Chicken fried rice recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, cold day-old rice, fresh vegetables, and savory soy sauce, this homemade fried rice tastes even better than takeout. It's an easy dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.
Why you'll love this recipe
- ✓Ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner.
- ✓Better than takeout with fresh ingredients and bold homemade flavor.
- ✓Made in one pan for easy cooking and minimal cleanup.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Yield
4
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, cold day-old rice
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breast, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- 1Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- 2Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan, pour in the beaten eggs, and scramble quickly until just set. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- 3Add the remaining oil, then the peas, carrots, and garlic; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- 4Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through and starting to crisp in spots.
- 5Return the chicken and eggs to the pan, add the green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
Notes & Tips
- Cold, day-old rice is essential — fresh rice is too moist and turns mushy.
- Keep the heat high throughout for that slightly charred, restaurant-style flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but let it cool completely and refrigerate it for at least an hour before cooking for the best results..
What is the best chicken for fried rice?
Boneless chicken thighs provide the most flavor, while chicken breast is a leaner option.
What vegetables go well in chicken fried rice?
Peas, carrots, corn, broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, and green onions all work well.

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