Homemade Chicken Fried Rice

Name: Homemade Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 1/2 cup peas and carrots (fresh or frozen); 2 eggs, beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I absolutely love making Homemade Chicken Fried Rice because it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients while creating something delicious and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and savory rice comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. Every time I prepare this dish, the enticing aroma fills the kitchen, and I’m reminded of the convenience and comfort that homemade meals bring. Plus, it’s so customizable—add whatever vegetables you have on hand or tweak the seasonings to suit your taste!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:53:36.220Z

When I first tried making Chicken Fried Rice at home, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret is to use day-old rice; it’s drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Stir-frying at high heat adds that delicious smoky flavor reminiscent of takeout, while allowing the chicken and veggies to stay crisp.

To truly elevate the dish, I always finish with a splash of sesame oil. It not only adds a lovely aroma but also a depth of flavor that ties everything together. Now, this dish is a staple in my kitchen, and I love to serve it with a side of soy sauce for that extra kick!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
Perfect for using up leftover chicken and vegetables
Flavorful and customizable to suit your taste
A satisfying one-pan meal that the whole family enjoys

      

Choosing the Right Rice

When making chicken fried rice, the type of rice you choose plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture. Jasmine rice is my preferred choice due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy grains, but other long-grain varieties also work well. To prevent mushiness, it's best to use rice that has been cooked and cooled, preferably a day old. This allows the grains to firm up, making it easier to stir-fry without becoming sticky.

If you find yourself without jasmine rice, consider using basmati or even short-grain rice, but keep in mind that it may alter the dish's final texture. Each variety has unique characteristics; for instance, short-grain rice tends to become quite sticky, which can be delicious in a different context but is not ideal for fried rice.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

One of the best features of homemade chicken fried rice is its versatility. You can easily substitute or add different vegetables depending on what's in your fridge. Bell peppers, broccoli, and even corn can elevate the dish’s color and nutritional profile. If you want to make this a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken for enhanced flavor.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. If you’re looking to enhance the umami flavor, try stirring in a tablespoon of oyster sauce or a dash of fish sauce. These little adjustments can give your fried rice a whole new flavor dimension, tailored to your preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing chicken fried rice correctly is key to maintaining its quality. Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portioned bags, which can last for up to a month. Just be sure to label the bags with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

When reheating, you can use the microwave or a stovetop pan. If using a microwave, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out and cover it loosely. When reheating on the stove, a small amount of oil will help refresh the dish while improving the texture, allowing for that delicious crunch to return. Heat over medium until heated through, stirring often to avoid any sticking.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1/2 cup peas and carrots (fresh or frozen)
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and make sure the rice is cold and clump-free. This prevents sticking during frying.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until heated through.

Add Vegetables and Eggs

Stir in the peas and carrots, then push everything to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked.

Combine and Season

Add the cold rice, soy sauce, and sliced green onions to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Pro Tips

For best results, use leftover rice that’s been refrigerated overnight. This helps the grains stay separate during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried rice makes a delightful main dish, but it can also be paired beautifully with a variety of sides. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it with steamed dumplings or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you're entertaining, a small serving of sweet and sour sauce can add a fun element to the dining experience.

For a richer meal, think about topping the fried rice with a fried egg. A runny yolk adds creaminess and depth to each bite. Just heat a little oil in a separate pan and fry the egg sunny-side up as the rice finishes cooking. It’s a simple touch that elevates the presentation and flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

If you need to adjust the quantities for a larger gathering, scaling this chicken fried rice recipe is straightforward. Each ingredient can easily be doubled or tripled while maintaining the same cooking technique. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or wok to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying, which affects texture.

When increasing the volume, keep an eye on the cooking times of the vegetables and chicken. Larger amounts may require a few extra minutes in the pan, so taste is your best guide. Additionally, if you're making a significant batch, consider using multiple pans or cooking in two stages to keep everything crisp and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it may take longer to cook and should be prepared beforehand.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or corn based on your preference.

→ Is Chicken Fried Rice gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add tofu or simply increase the amount of vegetables.