Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Skip the takeout and make this quick, budget-friendly Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice at home! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option with plenty of leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.

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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 Dish
• 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 Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce
• Step 7: Optional Garnish
• How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Family Style
• With Extra Soy Sauce
• Garnished with Green Onions
• Accompanied by Egg Rolls
• As a Lunchbox Meal
• Served with Sweet and Sour Sauce
• How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this chicken fried rice better than takeout?
• Can I use other proteins in this recipe?
• How do I store leftovers of Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• How spicy is this chicken fried rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes required, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover ingredients makes it economical without compromising on taste.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for any taste.
• Family Favorite: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its delicious flavors.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools will help you whip up this delicious fried rice quickly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium skillet or wok: Ideal for evenly cooking all ingredients while allowing for easy stirring.
• Spatula: Perfect for scrambling eggs and mixing everything together without damaging the rice.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of oil and soy sauce for balanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dish

• 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. This ensures that the oil gets hot enough to sauté the vegetables properly.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sesame oil, diced onion, and peas/carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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 the scrambled eggs together with the cooked vegetables in the skillet so they mix well together.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice

Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly with the egg and vegetable mixture for an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour the soy sauce over your mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined. Taste your dish and feel free to add more soy sauce if desired.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If you’re using them, stir in the green onions. Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your homemade Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is easy and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the fried rice in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a relaxed atmosphere and encourages sharing.

With Extra Soy Sauce

• Place a small dish of soy sauce on the table for those who enjoy an extra boost of flavor. It’s perfect for personalizing each serving.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions on top before serving. This adds color and a fresh taste that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Egg Rolls

• Pair with crispy egg rolls for a satisfying crunch. They make an excellent appetizer that pairs well with chicken fried rice.

As a Lunchbox Meal

• Pack leftovers in lunchboxes for work or school. This makes for a quick, tasty meal that’s easy to reheat.

Served with Sweet and Sour Sauce

• Offer sweet and sour sauce on the side for dipping. The tangy flavor contrasts nicely with the savory rice.

How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

To ensure your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use leftover rice: Day-old rice is drier and works best, preventing your fried rice from becoming mushy.
• Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients, which helps achieve that signature stir-fried texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows even cooking and browning of the ingredients.
• Customize with vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as bell peppers or broccoli.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning gradually to ensure you achieve the perfect flavor balance without overwhelming the dish.
• Let it rest briefly: Allowing cooked fried rice to sit for a minute off heat can help it firm up slightly before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, spring rolls add an exciting texture contrast.
2. Hot and Sour Soup: This flavorful soup enhances the Asian theme while providing warmth and depth.
3. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunch and balances out the richness of fried rice.
4. Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables make for a hearty addition.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy option that pairs well with chicken flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds brightness to your meal without overpowering it.
7. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles serve as an excellent side that complements the flavors in chicken fried rice.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and enhances the overall dining experience with its umami flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Always use leftover or cooled rice for the best results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for tender yet crisp veggies by cooking them just until they’re soft.
• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to add enough soy sauce or seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Not using a hot skillet: A not sufficiently heated skillet can prevent proper frying. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients to achieve that perfect fried texture.
• Crowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring even heat distribution throughout.

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 the container.

Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and stir occasionally until heated.

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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, making it healthier and more delicious than typical takeout options.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu based on your preference.

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 add more vegetables?

Yes! You can easily customize this dish with additional vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

How spicy is this chicken fried rice?

This recipe is mild but you can easily add chili paste or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish!

Final Thoughts

This Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite protein and vegetables, making it suitable for any taste preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious homemade fried rice that beats takeout every time!