Chicken Fried Rice with Garlic & Ginger

Why You Should Make Chicken Fried Rice

✅ Easy to customize with what you have in the fridge
✅ One-basket meal that's packed with protein, veggies, and carbs
✅ Tastes just like your favorite takeout but healthier
✅ Great for meal prep or using up leftover rice and chicken
✅ Kid-approved and budget-friendly

Ingredients and Easy Swaps

Rice: Day-old cooked rice works best for texture. Swap with jasmine, basmati, or brown rice.

Chicken: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for ease. Sub with shrimp, tofu, or omit for vegetarian version.

Eggs: Scrambled for protein and richness. You can also skip for egg-free diets.

Peas & Carrots: Classic frozen veggie combo. Swap with corn, bell pepper, or edamame.

Soy Sauce: Brings umami depth. Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free options.

Sesame Oil: Adds nutty flavor. Swap with olive oil, but sesame gives authentic taste.

Green Onions: Add fresh crunch and color. Sub with chives or skip.

Garlic & Ginger Powder: Adds savory and spicy warmth. Use fresh if preferred.

Salt & Pepper: Adjust to taste.

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

This dish comes together easily and quickly. Using day-old rice is the key to getting that signature takeout-style texture—slightly chewy with crisp edges. Start by tossing everything together, scramble your eggs, mix them in, and finish with a flash of high heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your cooking device to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chicken, peas and carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
3. Push rice mixture to one side of the basket or tray.
4. Spray the other side with a little oil and pour in beaten eggs.
5. Cook for 3–4 minutes until eggs are set, then mix everything together.
6. Spread the rice evenly and cook for 10 more minutes, stirring halfway for even crisping.
7. Serve hot, topped with green onions.

Best Chicken Fried Rice Toppings

• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Drizzle of sriracha or chili oil
• Chopped cilantro
• Fried shallots or onions
• Crushed peanuts or cashews

Recipe Variations and Ideas

• Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies
• Make it spicy with red chili flakes or hot sauce
• Use pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory twist
• Sub tofu for a vegetarian version
• Add a splash of oyster sauce for depth

5 Ways to Serve Chicken Fried Rice

• On its own as a full meal
• With a side of egg rolls or spring rolls
• As a filling for lettuce wraps
• Alongside grilled teriyaki chicken or shrimp
• With a cucumber salad or pickled veggies for contrast

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g