Introduction
Welcome to a dish that’s not only quick and easy but also packed with wonderful flavors and textures! This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful combination of savory ground chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, making it the perfect weeknight meal. With a beautiful balance of soy sauce and sesame oil, each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice, making this recipe both economical and satisfying. Let’s dive into making this hearty dish!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula — this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil along with the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which will take about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced carrots to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the carrots are tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the frozen peas and the cooked rice, mixing everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet, making sure to distribute it evenly throughout the rice mixture.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated.
- Push the fried rice mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked, then mix them into the rice.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adding just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with the sliced green onions just before serving, giving the dish a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes or Tips
For the best texture, use day-old rice, as it tends to be drier and will not clump together. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding any seasonal vegetables you have on hand or your favorite sauces to enhance the flavor. If you love a kick of heat, consider adding a dash of chili sauce!
Cooking Techniques
Stir-frying is the key technique in this recipe, allowing the ingredients to cook quickly while retaining their vibrant colors and crunch. Remember to keep the heat at medium-high to achieve that slight char and depth of flavor, which elevates the entire dish. Be sure to use a spacious skillet or wok, so you have enough room to toss the ingredients without overcrowding.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile — you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the fried rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Conclusion
This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its wonderful flavors and convenient prep time, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So grab a skillet, get cooking, and prepare for smiles all around as your family digs in!