Name: Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled); 2 cups boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thigh meat (cooked and shredded); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2/3 cup sweet onions (diced); 1 cup carrots (diced (frozen and thawed)); 1 cup peas (frozen (thawed)); 3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce or gluten-free tamari; 2 large eggs

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There’s something about a plate of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice that just feels like home. It’s the perfect combination of savory flavors, tender chicken, and wholesome vegetables, all wrapped up in fluffy rice. This dish is not only a fantastic way to use up leftover rice but also a delightful way to bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s incredibly versatile, meaning you can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal. The best part? You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences, whether you like it mild or with a kick. I love how this dish brings joy to my family’s dinner table, and I know it will do the same for you!

Shopping List

To make this fantastic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 cups brown rice, cooked and chilled
2 cups boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thigh meat, cooked and shredded
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2/3 cup sweet onions, diced
1 cup carrots, diced (frozen and thawed)
1 cup peas, frozen (thawed)
3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce or gluten-free tamari
2 large eggs

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before we start cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools:

Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying at high heat.
Spatula: For tossing and mixing the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Chopping board and knife: For prepping your vegetables.

Method: Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that your brown rice is cooked and chilled, as this will help it fry better without becoming mushy. Chop your onions, thaw your peas and carrots, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large wok or skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s ready for stir-frying.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced sweet onions to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the thawed carrots and peas. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to heat through and slightly soften.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the pan, mixing it with the vegetables. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm up and absorb some of the flavors.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to add the chilled brown rice. Break up any clumps and mix it thoroughly with the chicken and vegetables. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution.

Step 7: Season with Soy Sauce

Drizzle the lite soy sauce or gluten-free tamari over the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure every grain of rice is coated. Adjust the soy sauce according to your taste preference; start with 3 tablespoons and add more if desired.

Step 8: Scramble the Eggs

Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan, creating space for the eggs. Crack the eggs into the cleared area and scramble them until fully cooked. Once done, mix the scrambled eggs into the rice.

Step 9: Final Stir and Serve

Give everything a good final stir, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and enjoy your delightful plate of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Brown rice can be swapped for white rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Chicken can be replaced with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add bell peppers, broccoli, or any other seasonal vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free alternative.

Cook’s Commentary

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is excellent for meal prep! Make a big batch and store it in individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Feel free to experiment with different proteins such as shrimp or beef, making it versatile for any occasion.
The key to achieving that restaurant-quality texture is using chilled rice. Freshly cooked rice can become sticky, so plan ahead!
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes for some spice.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
For best results, add a splash of water when reheating to help steam the rice back to its fluffy texture.

Common Questions

Can I use day-old rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice dishes as it has dried out a bit, preventing the dish from becoming mushy.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or olive oil. However, sesame oil adds a unique flavor, so try to use it if you can.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

What other proteins can I use?

You can use any protein you like, such as shrimp, beef, or even eggs as the main protein source. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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Bring It Home

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and delightful flavors make it a dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen! Enjoy every bite as you savor the essence of restaurant-style dining from the comfort of your home.

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