A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Staple
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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use
Tools:
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Bowl (if using leftover rice)
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Ingredients and Their Roles:
- Cooked rice (3 cups, preferably day-old): Acts as the base of the dish, providing texture and absorbing the flavors.
- Chicken breast (1 pound), diced: Adds lean protein, making the dish more satisfying and nutritious.
- Eggs (2, beaten): Contribute additional protein and richness, and help bind the ingredients.
- Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup): Introduce color, texture, and essential vitamins.
- Green onions (3-4, chopped): Offer a mild, crunchy bite and fresh flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall savoriness of the dish.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds umami, depth, and the classic salty flavor to the fried rice.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Gives a distinct, nutty flavor.
- Vegetable oil (for cooking): Used for frying and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
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Step-By-Step Instructions:
- Prep Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking. This includes dicing the chicken, chopping the vegetables, and beating the eggs.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: In the same skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add a bit more oil to the skillet if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until they are just tender.
- Combine & Fry: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice, and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Final Touches: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add the chopped green onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure all the ingredients are heated through.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce, salt, and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
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Time and Servings:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:
Chicken fried rice is a balanced meal with protein from the chicken and eggs, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the peas and carrots. Using brown rice instead of white rice can increase fiber content. For a healthier version, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe:
- Using Fresh Rice: Day-old rice that’s been refrigerated works best as it’s less sticky and fries better.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cook ingredients in batches if necessary to ensure everything is properly fried and not steamed.
- High Heat: Keep the heat medium-high to prevent burning, especially when adding the soy sauce and sesame oil.
Conclusion:
This easy chicken fried rice is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with whatever vegetables or protein you have on hand. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this fried rice recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of homemade fried rice!