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Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice: A Perfect Takeout Inspired Dish


  • Author: David Andersson
  • 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

  • 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)


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