Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Skip the takeout and make this quick, budget-friendly Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice at home! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful dish that satisfies your cravings. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a late-night snack. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, you’ll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Fried Rice
• For Garnish
• How to Make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Heat the Skillet
• Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
• Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
• Step 4: Combine the Mixture
• Step 5: Add the Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce
• Step 7: Optional Garnish
• How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Family Style
• Portioning
• With Extra Proteins
• Accompanied by Sauces
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• As Part of a Buffet
• How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?
• How can I customize my Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?
• What type of rice is best for fried rice?
• How do I store leftovers of Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?
• Can I double the recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This chicken fried rice takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover rice and cooked chicken helps keep the cost down while still delivering on flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish truly your own.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sesame oil and soy sauce gives this dish an authentic taste that rivals takeout.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors again the next day; it’s even better as leftovers!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious chicken fried rice, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium skillet or wok: Essential for even cooking and giving you enough space to stir-fry without spilling.
• Spatula: Helps you mix ingredients thoroughly while scrambling eggs and combining everything together.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring precision and safety.

Ingredients

For the Chicken 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

For Garnish

• 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 your medium skillet or wok over medium heat until it’s hot.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

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

Step 4: Combine the Mixture

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

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Rice

Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together with both egg and vegetable mixtures until combined.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over the mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. Taste before serving; feel free to add more soy sauce if desired.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If you’re using green onions, stir them in just before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It’s not only delicious but also offers an array of options to enhance your meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the fried rice directly from the skillet for a casual family meal where everyone can help themselves.

Portioning

• Divide the rice into individual bowls for a more formal setting. This also allows guests to add their own toppings or sauces.

With Extra Proteins

• Top with grilled shrimp or beef for added protein. This makes the dish heartier and even more satisfying.

Accompanied by Sauces

• Provide soy sauce, sriracha, or sweet chili sauce on the side. This allows everyone to customize their flavor experience according to their taste.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice as part of a larger buffet spread, alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like spring rolls or dumplings.

How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is easy with these simple tips.

• Use day-old rice: Leftover, cooled rice has a firmer texture, making it ideal for fried rice.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Add soy sauce gradually until you reach your desired flavor.
• Keep it moving: Stir continuously while cooking to avoid burning and achieve an even mix of ingredients.
• Add protein last: Incorporate chicken or other proteins towards the end to keep them juicy and tender.
• Experiment with vegetables: Mix in different veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and variety.

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Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

To complement your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice, consider pairing it with some delicious side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Spring Rolls: These crispy delights are filled with fresh vegetables and served with dipping sauce, making them a perfect appetizer.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of this classic soup balances out the meal with its silky texture and savory flavor.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad adds crunch and acidity to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a nice contrast in color and flavor.
5. Dumplings: Whether fried or steamed, dumplings filled with meat or vegetables are always a crowd-pleaser alongside fried rice.
6. Sesame Noodles: These cold noodles dressed in sesame sauce bring a delightful twist that pairs well with your chicken fried rice.
7. Wonton Soup: A flavorful broth filled with wontons adds warmth and comfort to your meal.
8. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds both nutrition and a vibrant green aspect to balance out the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Always use leftover rice that has been cooled for the best texture.
• Skipping the sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a rich flavor that enhances the dish. Don’t skip this key ingredient; it’s essential for authenticity.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for 3-5 minutes until they are just tender.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste your dish as you cook. Adding more soy sauce or seasoning can elevate the flavors significantly, so don’t hesitate to adjust.
• Forgetting to scramble the eggs separately: Scrambling eggs directly with other ingredients may lead to uneven cooking. Always scramble them separately before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chicken fried rice to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir-fry until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or another protein and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce.

How can I customize my Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or even different proteins such as shrimp or beef based on your preference.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old rice is ideal because it dries out and becomes less sticky. Jasmine or long-grain rice works well too!

How do I store leftovers of Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or wok to accommodate all ingredients without overcrowding them.

Final Thoughts

This Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy delicious homemade fried rice any time!

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