Authentic Chinese Chicken Fried Rice: A Flavorful Home Made Delight
Learn to make the best Chinese chicken fried rice at home. A quick and delicious meal that's bursting with savory flavors!
Chinese Chicken Fried Rice has achieved global acclaim for its delicious blend of flavors and textures. This iconic dish, which has its roots in Chinese cuisine, offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a symphony of savory seasonings.
Fried rice, known as "chǎofàn" in Mandarin, has a fascinating history. It originated in China over a thousand years ago, and it was initially created as a way to repurpose leftover rice. As the culinary landscape evolved, so did the recipe, with various regional Chinese cuisines adding their unique twists to the dish. Today, Chinese chicken fried rice remains a staple not only in China but also in Chinese restaurants worldwide.
What makes Chinese chicken fried rice truly iconic is its adaptability and universal appeal. It's a versatile dish that allows for endless variations, making it easy to tailor to individual tastes. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, scrambled eggs, and fragrant soy sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that continue to captivate palates around the globe. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast, this dish remains a beloved classic that embodies the essence of Chinese culinary tradition.
- 2 cup cooked and cooled white rice (Preferably a day old)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Diced)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 Eggs (lightly beaten)
Knife and cutting board
Whisk (for beating eggs)
- Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Cook the rice in advance and let it cool. Day-old rice works best for fried rice.
- Dice the chicken into small pieces.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
- Ensure all other ingredients are ready for quick cooking.
- Step 2: Heat the Wok
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the hot wok and stir-fry until it's no longer pink and has a golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
- Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
In the same wok, add a little more oil if needed. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they're mostly cooked but still slightly runny. Remove the eggs and set them aside with the cooked chicken.
- Step 5: Stir-Fry Vegetables
- Add the minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Step 6: Combine Ingredients
- Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the wok with the vegetables.
- Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
- Step 7: Season and Stir
- Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Step 8: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the Chinese chicken fried rice to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade Chinese chicken fried rice!
This recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.