Description
Craving a quick, hearty meal that brings the bold flavors of takeout-style fried rice to your kitchen? The Easy Chicken Fried Rice recipe is your answer! This one-skillet dish combines shredded rotisserie chicken, colorful mixed vegetables, fluffy eggs, and ready-to-serve rice, all tossed in a savory sesame oil blend
Ingredients
To make Easy Chicken Fried Rice for 6 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this hearty dish:
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 package, 12 oz): Add color, nutrition, and crunch.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp, divided): Used for cooking eggs and rice.
- Large Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Provide fluffy, protein-rich texture.
- Sesame Oil (4 tbsp, divided): Adds nutty, savory depth.
- Ready-to-Serve Garden Vegetable Rice (3 packages, 8.8 oz each): Convenient, flavorful base.
- Rotisserie Chicken (1, skin removed, shredded): Tender, savory protein.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances overall flavor.
- Pepper (¼ tsp): Offers a mild kick.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Swap with cooked chicken breast, shrimp, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Use fresh veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers (sauté longer).
- Ready-to-Serve Rice: Replace with 4½ cups cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa (cooled for best texture).
- Sesame Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or peanut oil, though sesame adds unique flavor.
- Add-Ons: Include diced green onions, soy sauce, ginger, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ready-to-serve rice and ensure chicken is gluten-free (check labels).
Why These Ingredients Matter: The chicken and eggs provide protein, while the veggies and rice add fiber and texture. The sesame oil delivers authentic Asian-inspired flavor, making this a balanced, flavorful meal perfect for quick, hearty dinners.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Cook 1 package (12 oz) frozen mixed vegetables according to package directions (typically microwave or boil for 5–7 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
Tip: Pat veggies dry to avoid excess moisture in the fried rice.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Pour in 2 lightly beaten eggs and cook, stirring gently, for 1–2 minutes until thickened and no liquid egg remains.
- Remove eggs to a plate and set aside.
Tip: Stir gently for soft, fluffy eggs, and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
- In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp sesame oil and the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 3 packages (8.8 oz each) ready-to-serve garden vegetable rice and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the rice begins to brown and crisp slightly.
Tip: Spread rice evenly in the skillet and let it sit for a minute before stirring to get crispy bits.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed), ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, cooked vegetables, and reserved eggs.
- Break the eggs into small pieces while stirring and cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Drizzle with the remaining 2 tbsp sesame oil and stir to combine.
Tip: Stir gently to keep the eggs in bite-sized pieces and ensure even seasoning.
Step 5: Serve
- Spoon the fried rice into bowls or onto plates.
- Serve hot, with optional toppings like soy sauce, chopped green onions, or hot pepper sauce.
Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy rice and warm, savory flavors at their best.