April’s Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Flavorful and Easy!

Chicken fried rice is one of those go-to comfort foods that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe, known as April’s Chicken Fried Rice, has a special place in my kitchen because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. Whether I’m using leftover rice or cooking up a fresh batch, it’s a dish that never disappoints. April’s Chicken Fried Rice is loaded with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory blend of seasonings, making it the perfect one-pan meal for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love April’s Chicken Fried Rice

This chicken fried rice recipe is more than just a weeknight meal; it’s a way to turn simple ingredients into a delicious dish that the whole family loves. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, from tender chicken to crisp vegetables and flavorful rice, it’s satisfying and customizable. Plus, it’s quick to make, and with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty and nutritious meal.

Recipe Overview

Dish Name

April’s Chicken Fried Rice

Description

A quick and tasty fried rice dish made with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce. Perfect for busy nights or when you need a flavorful one-pan meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions

Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. Substitute frozen mixed vegetables if you don’t have peas and carrots. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more veggies like bell peppers and broccoli.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Pour in the beaten eggs, stirring quickly to scramble. Once cooked, move the eggs to the side of the pan.
3. Add the diced onion to the pan, cooking until it begins to soften, about 2 minutes. Add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the cooked rice. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe serves about 4 people. Serve April’s Chicken Fried Rice as a main dish or pair it with a light side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a delicious, Asian-inspired meal.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the stovetop method helps keep the rice from becoming mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh rice for fried rice?

Yes, but chilled rice works best as it’s less likely to become sticky. If using freshly cooked rice, try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or drizzle some sriracha over the finished dish for extra heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Fried rice is very adaptable, so feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to suit your taste.

Conclusion

April’s Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner that’s flavorful, easy to make, and loved by all. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and seasoned rice makes for a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your own versions in the comments below. Enjoy your cooking, and stay tuned for more delicious recipes!