Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Skip the takeout and make this quick, budget-friendly Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice at home! With simple ingredients and just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for dinner with plenty of leftovers for the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this flavorful meal will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delicious chicken fried rice in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover rice and shredded chicken helps you save money while creating a satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Healthier Option: This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier choice compared to takeout.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything prepared will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for even cooking and allows you to stir-fry effectively.
• Spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly without breaking them apart.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for the Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice:

For the Fried Rice

• 1 lb chicken, cooked and shredded
• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably leftover or cooled)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (add more if desired)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional)

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How to Make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Preheat a medium skillet or wok over medium heat until hot.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sesame oil to the skillet. Then toss in the diced onion along with the peas and carrots. Cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs on the empty side. Scramble them with a spatula until fully cooked.

Step 4: Combine the Mixture

Stir together the scrambled eggs with the cooked vegetables until well mixed.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice

Add in your cooked rice and shredded chicken. Mix everything thoroughly with the egg and vegetable mixture.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over everything in the skillet. Stir until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more soy sauce.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If desired, stir in chopped green onions before serving immediately.

Enjoy your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice as a delightful meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or at a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of chicken fried rice.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw with sesame dressing adds a nice contrast and freshness.

Topped with Extra Chicken

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Add sliced grilled chicken on top for an extra protein boost and flavor enhancement.
• Crispy Chicken Strips: Serve with crispy chicken strips on the side for added crunch and satisfaction.

Incorporating Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top for a spicy kick that pairs well with the savory fried rice.
• Soy Sauce Variations: Offer different types of soy sauce, such as low-sodium or flavored, for guests to customize their dish.

Accompanied by Dumplings

• Steamed Dumplings: Serve steamed dumplings filled with pork or vegetables as a delightful side that complements the main dish.
• Pan-Fried Gyoza: Crispy gyoza adds texture and is perfect for dipping in soy sauce.

How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve delicious chicken fried rice every time, follow these simple tips that will enhance your cooking experience.

• Use cold rice: Cold, leftover rice prevents clumping and helps achieve the perfect texture for frying.
• High heat is key: Cooking on high heat ensures quick cooking while keeping ingredients crisp and flavorful.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary; too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to bring more color and nutrients.
• Season thoughtfully: Adjust soy sauce and other seasonings according to your taste preferences; start small and build up flavor gradually.

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Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with chicken fried rice can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish wonderfully.

1. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a delightful contrast to the soft fried rice.
2. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls packed with shrimp or veggies offer a light and refreshing accompaniment.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: This flavorful soup adds warmth and complexity, making it an ideal starter before the main course.
4. Wonton Soup: Wonton soup brings comforting broth flavors that pair beautifully with chicken fried rice.
5. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled veggies gives a tangy kick that balances out the richness of the fried rice.
6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles serve as a tasty contrast to warm chicken fried rice while adding another layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice at home can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is often too moist and sticky for fried rice. Instead, use leftover or cooled rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping or skimping on soy sauce can lead to bland fried rice. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Skipping the eggs: Eggs add flavor and texture to fried rice. Don’t skip this step; scramble them before mixing with other ingredients.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding the skillet can prevent proper frying. Make sure your ingredients have enough space to cook evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fried rice on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil and stir-fry the rice until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this chicken fried rice better than takeout?

This recipe uses fresh ingredients and allows you to customize flavors and add-ins, resulting in a tastier dish than typical takeout options.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu depending on your preference.

How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming soggy?

Using leftover or cooled rice is key. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture which can make your dish soggy.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or any other vegetables you enjoy for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and budget-friendly but also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give it a try for dinner tonight and enjoy delicious leftovers tomorrow!