Craving the irresistible taste of authentic Chinese chicken fried rice? Forget takeout – this recipe unlocks the secrets to creating restaurant-quality fried rice at home. We’ll guide you through mastering the perfect fluffy rice, the savory depth of the chicken, and the vibrant symphony of vegetables that elevate this classic dish. Forget bland, reheated leftovers; this recipe delivers the fragrant, flavorful experience you expect from your favorite Chinese restaurant. We'll teach you the crucial techniques to ensure each grain is separate and perfectly cooked, and the chicken is juicy and tender.
This isn't just another fried rice recipe; it's a journey into the heart of Chinese cuisine, teaching you the nuances that separate good fried rice from truly exceptional fried rice. From prepping the ingredients for maximum flavor to the perfect wok hei (breath of the wok), we’ve got you covered. Ready to transform your weeknight meal into a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 400g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: to taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic cloves: 3, smashed
- Lime: 1/2
- Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons
- Oil: 9 tablespoons (6 + 3)
- Eggs: 3
- Onion: 1/2, sliced
- Green beans: to taste
- Carrot: 1/2
- Yellow bell pepper: 1/2
- Green bell pepper: 1/2
- Red bell pepper: 1/2
- Cabbage: 1/2
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups
- Sugar: a pinch
- Soy sauce: 8 tablespoons
- Chives: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Cut chicken breast into cubes. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and smashed garlic. Mix well.
- Squeeze half a lime over the chicken.
- Add cornstarch and mix well.
- Fry chicken pieces in a hot pan with oil until brown. Set aside.
Step 2. Stir-fry Vegetables and Eggs
- In another pan, fry 4 chopped garlic cloves in 6 tablespoons of oil for 1 minute.
- Add 3 eggs, break the yolks, and fry.
- Add sliced onion, green beans, half a carrot, half a yellow bell pepper, half a green bell pepper, half a red bell pepper, and half a cabbage. Mix and fry for 5 minutes.
Step 3. Combine Rice and Seasonings
- Add rice, salt, sugar, and soy sauce. Mix well.
- Add the fried chicken to the pan.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add chives to taste and mix everything well.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- This recipe is from the owner of a Chinese restaurant!
- Adjust the amount of vegetables to your liking.
- This rice is a huge hit and usually gets finished quickly!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rice is actually preferred for fried rice as it's drier and less likely to become mushy.
2. What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Both light and dark soy sauce can be used. Light soy sauce provides saltiness and color, while dark soy sauce adds depth of flavor and a richer brown color.
3. How do I achieve that 'wok hei' flavor?
High heat is key! Use a wok or large skillet over high heat and stir-fry ingredients quickly. This creates a smoky, slightly charred flavor.
So there you have it – your ticket to restaurant-quality Chinese chicken fried rice, made effortlessly in your own kitchen. This recipe, packed with flavor and simple techniques, is sure to become a new family favorite. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills!