How to Make the Best Chicken Fried Rice

Last Updated on September 27, 2025 by Soul Food Cooking

Chicken Fried rice is a quick and easy weeknight meal that can be make in minutes with just a little preparation. I love Chinese takeout but there is no substitute for being able to make my favorite takeout meals at home. Chicken Fried rice is made with simple ingredients that can be found in your pantry and fridge. The key to great tasting chicken fried rice is to use the right ingredients and to cook it over high heat. I love to eat my fried rice as a stand alone meal or with my fried chicken, egg rolls or a healthy salad. However you chose to serve it, it is sure to be satisfying.

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How to Make Chicken Fried Rice

1. What Ingredients go into Chicken Fried Rice?

This recipe is made with simple ingredients that you should mostly already have. The few things you may need to purchase are the secret to what makes chicken fried rice so good and what gives chicken fried rice its flavor. The secret to good fried rice is using rice that is at least one day old; the sesame oil and the oyster sauce.

• Chicken Breast – Lean, tender protein that adds heartiness to the dish.
• Day-Old Rice – Slightly dry rice perfect for stir-frying without clumping.
• Eggs – Soft scrambled for richness and a pop of color.
• Onion – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Scallion – Bright, fresh onion flavor that finishes the dish.
• Beansprouts – Add crunch and a light, refreshing bite.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots – Convenient mix of color, sweetness, and texture.
• Canola Oil – Neutral oil ideal for high-heat stir-frying.
• Garlic – Savory, aromatic base for building flavor.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and a zesty kick.
• Oyster Sauce – Savory and slightly sweet with deep umami richness.
• Soy Sauce – Classic salty seasoning that ties everything together.
• Sesame Oil – Nutty and fragrant, used for a flavorful finish.
• Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of all the ingredients.

Substitutions and Additions

• Shrimp, Pork, Tofu or Beef swaps easily for the Chicken
• If Canola Oil isn’t handy, peanut oil or vegetable oil will work perfectly.
• Light soy sauce can take the place of regular soy sauce.
• Add sliced water chestnuts, mushrooms, spring onion and broccoli makes for a heartier dish.

What You Will Need

• Wok/Large Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Cooking Utensils

Watch Me Make Delicious Chicken Fried Rice

Instructions for Making Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a small bowl then sprinkle with salt and pepper and mix until each piece is well coated.

Step 2: Fry the Egg

2. Add 1 Tbsp of oil to the wok then using medium high heat fry the eggs. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

4. Add the remaining oil to the wok then saute the onion, garlic, and ginger allowing it to cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Next, add the peas and carrots and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine all Ingredients

5. Add the white rice, chicken, and egg to the wok and mix well. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce and mix well. Lastly, add the bean sprouts and scallions and mix well then serve immediately.

Here are some additional tips for making the best chicken fried rice:

Tips and Variations

• Use a variety of vegetables. Don’t be afraid to mix up the veggies. This will add a different taste and texture to your dish. In addition to the peas, carrots, onion and scallions, you may want to add spring onions, bell pepper, green beans or tomatoes.
• Make sure to never overcrowd your pan. Adding too much to the pan will cause the rice will steam instead of fry.
• Make sure not to overcook the rice. The rice should be slightly heated through but still have a bit of bite to it.
• Don’t be afraid to change up the seasonings. You can also add other seasonings to your chicken fried rice, to make the dish your own such as garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes.

What to Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken fried rice, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled, then place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to warm it in a skillet or wok over medium heat with a splash of oil or a tablespoon of water to help restore moisture—stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating more than once for the best taste and for food safety.