Craving takeout but don't want the delivery fees or the questionable ingredients? Then get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy Chinese chicken fried rice recipe! This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor and texture right in your own kitchen, without the complicated techniques or endless ingredient lists. We're talking perfectly fluffy rice, savory chicken, and vibrant vegetables all coming together in a symphony of deliciousness. Forget about greasy, bland takeout – this recipe is your ticket to a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times. This easy-to-follow guide provides a step-by-step process, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-worthy results. From prepping the ingredients to mastering the perfect wok hei (that smoky, slightly charred flavor), we'll walk you through every stage, empowering you to create your own amazing chicken fried rice masterpiece. Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Corn starch: 1 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil
- Baking powder: a pinch
- Eggs: 2
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1/4 cup
- Green beans: 1/3 cup
- Carrot: 1/2 cup
- Day-old rice
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dark soy sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Salt
- Pepper
- Spring onion
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics
- Cut chicken into small pieces. Mix with corn starch, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and baking powder. Set aside for 30 minutes.
- Add garlic, onion, green beans, and carrot. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Rice and Vegetables
- Beat two eggs well.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet. Add eggs and cook until fluffy (30-50 seconds). Break into small pieces and set aside.
- Add more oil to the wok. Add chicken and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Push to the side.
- Add salt to taste and mix well.
- Add day-old rice to the wok. Break up any large clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes.
- Add light soy sauce and dark soy sauce. Mix quickly to prevent sticking.
Step 3. Stir-fry and Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and egg. Toss together for 2 minutes.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with spring onion before serving.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Adding baking powder to the chicken keeps it juicy.
- Use fresh vegetables for better flavor.
- Day-old rice is best for fried rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 70-80g
- Protein: 30-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it's shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the fried rice.
2. What if I don't have a wok?
A large, non-stick skillet will work just fine! You might not get quite the same 'wok hei' (smoky flavor), but the fried rice will still be delicious.
So there you have it – restaurant-quality chicken fried rice made effortlessly at home! Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal any night of the week, impressing yourself and your loved ones with minimal effort. Now go forth and conquer your fried rice cravings!