If you’ve been searching for a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish to satisfy your craving for takeout without leaving your home, this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Combining tender, savory ground chicken with vibrant vegetables and perfectly seasoned rice, every bite bursts with rich, layered flavors. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels special yet is unbelievably easy to pull together, especially when using day-old rice for that ideal fried texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, using everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each component plays an essential role, from the juicy ground chicken adding protein and savoriness, to the mixed vegetables delivering color and a pleasing crunch that keeps the dish lively and well-balanced.
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old): Using day-old rice helps prevent clumping and creates that signature fried rice texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Lean and tender, it soaks up the sauces beautifully and cooks quickly.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Provides a neutral base for cooking without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory punch that enhances the overall dish.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn): A colorful medley for texture, nutrition, and the freshest taste.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Adds richness and a beautiful soft texture that complements the rice.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness, essential for that classic fried rice flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): For an extra layer of savory complexity and a slight sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A finishing touch that lends a fragrant, nutty aroma and deeper flavor.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh and crisp, perfect for brightness and a pop of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to bring everything into perfect harmony.
How to Make Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure your rice is cold and separated; this will ensure it fries up nicely without becoming mushy. Have everything chopped and ready to go, because this dish moves fast once the heat is on!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, season it simply with salt and pepper, and cook until nicely browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks for an even texture. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—this keeps it from overcooking while you work on the veggies.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the diced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for just another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a delicious aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
Step 4: Cook the Mixed Vegetables
Add your mixed vegetables next. Cook them until they’re tender but still have a slight bite, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step highlights the sweet crunch of the carrots, peas, and corn, keeping every mouthful exciting and fresh.
Step 5: Scramble the Eggs
Push the vegetables aside, creating some open space in the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into this cleared area and scramble until fully cooked. Once ready, fold the eggs back in with the veggies for a beautifully integrated texture and a boost of protein.
Step 6: Add the Rice
Next, add the cold rice to your skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps and mix it thoroughly with the vegetable and egg mixture. Make sure each grain is coated lightly with oil and flavorful bits from the pan—this step is key to that authentic fried rice experience.
Step 7: Combine with Chicken and Sauces
Return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet now. Pour in the soy sauce, and if you’re feeling a little extra, the oyster sauce. Drizzle the sesame oil last for that unmistakable nutty aroma. Stir everything together well and let it cook for another 3 to 5 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Step 8: Finish with Green Onions
Finally, sprinkle in the sliced green onions and stir through, adding a fresh, slightly sharp contrast that perks up the whole dish. Serve the Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe hot and watch it disappear fast!
How to Serve Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, consider adding a few fresh garnishes like extra green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or even some chopped cilantro. A wedge of lime can also add a delightful zing just before digging in.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with simple sides like steamed broccoli, a crisp Asian cucumber salad, or even a light miso soup. Each side complements the flavors without overshadowing that lovely seasoned chicken fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in a hollowed-out bell pepper or pineapple boat for an eye-catching presentation at dinner parties. Or try plating it in small, individual bowls topped with a fried egg for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well too. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it should keep nicely for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat—add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and refresh the moisture. A quick zap in the microwave works too but stirring halfway through helps it heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works beautifully and adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled properly for the best fried rice texture.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
No worries! Oyster sauce is optional and adds a deeper umami taste, but you can skip it or substitute with a bit more soy sauce or a dash of fish sauce if you like.
Can I substitute ground chicken with another protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or even finely diced tofu are excellent alternatives that work well with this recipe’s flavors.
How do I make the rice less sticky?
Day-old rice that’s been chilled in the fridge is key to avoiding stickiness. If you’re pressed for time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and cool it quickly before cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
By default, it’s mild and family-friendly, but you can add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers while cooking to bring some heat to the plate.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a well-made Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe — it’s that perfect blend of simple ingredients transforming into a dish full of flavor and personality. I can’t recommend enough that you give this recipe a try; it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm meal from home every time. Grab your wok, and let’s get cooking!
Print
Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender ground chicken, mixed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and fragrant seasonings. Utilizing day-old rice ensures a perfect texture, while soy sauce and sesame oil provide savory depth. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Rice and Protein
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Oils and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Make sure the cooked white rice is cold and separated to prevent clumping during frying. Lightly beat the eggs and have all vegetables diced and ready.
- Cook Ground Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté diced onion until translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Mixed Vegetables: Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender and heated through.
- Scramble Eggs: Push vegetables to one side of the skillet, pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space, and scramble until fully cooked. Then combine the eggs with the vegetables.
- Add Rice: Incorporate the cold cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir well to evenly coat the rice with oil and mix with vegetables and eggs.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet. Drizzle soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir thoroughly and cook for another 3-5 minutes to heat everything through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in sliced green onions evenly throughout the dish. Serve the fried rice hot and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps to achieve better texture and prevents mushiness.
- Oyster sauce is optional but adds a richer umami flavor.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity based on your preferred saltiness level.
- For a low sodium version, use reduced-sodium soy sauce and omit oyster sauce.
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or pork if preferred.
- Make sure to keep the heat medium-high to properly fry ingredients without steaming.
