch and nutty taste.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and adds zest.

Complement with Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer low-sodium soy sauce on the side for extra seasoning.
• Sriracha: For those who enjoy spice, sriracha brings heat and flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds sweetness and tanginess, perfect for dipping.

Add Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Serve grilled chicken skewers alongside for added protein.
• Shrimp: Adding sautéed shrimp can enhance the dish’s seafood flavors.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu works wonderfully with fried rice.

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How to Perfect Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

To achieve restaurant-style fried rice at home, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, day-old rice prevents clumping and ensures fluffy grains.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking on high heat allows for quick frying, which gives that authentic hibachi taste.
• Prep Ingredients First: Having all ingredients prepped and ready speeds up the cooking process.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the rice instead of frying it.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

Pair your Easy Chicken Fried Rice with some delightful side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Egg Rolls: Crunchy and filled with vegetables, egg rolls make a classic pairing.
2. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these rolls offer a refreshing contrast to fried rice.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: The bold flavors of this soup complement the savory notes of the fried rice.
4. Asian Salad: A vibrant salad with sesame dressing adds freshness and nutrition to your meal.
5. Wonton Soup: Soft wontons in broth make for a comforting addition alongside fried rice.
6. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings are always a hit with fried rice lovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style). Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using cold rice: Cold rice can become clumpy and mushy. Always use rice that is cooled to room temperature or day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once can lead to uneven frying. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each ingredient to fry properly.
• Not seasoning enough: A bland fried rice is disappointing. Make sure to season with enough soy sauce and adjust to your taste throughout cooking.
• Skipping the prep: Being unprepared can slow you down. Chop all ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process.
• Neglecting high heat: Cooking on low heat won’t give that authentic flavor. Use high heat for a quick stir-fry, which locks in flavors beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and stir-fry until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to making this delicious dish.

How can I make Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style) vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Adjust soy sauce accordingly for flavor.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine or long-grain white rice works best as it’s less sticky and gives a perfect texture when stir-fried.

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or even plant-based proteins work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored easily in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Fried Rice (Restaurant-Style) is not only quick and fun to make but also offers endless customization options. Whether you want to add more vegetables or swap out proteins, it’s adaptable to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!