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. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and customizable, making it suitable for family meals or casual gatherings.

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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
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with a Protein
• Create a Bowl
• Use Fun Serving Dishes
• 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
• How can I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?
• Can I use different vegetables in chicken fried rice?
• What type of rice is best for chicken fried rice?
• How do I store leftovers of Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice?
• Can I add more protein to this chicken fried rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using leftover chicken and rice keeps costs low without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Healthier Alternative: Skip the takeout and enjoy a homemade version that’s packed with nutrients.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sesame oil and soy sauce creates a savory profile that rivals any restaurant dish.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to prepare Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or wok: The wide surface area allows for even cooking and easy stirring of ingredients.
• Spatula: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging them.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.

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 a medium skillet or wok over medium heat. Allow it to get hot enough so that when you add oil, it sizzles.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sesame oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onion along with the thawed peas and carrots. Sauté until tender, approximately 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Once the vegetables are cooked, push them 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

Mix together the scrambled eggs with the cooked vegetables in your skillet until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Rice

Now add your cooked rice along with shredded chicken into the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly so that each ingredient is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Season with Soy Sauce

Pour soy sauce over your mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Taste it to check if more soy sauce is needed; feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If you like, stir in chopped green onions before serving for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately while hot!

How to Serve Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Serving your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice can elevate the meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
• Cilantro: Add cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve it alongside grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.
• Shrimp: For seafood lovers, shrimp can be a delightful addition.

Create a Bowl

• Rice Bowl Style: Serve the fried rice in a bowl topped with sliced avocado and sesame seeds for a nutritious twist.
• Layered Bowl: Add layers of fresh veggies like cucumber or radishes for added texture.

Use Fun Serving Dishes

• Bento Boxes: Present the fried rice in bento boxes for a fun, portable meal option.
• Wok Presentation: Serve directly from the wok for a casual dining experience.

How to Perfect Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice comes down to timing and technique. Follow these tips to make your dish even better.

• Use Cooled Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best as it helps prevent mushiness.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat for that authentic fried texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding can steam the ingredients instead of frying them.
• Season Gradually: Start with less soy sauce, then adjust to taste; this prevents overpowering flavors.
• Add Texture Variations: Consider adding nuts or crispy shallots for an extra crunch.

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Best Side Dishes for Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat make a perfect crunchy side.
2. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls stuffed with veggies provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: A bowl of hot and sour soup adds warmth and complements the fried rice well.
4. Asian Salad: A light salad with sesame dressing offers freshness that balances the richness of the rice.
5. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables are always a hit at the dinner table.
6. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers glazed with teriyaki sauce add an excellent protein pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is often too moist. Instead, opt for leftover or cooled rice for the best texture.
• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to have all your ingredients ready can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure everything is chopped and measured before you start.
• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long, they can lose their crunch. Aim for tenderness while still keeping some bite.
• Skipping the sesame oil: Using regular oil instead of sesame oil can result in a loss of flavor. Always use sesame oil for that authentic taste.
• Ignoring seasonings: Not tasting as you go can leave your dish bland. Adjust soy sauce and other seasonings to suit your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.

Freezing Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken.

Can I use different vegetables in chicken fried rice?

Yes! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, broccoli, or any frozen vegetables you prefer.

What type of rice is best for chicken fried rice?

Day-old rice or cooled cooked rice works best as it has less moisture and prevents stickiness.

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I add more protein to this chicken fried rice?

Absolutely! You can mix in shrimp, scrambled tofu, or even pork for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Better Than Takeout Chicken Fried Rice recipe is not only quick and budget-friendly but also versatile. You can customize it with various proteins and vegetables to suit your preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!

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