If you are looking for a delightful, quick, and satisfying meal that combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavors, this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is the perfect choice. Bursting with tender ground chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, each bite offers a fantastic mix of textures and tastes that will make you smile. It’s an absolute favorite for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting dish that feels homemade yet restaurant-worthy. Plus, the ease and speed of this recipe make it a go-to when you want something delicious without fussing over complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each adding a unique touch to the dish’s overall harmony of flavors and textures. From the savory ground chicken to the freshness of vegetables and the rich aroma of sesame oil, every component plays a starring role.
- 1 pound lean ground chicken: Provides a tender, protein-packed base that absorbs all the tasty seasonings perfectly.
- 3 cups cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old): Day-old rice helps achieve the ideal texture by staying firm and not clumping during stir-frying.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Essential for sautéing and adding a subtle richness without overpowering flavors.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens.
- 2 carrots (peeled and diced): Bring a vibrant color and gentle crunch to the mix.
- 1 cup frozen peas: A splash of green that contributes sweetness and a pop of texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a wonderful aromatic backdrop that enhances the entire dish.
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten): Enrich the fried rice with a fluffy, protein-packed element that blends beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Offers that classic salty, umami punch that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Delivers a nutty aroma that elevates the flavor profile to impressive heights.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Adds a gentle heat and earthiness without overwhelming the palate.
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced, for garnish): A fresh finishing touch that adds brightness and a bit of crispness.
How to Make Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, get everything chopped and measured. Preparing your onions, carrots, garlic, and seasonings ahead of time means the frying process will be smooth and quick, letting you focus on building layers of delicious flavor without any last-minute scrambling.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown slightly and cook through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This gives the dish its hearty, meaty core and ensures plenty of savory flavor to soak into the rice later on.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Add the remaining oil to the empty space, then toss in the diced onion and carrots. Stir and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften just enough to release their sweetness while keeping a bit of texture — this adds freshness and color contrast to every bite.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Create a space on the other side of the pan by pushing chicken and veggies aside. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes until fully cooked. Then, mix them back into the chicken and vegetables. This step adds a comforting richness and extra protein that makes the dish feel balanced and complete.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Time to add the cooked rice, preferably day-old for the best texture. Break apart any clumps and stir-fry it alongside the chicken, vegetables, and eggs. The stirring for 3 to 4 minutes lets the rice soak up all those wonderful flavors and develop a lovely slight crispness that makes fried rice such a joy to eat.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Toss in the frozen peas and stir everything together well. Let it all cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the peas are warm and the rice is thoroughly combined with the savory sauce and aromatics, creating that classic perfect fried rice flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle white pepper evenly over the fried rice and top with the sliced green onions. These final touches add subtle heat and a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the warm, savory dish you’ve created.
How to Serve Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding sliced green onions as a garnish is a classic and simple way to enhance the look and taste, bringing a crisp bite and a pop of green. For an even bolder presentation, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped fresh cilantro for added aroma and texture.
Side Dishes
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides such as steamed or stir-fried vegetables, making the meal both colorful and nutrient-rich. A small bowl of miso soup or crisp cucumber salad also complements its bold flavors while keeping the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this fried rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or pineapple halves to delight guests with a visually stunning dish. Another great idea is to use lettuce cups for a low-carb option, making each bite fresh and crisp alongside the warm, flavorful rice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Ground Chicken Fried Rice is fantastic for meal prep. Simply let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy tasty leftovers without sacrificing quality.
Freezing
If you want to keep the fried rice for longer, freezing is a smart option. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. This way, it can last for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it completely overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally while warming to prevent any sogginess and to evenly heat the dish. The result is a satisfying second meal that tastes just as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for fried rice, which can lead to a mushy texture. Day-old rice dries out slightly, allowing it to fry up nicely and stay separated, giving you that perfect texture every time.
Is ground chicken a healthy choice for fried rice?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a lean protein option that’s lower in fat compared to ground beef or pork. It keeps your fried rice light but still rich in flavor and protein, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, bean sprouts, or even baby corn. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so each vegetable remains crisp and fresh.
What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have allergies?
If you need a soy-free alternative, tamari or coconut aminos work beautifully and bring a similar salty umami flavor. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust amounts to taste.
How do I prevent the fried rice from sticking to the pan?
Using a well-seasoned wok or a large non-stick skillet with enough oil helps prevent sticking. Also, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding ingredients, and stir frequently yet gently to keep everything moving without burning.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a wonderful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor in a way that truly delights the senses. I encourage you to give it a try soon, especially when you want a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours on it. Once you master it, this will surely become one of your favorite go-to recipes to have in your culinary repertoire.
Print
Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with lean ground chicken, day-old rice, fresh vegetables, and a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, this recipe delivers a well-balanced meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound lean ground chicken
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced, for garnish)
Grains
- 3 cups cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old)
Oils & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Spices
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Chop all vegetables including onion and carrots, mince the garlic, and thinly slice the green onions for garnish. Measure out soy sauce, oils, and crack the eggs to lightly beat them. Having all ingredients ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Cook Ground Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue until the chicken is fully cooked through, no longer pink, and slightly browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. If needed, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the empty side. Add the diced onions and carrots and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Scramble Eggs: Push chicken and vegetables to one side to create space in the pan. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble continuously for 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Then combine the scrambled eggs with the chicken and vegetables.
- Add Rice and Stir-Fry: Add the day-old cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the mixture of rice, chicken, vegetables, and eggs for 3-4 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb flavors and develop a slight crisp texture.
- Season and Combine: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the frozen peas, mixing thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly coated with seasoning.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the white pepper over the fried rice and garnish with the sliced green onions before serving to add freshness and a mild bite.
Notes
- For best texture, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated to prevent clumping and sogginess.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or pork if preferred.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or bean sprouts to customize the dish.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to taste, especially if using low-sodium soy sauce.
- Make sure to cook eggs thoroughly but avoid overcooking to maintain a tender texture.
- Using a wok or a large non-stick skillet helps with even cooking and easy stirring.
