Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

If you’ve ever dined at your favorite Asian restaurant and savored their Chicken Fried Rice, you know just how satisfying and delicious it can be. The good news is that you can recreate that same delightful experience right in your own kitchen! This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice recipe is packed with flavor, features tender chicken, and is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. Let’s dive in and whip up a batch that will have your family and friends raving!

What Makes This Recipe Special

The secret to a truly exceptional Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The combination of fluffy brown rice, succulent chicken, and vibrant veggies creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Using chilled rice helps achieve that perfect stir-fried texture, while the addition of sesame oil brings a nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice, 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 and thawed)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons lite soy sauce (or optional gluten-free tamari)
• 2 large eggs

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying your ingredients evenly.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in tossing and mixing without breaking the rice.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients before cooking.

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started on making this delicious Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by ensuring that your brown rice is cooked and chilled. This is a crucial step; freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Dice your onions, thaw the frozen carrots and peas, and shred the cooked chicken.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place your large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Allow it to heat until it shimmers, which will enhance the flavor of the oil.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced onions to the hot oil. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become translucent. The aroma of sautéing onions will fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the thawed carrots and peas. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and tender.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing them to intermingle beautifully.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Now, it’s time to add the chilled brown rice. Use your spatula to break up any clumps and mix everything together. This is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Season the Dish

Pour the lite soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari) over the rice mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference. Keep stir-frying for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 8: Scramble the Eggs

Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked. Then, fold the scrambled eggs into the rice.

Step 9: Final Touches

Give one final stir to combine everything thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and serve hot!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to enjoy this dish while keeping it low-carb or keto-friendly, here are some alternatives:

• Cauliflower rice: Swap the brown rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Chicken thighs: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Additional veggies: Add more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
• Eggs: Eggs are already keto-friendly; you can add extra for more protein.

Chef’s Rationale

The beauty of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice lies in its versatility. Whether you’re using leftovers or fresh ingredients, this dish can adapt to your pantry. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Flavorful Base: The sesame oil adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Protein-Packed: With shredded chicken and eggs, this dish offers a good balance of protein.
• Colorful Veggies: The variety of vegetables not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish visually appealing.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and rewarm it:

Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir until heated through.

Common Qs About Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is more nutritious, making it a great choice for this recipe.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can use vegetable oil or olive oil as a substitute, although they won’t provide the same nutty flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and eggs and replace them with tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I spice it up?

Add some sriracha, chili paste, or red pepper flakes to give your fried rice an extra kick!

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you’re looking for more healthy-ish recipes, check out these favorites:

• Quinoa Fried Rice
• Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
• Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

In Closing

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of your favorite Asian restaurant right to your home. With its simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this dish will impress and satisfy. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy a delightful homemade feast that’s bound to become a favorite in your household!