Name: Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups brown rice (cooked, chilled); 2 cups chicken (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 (thawed)); 1 cup peas (frozen (thawed)); 3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce (optional gluten-free tamari); 2 eggs eggs (large)

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There’s something truly comforting about a big bowl of Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice. Whenever I think of this dish, I’m transported back to my favorite local eatery, where the aroma of sizzling vegetables and savory chicken fills the air. My family and I would often gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the moment our steaming plates arrived. This chicken fried rice has always been a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly blending the flavors of tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes any meal feel special. Over the years, I’ve perfected my version of this classic, ensuring it captures that authentic restaurant experience right in my kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Skillet

Why This Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice Stands Out

Authentic Flavor

One of the best parts about making Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice at home is that you can control the flavors. Using fresh ingredients like onions, carrots, and peas enhances the taste and adds a burst of color to the dish. The use of sesame oil brings a nutty richness that elevates every bite.

Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Once you have everything prepped, you can have a delicious meal ready in just minutes. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or rice, saving you both time and ingredients.

Customizable

One of the great things about chicken fried rice is that it’s incredibly versatile. Want to add some crunch? Toss in a handful of cashews or peanuts. Prefer it spicy? A dash of chili flakes or sriracha can do the trick. You can easily make this dish your own, adapting it to suit your tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to meal prep, Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent choice. It stores well in the fridge and is great for reheating. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Family Favorite

Kids and adults alike enjoy this dish. It’s a fun way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables without even realizing it! With the flavorful soy sauce and sesame oil, they’ll be asking for seconds.

Ingredients Overview for Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice

The ingredients for Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice are simple yet vital for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role: the rice forms the hearty base, while the chicken adds protein and richness. Fresh vegetables provide color and crunch, and the soy sauce ties everything together with a savory kick. Together, they create a dish that’s not only delicious but also satisfying.

Brown rice: 4 cups of cooked and chilled brown rice serves as the hearty foundation for the dish, providing a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Chicken: 2 cups of boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thigh meat, cooked and shredded, add protein and moisture, making the dish filling.
Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons of sesame oil brings a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste and aroma of the fried rice.
Sweet onions: 2/3 cup of diced sweet onions offer a subtle sweetness, balancing the savory elements of the dish.
Carrots: 1 cup of diced, frozen carrots (thawed) contribute color, sweetness, and a slight crunch.
Peas: 1 cup of frozen peas (thawed) provide a pop of color and a tender bite, complementing the other ingredients.
Soy sauce: 3 to 4 tablespoons of lite soy sauce or optional gluten-free tamari are essential for seasoning, adding depth and umami flavor.
Eggs: 2 large eggs are scrambled into the rice for added richness and texture.

Recipe Directions for Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice

Cooking Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful process that creates a warm, comforting meal. Follow along as I guide you through each step to create this delicious dish.

Start by adding sesame oil to a large skillet over medium-low heat. Allow it to warm up before adding the diced onions, peas, and carrots. Sauté them for about 10 minutes until they become tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the eggs. In a separate bowl, add 2 tablespoons of water to the eggs and whisk them together with a fork until fully combined. Set them aside for later.
Once the vegetables are tender, increase the skillet’s temperature to medium heat. Next, add the chicken and chilled brown rice to the skillet. Stir everything together until the mixture is heated through, allowing the rice to soak up the flavors from the sesame oil and vegetables.
Push the fried rice mixture over to one side of the skillet, creating space for the scrambled eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared area and let them sit for a few moments until they start to set. Gently scramble the eggs, breaking them into smaller pieces as they cook.
Once the eggs are cooked through, mix them into the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Add the soy sauce to the frying pan, starting with 3 tablespoons. Stir it in thoroughly, ensuring that every grain of rice is coated with the delicious sauce. Adjust the soy sauce according to your taste preference.
Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. At this point, taste the fried rice and make any necessary adjustments, such as adding more soy sauce or seasoning to your liking.
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade fried rice, relishing the flavors and textures that make this dish a family favorite!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, whereas day-old rice dries out slightly, making it perfect for frying.
High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps to achieve that signature fried rice flavor. It allows the rice to get a bit crispy, enhancing the overall taste.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of frying.
Season Gradually: Start with less soy sauce and adjust to your taste. It’s easier to add more than to fix an overly salty dish.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make your experience with Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice even better, consider the following tips:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze this fried rice for up to three months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help release the steam.
Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Protein Options: You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a delightful twist.
Spice Level: If you enjoy a kick, add some chili flakes or sriracha while cooking for a spicy flavor.

What Complements This Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice

When serving Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice, consider pairing it with a variety of sides and dishes to round out the meal. Here are some ideas:

Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls make a great appetizer that complements the fried rice beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful stir-fried vegetables adds freshness and a burst of color to your meal.
Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup pairs wonderfully with fried rice, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
Asian Salads: A simple cucumber or cabbage salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: For an extra protein boost, serve grilled chicken skewers alongside the fried rice.
Dim Sum: Little bites of dumplings or buns can be a fantastic addition, creating a feast.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using leftover rice for Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice is actually recommended. Day-old rice has had time to dry out a bit, which prevents it from becoming mushy when you fry it. Just ensure that the rice is chilled and stored properly before use, and you’ll have delicious fried rice.

You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Breasts are leaner, while thighs provide a bit more flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice. For a more flavorful dish, consider using thighs. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference!

Yes, Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Be sure to check the labels on your other ingredients as well, especially the chicken and any sauces you use. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal that meets your dietary restrictions.

Definitely! One of the best things about fried rice is its versatility. Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or even some leafy greens. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something familiar and comforting. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying it is. Enjoy every bite!