After a hectic day, the last thing I want is to spend forever cooking dinner. That’s when this Quick Chicken Fried Rice recipe saves the night! There’s something so satisfying about the sizzling sound as tender chicken and fresh veggies hit the pan, mingling with fragrant garlic and soy sauce. In just about 20 minutes, you get a flavorful, cozy meal that feels homemade but comes together faster than takeout. Whether you’re reviving leftover rice or craving a no-fuss dish packed with protein and colors, this recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite. Let me show you how easy it is to whip up a crowd-pleasing favorite that never gets old.
Why choose Quick Chicken Fried Rice?
Speed and simplicity: Ready in just 20 minutes with easy steps that anyone can follow. Flavor-packed: Savory soy sauce, garlic, and tender chicken create an irresistible aroma and taste. Versatile: Use leftover rice and your favorite veggies to make it your own. Balanced and satisfying: Protein, veggies, and carbs combine for a nourishing, cozy meal. Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals that everyone loves.
Quick Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken and Rice
- Cooked chicken breast – diced for tender bites and quick cooking, perfect for Quick Chicken Fried Rice.
- Day-old cooked rice – dries out slightly to prevent clumping in your fried rice.
- Vegetable oil – a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect stir-frying.
For the Vegetables
- Frozen peas and carrots – quick, colorful veggies that add sweetness and crunch.
- Green onions – sliced thinly for fresh, zesty flavor and a pop of green.
- Garlic cloves – minced to infuse that irresistible aroma essential in fried rice.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
- Soy sauce – adds umami depth and savory balance to the dish.
- Sesame oil – just a touch for that classic, nutty aroma that completes the flavor.
- Salt and black pepper – to taste, enhancing every bite with subtle seasoning.
How to Make Quick Chicken Fried Rice
- Prep ingredients: Dice cooked chicken, thaw peas and carrots, mince garlic, and slice green onions. Have day-old rice at room temp for easy stir-frying.
- Heat oil: Warm 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, ideal for fast stir-frying.
- Cook chicken: Add diced chicken; stir-fry 2–3 minutes, tossing constantly for even browning, until edges turn golden and the meat is heated through.
- Add veggies: Toss in garlic, peas, and carrots; cook 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until veggies are bright, aromatic, and tender-crisp for perfect texture.
- Scramble eggs: Push mixture aside in pan; crack 1–2 eggs into space, scramble into soft ribbons, then fold gently into chicken and veggies.
- Stir in rice: Add rice, 2–3 tbsp soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil; stir-fry 2–3 minutes until evenly coated and steaming.
- Finish & serve: Off heat, stir in sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately for best flavor.
Optional: Add a handful of bean sprouts for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Quick Chicken Fried Rice?
After whipping up a vibrant batch of chicken fried rice, it’s time to enhance your meal with delightful sides that elevate both flavor and experience.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites are perfect for dipping in soy sauce; their fresh veggies complement the savory warmth of fried rice.
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Garlic Edamame: Steamed pods tossed in garlic and sea salt make a tasty, nutritious option. Their tender snap adds a satisfying contrast.
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Miso Soup: A warm and comforting bowl of miso soup brings a delightful umami flavor to the table while balancing out the meal perfectly.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshingly crisp, this salad provides a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of fried rice, brightening each bite.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: For an extra twist, serve this dish that contrasts sweet and tangy flavors with your savory fried rice, creating a harmonious balance.
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Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with a glass of chilled sake or a steaming cup of green tea. Both drinks enhance the flavors while offering a refreshing finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick Chicken Fried Rice preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can dice the cooked chicken, mince the garlic, and chop the green onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Moreover, you can pre-measure the soy sauce and sesame oil for an even quicker assembly time. The day-old rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it easy to whip up this dish whenever you’re ready. When it’s time to cook, simply heat the oil, stir-fry your prepared ingredients, and follow the remaining instructions. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, just like freshly made!
Quick Chicken Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to make this Quick Chicken Fried Rice your own by exploring these delightful twists!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based option that still packs a punch of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes while cooking for a fiery touch that you’ll crave. The heat elevates the taste beautifully!
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Coconut Rice: Use coconut milk in place of water when cooking your rice for a creamy, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to amp up the nutrition and crunch. The extra colors bring vibrancy to your plate!
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Pineapple Addition: Toss in some fresh pineapple chunks during the cooking process for a sweet and savory contrast. It’s a fusion of flavors that surprises and delights!
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Egg-Free: For a waffle or vegan alternative, replace the scrambled eggs with chickpea flour or silken tofu for a protein-packed experience.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end to add a fragrant brightness that elevates each bite, enhancing the overall profile.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top for an irresistible crunch that complements the soft textures of the dish. It adds amazing contrast!
How to Store and Freeze Quick Chicken Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Quick Chicken Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy for quick meals!
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can last up to 3 months; just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen rice in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to restore moisture and flavor before serving.
Room Temperature: If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly for best quality.
Expert Tips for Quick Chicken Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky; using leftover rice helps achieve that perfect, separate grain texture.
- High heat stir-frying: Keep your pan hot to quickly sear the chicken and veggies, locking in flavor and preventing sogginess in your Quick Chicken Fried Rice.
- Prep ingredients first: Having all ingredients chopped and ready ensures a smooth cooking flow, avoiding overcooked or undercooked components.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat, which helps each ingredient crisp up beautifully.
- Season gradually: Add soy sauce in stages, tasting as you go, to balance saltiness without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh green onions last: Stir them in off the heat to keep their bright flavor and crunch intact, finishing your dish with freshness.
Quick Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice works best for Quick Chicken Fried Rice?
Day-old cooked rice is ideal because it’s slightly dried out, preventing clumping and creating that perfect fluffy texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which can make your fried rice mushy.
How long can I store leftover Quick Chicken Fried Rice in the fridge?
You can safely store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to cool it quickly after cooking and keep it sealed to maintain flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze Quick Chicken Fried Rice, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the fried rice cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to revive its texture and flavor.
What if my chicken turns out dry or tough when making this recipe?
Easy fix! Use cooked, diced chicken breast that’s tender before adding it to the pan. Stir-fry quickly on high heat just to warm and brown the chicken rather than cooking it raw in the pan. Also, avoid overcooking by removing the chicken from the pan once it’s heated through to keep it juicy.
Is Quick Chicken Fried Rice safe for pets or those with allergies?
This recipe isn’t suitable for pets due to soy sauce and seasonings, which can be harmful. For people with soy or gluten allergies, substitute tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos, and verify all ingredients are allergy-friendly. You can also omit eggs or replace them with tofu for egg-free options.
Quick Chicken Fried Rice: Easy, Flavor-Packed Dinner in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice cooked chicken, thaw peas and carrots, mince garlic, and slice green onions. Have day-old rice at room temp for easy stir-frying.
- Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add diced chicken; stir-fry 2–3 minutes until edges turn golden and the meat is heated through.
- Toss in garlic, peas, and carrots; cook 1–2 minutes until veggies are bright and tender-crisp.
- Push mixture aside in pan; crack eggs into space, scramble into soft ribbons, then fold gently into chicken and veggies.
- Add rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil; stir-fry 2–3 minutes until evenly coated and steaming.
- Off heat, stir in sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
