Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a easy American Chinese recipe that serves 4. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Smokin' & Grillin with AB on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 22 min | Total: 32 min

Cost: $10.12 total, $2.53 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Long Grain Rice (day‑old, cooked and refrigerated)
  • 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (trimmed of excess fat, cut into bite‑size pieces)
  • 2 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables (peas, corn, carrots; thawed)
  • 3 units Eggs (large)
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened, divided)
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for cooking chicken and eggs)
  • 0.25 cup Regular Soy Sauce (adds salty umami)
  • 0.25 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce (optional alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (adds nutty flavor at the end)
  • 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (adds depth and slight sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic (freshly minced)
  • 5 units Green Onions (chopped, both white and green parts)
  • to taste pinch Salt
  • to taste pinch Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs, cut into bite‑size pieces. Chop the green onions, mince the garlic, and measure all sauces and butter. Set a bowl aside for the cooked chicken.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Cook Chicken

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in the wok over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir‑fry until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Add a splash of regular soy sauce near the end for flavor.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium-high

  3. Set Chicken Aside

    Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared bowl and wipe the wok clean with a paper towel.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Scramble Eggs

    Add 1 tbsp butter and a drizzle of olive oil to the wok, lower heat to medium. Crack the three eggs directly into the wok, let them sit untouched for a few seconds until the edges set, then gently stir with a wooden spoon to create soft curds. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium

  5. Stir‑Fry Vegetables

    Increase heat to medium‑high, add the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables and minced garlic. Stir‑fry until the veggies are heated through and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 4 minutes.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: medium-high

  6. Add Rice and Flavorings

    Add the day‑old rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps. Drizzle with 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, and the remaining regular soy sauce (if needed). Stir‑fry, allowing the rice to coat with the sauces and become slightly crispy, about 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium-high

  7. Combine All Components

    Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the wok. Add the chopped green onions. Toss everything together for another 2–3 minutes so flavors meld. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium-high

  8. Serve

    Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while hot.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
450
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
55g
Fat
12g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Contains soy, Contains dairy, Gluten (if regular soy sauce is used)

Allergens: Eggs, Soy, Dairy

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Recipe by Smokin' & Grillin with AB

A quick, easy, and flavorful chicken fried rice made with day‑old rice, bite‑size chicken thigh pieces, frozen mixed veggies, and a simple blend of soy, oyster, and sesame sauces. Perfect for using up leftovers and ready in about 30 minutes.

EasyAmerican ChineseServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
23m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
38m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.12
Total cost
$2.53
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Trim and cut chicken to uniform bite‑size pieces
  • Cook chicken until browned and reach safe internal temperature
  • Use cold, day‑old rice to prevent clumping
  • Let eggs set before scrambling for fluffy texture
  • Add sauces at the end and stir‑fry quickly to coat rice

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause burns – handle the wok with oven mitts
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
  • Garlic can burn quickly; keep an eye on it

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Fried Rice in American Chinese cuisine?

A

Chicken fried rice originated from traditional Chinese stir‑fry dishes and was adapted by Chinese immigrants in the United States to suit local ingredients and faster cooking methods, becoming a staple comfort food in American Chinese restaurants and home kitchens.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Chicken Fried Rice in Chinese cuisine?

A

In China, fried rice varies by region: Cantonese versions often use soy sauce and shrimp, while Sichuan styles add spicy chilies and peppercorns. The American version typically uses soy, oyster, and sesame sauces for a milder, savory flavor.

cultural
Q

How is Chicken Fried Rice traditionally served in Chinese-American households?

A

It is usually served hot as a main dish alongside other stir‑fry vegetables or a simple soup, often eaten with chopsticks or a fork and accompanied by soy sauce or hot sauce on the side.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Chicken Fried Rice associated with in Chinese-American culture?

A

Fried rice is a go‑to dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and casual celebrations because it efficiently uses leftovers and can be prepared quickly for large groups.

cultural
Q

What makes Chicken Fried Rice special in American Chinese cuisine?

A

Its simplicity, ability to repurpose leftovers, and the balance of savory soy‑based sauces with the nutty aroma of sesame oil make it a beloved, versatile comfort food.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Fried Rice?

A

Common errors include using freshly cooked rice (which becomes mushy), overcrowding the wok (causing steaming instead of frying), overcooking the garlic (burnt bitterness), and adding too much sauce, which makes the dish soggy.

technical
Q

Why does this Chicken Fried Rice recipe use both regular soy sauce and low‑sodium soy sauce?

A

The combination lets you control sodium levels while still achieving the depth of flavor that regular soy sauce provides; you can use all low‑sodium if you prefer a lighter salt profile.

technical
Q

Can I make Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the fried rice a day ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a hot wok or skillet, adding a splash of oil to restore texture.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Chicken Fried Rice?

A

The rice grains should be separate and slightly glossy from the sauces, with a light golden‑brown edge from the high‑heat stir‑fry. The vegetables should be bright, and the chicken pieces should be browned but still juicy.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB specializes in straightforward, grill‑focused and stovetop recipes that emphasize simplicity, flavor, and using everyday pantry ingredients for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Smokin' & Grillin with AB's approach to American Chinese cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Smokin' & Grillin with AB focuses on quick, no‑fluff tutorials that highlight high‑heat techniques and practical tips for using leftovers, whereas many other channels may include extensive prep or gourmet twists.

channel

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