Chicken fried rice – a staple dish that never goes out of style! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, this beloved recipe has got you covered. With its versatility and adaptability, chicken fried rice is the ultimate comfort food that can be easily customized to suit any taste or occasion.
In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 favorite chicken fried rice recipes, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. From classic Chinese-inspired dishes to bold and spicy variations, and even some unexpected flavors like pineapple and coconut, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your wok or large skillet, and let’s get started on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more!
Classic Chicken Fried Rice with Soy Sauce
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines cooked chicken, vegetables, and rice in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. This recipe is a staple in many Asian cuisines and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked chicken; stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Chicken Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic chicken fried rice with the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine. This spicy and savory dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken, red pepper flakes, Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory flavors of garlic butter chicken with the comfort of a warm bowl of rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (cooked with garlic and butter)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice with the onion and garlic mixture for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the cooked chicken, soy sauce, and salt to taste. Stir-fry until well combined.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai basil with the comfort of chicken fried rice, creating a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add garlic, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, until combined and heated through.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in chopped Thai basil leaves.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of chicken, pineapple, and rice, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup diced pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, pineapple, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice recipe! This savory dish combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce, the crunch of cooked chicken, and the comfort of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add ginger and garlic; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in teriyaki sauce and cooked chicken; combine with cooked rice.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Chicken Fried Rice
This spicy Korean-inspired fried rice dish combines the savory flavors of chicken, kimchi, and soy sauce with the comfort of a warm bowl of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Add the chopped kimchi and cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry until the rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Chicken Fried Rice
Coconut Chicken Fried Rice: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Chinese Dish
This recipe combines the flavors of coconut and chicken with the comfort of fried rice, making for a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, cooked chicken, and cooked rice. Stir-fry for 5 minutes.
4. Add the shredded coconut and soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the coconut is toasted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Lemongrass Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines the brightness of lemongrass with savory chicken and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add lemongrass, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until rice is well coated with the flavors.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until combined with the rice mixture.
7. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Curry Chicken Fried Rice
Get ready to spice up your meal with this flavorful Curry Chicken Fried Rice recipe! This dish combines the comfort of fried rice with the warmth of curry and the protein-rich goodness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable-Loaded Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the flavors of sweet and sour chicken with a savory rice dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sweet and sour sauce
– 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry until combined.
3. Push the mixture to one side of the pan; add remaining 1 teaspoon of oil.
4. Pour in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and sweet and sour sauce; stir-fry until combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger Scallion Chicken Fried Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Asian cuisine with this easy-to-make dish, combining crispy chicken, savory ginger, and scallions with fluffy fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add scallions and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Return chicken to the pan; stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Five-Spice Chicken Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a savory and aromatic dish with this simple recipe. Five-spice chicken fried rice combines the warm, comforting flavors of China with the convenience of a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken and five-spice powder; stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Peanut Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines juicy chicken, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic vegetables with a hint of peanut butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Stir in peanut butter and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the peanut mixture.
7. Combine cooked rice with the chicken-vegetable mixture, stirring well to coat.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Fried Rice
A delicious twist on traditional fried rice, this BBQ chicken fried rice recipe combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken and barbecue sauce with the comfort of a warm, fluffy rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grill the chicken until cooked through, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed veggies and cooked chicken to the skillet; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir in the BBQ sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is well coated and heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Fried Rice
A twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Cheesy Chicken Fried Rice recipe adds a creamy and indulgent touch to a staple comfort food. With the combination of juicy chicken, savory rice, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add frozen vegetables and cooked chicken back into the skillet.
5. Stir in soy sauce, then add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and stir until melted.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Mexican-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Mexican-Style Chicken Fried Rice: A flavorful twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines savory chicken, spicy peppers, and aromatic spices with fluffy rice for a bold and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (orange, yellow, green), sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and peppers; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until rice is heated through.
7. Return chicken to the skillet; stir-fry until combined.
8. Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice
A nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the crunch of cauliflower with the protein-packed goodness of chicken and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, frozen vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Leftover Roast Chicken Fried Rice
Transforming leftover roast chicken into a delicious fried rice dish is a great way to reduce food waste and create a quick, satisfying meal. This recipe combines the flavors of roasted chicken with savory vegetables, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced leftover roast chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed frozen vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the mixture for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouth-watering chicken fried rice recipes! From classic soy sauce flavors to spicy Szechuan twists, and even vegetarian options, there’s something for every occasion. Try Garlic Butter Chicken Fried Rice for a rich and savory flavor, or Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice for a sweet and tangy taste. With international influences like Thai Basil, Korean Kimchi, and Mexican flair, you’ll never get bored with these versatile recipes.
