When you think of comfort food that’s packed with flavor, restaurant-style chicken fried rice is undoubtedly one of the most satisfying dishes that comes to mind. It’s a perfect blend of savory, crispy, and tender ingredients all coming together to create an unforgettable meal. While enjoying this dish at your favorite restaurant is always a treat, making it from scratch at home is surprisingly easy, and the result is even better!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step restaurant-style chicken fried rice recipe that will rival any takeout. We’ll explore its origins, the ingredients required, the preparation method, and even variations you can try to make this dish your own. By the end of this article, you’ll not only be equipped with the knowledge to recreate this delicious dish but will also be able to serve up some restaurant-quality chicken fried rice right in your kitchen.
What is Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice?
Restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a popular dish, especially at Chinese restaurants, that features stir-fried rice combined with chicken, vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. It’s a flavor-packed dish that balances sweetness, saltiness, and the rich umami flavor that comes from ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter.
This dish is often made with leftover, cold rice because the grains remain separate and don’t clump together when stir-fried, resulting in a better texture. The beauty of chicken fried rice is its versatility. You can customize it with different proteins (like shrimp, pork, or tofu), or even adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste.
The Origin of Chicken Fried Rice
Fried rice has its origins in China, with the first documented recipes dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Fried rice became popular in the 20th century, especially with the rise of Chinese restaurants worldwide. Chicken fried rice, specifically, is a variation that became widely loved due to its combination of tender chicken and aromatic rice, offering a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
As the dish gained international popularity, especially in Western countries, many Chinese restaurants started serving chicken fried rice as a part of their staple menu. The restaurant-style fried rice you get in takeout containers today has evolved with the use of premium ingredients like sesame oil and high-quality soy sauce.
Ingredients for Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice (Serves 6)
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make restaurant-style chicken fried rice at home:
- Chicken breasts – ¾ lb, diced into bite-sized pieces
- Cooked rice – 4 cups (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)
- Large eggs – 2, beaten
- Mixed vegetables – 1 cup (peas, carrots, and corn are commonly used)
- White onion – ½ cup, diced
- Low-sodium soy sauce – 5 tbsp (adjust to taste)
- Butter – 4 tbsp, divided (for cooking and flavor)
- Sesame oil – 1½ tsp (adds a wonderful fragrance and flavor)
- Neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil) – 4 tsp (for frying)
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 tsp (for a fresh, tangy kick)
- Salt & pepper – to taste (adjust based on preference)
- Optional garnish – sesame seeds or chopped scallions (for added crunch and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating 1½ tsp sesame oil and 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breasts to the pan. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 1 minute, allowing it to brown slightly before stirring.
Next, add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp butter, 2 tsp lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let the chicken cook for another 1-3 minutes or until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Once the chicken is ready, transfer it to a bowl and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Scramble the Eggs
Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel, then heat 1 tsp of oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables are tender. This will infuse the rice with aromatic flavors.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating space to scramble the eggs. Crack 2 eggs into the empty side of the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked through. Once done, mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables and onions.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
Now it’s time to fry the rice. Add the 4 cups of day-old rice to the skillet along with 3 tbsp butter. Stir-fry the rice, breaking up any clumps, and cook for about 5 minutes, ensuring that the rice is well-coated in butter and is beginning to crisp up at the bottom.
Once the rice is fried, add 3 tbsp of soy sauce to the skillet. Stir it in and let it cook for another 1 minute to allow the soy sauce to fully coat the rice and give it that signature fried rice flavor.
Step 4: Combine Everything and Finish
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir everything thoroughly to combine, ensuring that the chicken and rice are evenly mixed. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce, salt, or pepper according to your preference. Once everything is hot and well-seasoned, remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
For the final touch, garnish your restaurant-style chicken fried rice with sesame seeds or freshly chopped scallions. This adds a nice texture and a pop of color. Serve the dish hot and enjoy!
Variations of Chicken Fried Rice
While this recipe for restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a crowd-pleaser, you can switch things up and add your personal touch. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Shrimp Fried Rice
Swap the chicken with shrimp for a seafood-inspired fried rice. Shrimp adds a delicate, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory rice.
2. Vegetarian Fried Rice
If you’re looking for a meatless option, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms. This is an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
3. Beef Fried Rice
Replace the chicken with thinly sliced beef for a heartier version. Beef fried rice has a rich, bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
4. Spicy Chicken Fried Rice
If you like a bit of heat, try adding some chili paste or Sriracha to the soy sauce. You can also include some sliced fresh chilies in the vegetable mix to bring a spicy kick to your fried rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While fresh rice can be used, day-old rice is recommended for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be stickier and can turn mushy when stir-fried. Day-old rice, on the other hand, is drier and the grains stay separate during cooking.
2. What other vegetables can I add to the fried rice?
You can use a variety of vegetables based on what you have on hand. Common choices include green beans, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. The key is to keep the vegetables chopped small so they cook evenly and mix well with the rice.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make restaurant-style chicken fried rice ahead of time. If you plan to store leftovers, refrigerate the fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
4. What can I serve with chicken fried rice?
Chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side of soup (like egg drop soup) or a green salad for added freshness. If you’re in the mood for more protein, grilled chicken or spring rolls make great additions.
Conclusion
Restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a wonderfully versatile and delicious dish that can easily be made at home. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful, satisfying meal that will remind you of your favorite takeout joint. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
By using high-quality ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter, you can elevate the flavors and create an authentic-tasting dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations, and feel free to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste. The key is to enjoy the process and savor every bite of your homemade chicken fried rice.
So, the next time you’re craving takeout, skip the delivery and try making this easy and delicious recipe at home. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
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Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice: A Perfect Takeout Inspired Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Restaurant-style chicken fried rice is a popular dish, especially at Chinese restaurants, that features stir-fried rice combined with chicken, vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. It’s a flavor-packed dish that balances sweetness, saltiness, and the rich umami flavor that comes from ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter.
Ingredients
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Chicken breasts – ¾ lb, diced into bite-sized pieces
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Cooked rice – 4 cups (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)
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Large eggs – 2, beaten
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Mixed vegetables – 1 cup (peas, carrots, and corn are commonly used)
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White onion – ½ cup, diced
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Low-sodium soy sauce – 5 tbsp (adjust to taste)
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Butter – 4 tbsp, divided (for cooking and flavor)
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Sesame oil – 1½ tsp (adds a wonderful fragrance and flavor)
-
Neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil) – 4 tsp (for frying)
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Fresh lemon juice – 2 tsp (for a fresh, tangy kick)
-
Salt & pepper – to taste (adjust based on preference)
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Optional garnish – sesame seeds or chopped scallions (for added crunch and flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1½ tsp sesame oil + 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook undisturbed for 1 minute.
- Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–3 minutes until chicken is no longer pink.
- Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies & Eggs
- Wipe out the skillet. Add 1 tsp oil and sauté onion and frozen vegetables for ~3 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Push veggies to one side. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
- Fry the Rice
- Add rice and 3 tbsp butter. Stir frequently for 5 minutes.
- Add 3 tbsp soy sauce and cook 1 more minute.
- Combine & Finish
- Return chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish and serve hot!
Notes
Want to make it even more authentic? Add a splash of sesame oil and toss in some bean sprouts or finely chopped green onions right before serving. Pair it with chili garlic sauce or a side of egg drop soup for the ultimate takeout-style meal at home!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice