Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Skip the takeout and make this quick, budget-friendly chicken fried rice at home! With simple ingredients and just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for dinner with plenty of leftovers for the next day. Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Proteins
• Grains
• Oils and Sauces
• Vegetables
• Eggs
• How to Make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Heat the Skillet
• Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
• Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
• Step 4: Combine the Mixture
• Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce
• Step 7: Optional Garnish
• How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Meal Presentation
• How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this chicken fried rice better than takeout?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white?
• How do I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?
• What are some great add-ins for this chicken fried rice?
• Can I meal prep this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover chicken and rice minimizes food waste while keeping costs down.
• Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
• Great for Leftovers: Make a big batch that stores well in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more efficient. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium skillet or wok: This is crucial for even cooking and allows you to stir-fry effectively.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps in easily flipping and mixing ingredients without damaging them.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring safety in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:

Proteins

• 1 lb chicken, cooked and shredded

Grains

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably leftover or cooled)

Oils and Sauces

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (add more if desired)

Vegetables

• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional)

Eggs

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

How to Make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Preheat a medium skillet or wok over medium heat. This step ensures that your ingredients will sizzle nicely when added.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sesame oil, diced onion, and peas/carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 4: Combine the Mixture

Stir the scrambled eggs together with the cooked vegetables. Ensure they are evenly mixed for consistent flavor.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice

Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly with the egg and vegetable mixture.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Taste your fried rice and add more soy sauce if desired for additional flavor.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If using, stir in chopped green onions before serving immediately. This adds a fresh crunch that enhances your meal!

Enjoy your homemade Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice, packed with flavor and convenience!

How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is easy and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other delightful sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the fried rice for a burst of flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
• Chili Flakes: For those who like it spicy, a sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the dish.

Accompaniments

• Soy Sauce: Serve with extra soy sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
• Hot Sauce: A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can add a kick that many love.
• Pickled Vegetables: Provide tangy pickled vegetables as a refreshing contrast to the savory rice.

Meal Presentation

• Plating: Serve the chicken fried rice in bowls for individual portions or on a large platter for sharing.
• Color Contrast: Pair with colorful garnishes like sliced bell peppers or radishes to make the dish visually appealing.

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How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

To ensure your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is perfect, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Rice: Prepare rice ahead of time and cool it in the fridge. This prevents clumping and helps achieve that perfect texture.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook at medium-high heat to get that ideal stir-fry char without steaming the ingredients.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to maintain heat and achieve even cooking.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add different proteins or vegetables based on your preference.
• Taste Test Early: Adjust seasoning early on by tasting as you go, ensuring balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp add a delightful crunch to your meal.
2. Egg Drop Soup: This light and flavorful soup complements fried rice perfectly, providing warmth and comfort.
3. Stir-Fried Broccoli: A simple stir-fry of broccoli offers a fresh, healthy side that’s quick to prepare.
4. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings with your choice of filling make for an excellent addition.
5. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers dressed in soy sauce and sesame oil cuts through the richness of fried rice.
6. Miso Soup: Warm miso soup adds depth and umami, making it a soothing companion to your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky. Always use leftover or cooled rice for perfect fried rice.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until tender for a crisp texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough soy sauce can lead to bland flavors. Adjust the soy sauce to your taste preference.
• Neglecting to scramble eggs properly: If you don’t scramble eggs well, they won’t blend into the dish evenly. Be sure to mix them thoroughly with the other ingredients.
• Not adding variety: Sticking to just chicken and peas can limit flavor. Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. You may add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this chicken fried rice better than takeout?

This recipe uses fresher ingredients and allows you to customize flavors, making it tastier than typical takeout options.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes! Brown rice is a nutritious alternative that works well in this recipe, offering a nuttier flavor.

How do I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?

Simply substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for flavor.

What are some great add-ins for this chicken fried rice?

You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition in your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just make sure to store it properly.

Final Thoughts

Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for dinner and makes excellent leftovers. Try it today and enjoy homemade goodness!