Healthy Fried Rice with Chicken (Quick Weeknight Meal)

This Healthy Fried Rice with Chicken recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and any mixed vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it takes just a short time to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Why make this recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences. By using brown rice and plenty of vegetables, this recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite. It’s a filling meal that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it great for families or individuals wanting to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 cup diced chicken breast
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned.
3. Push chicken to one side of the skillet and add the mixed vegetables, cooking until tender.
4. Scramble the eggs in the empty side of the skillet.
5. Combine the chicken, vegetables, and eggs; add cooked rice.
6. Pour soy sauce over the mixture, stirring to combine.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and top with chopped green onions before serving.

How to serve it

Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with the chopped green onions. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. For added flavor, you could provide extra soy sauce or chili sauce at the table.

How to store it

Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Helpful tips

• Ensure your brown rice is fully cooked and cooled before adding it to the skillet. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
• Feel free to adjust the vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Adding a protein like shrimp or tofu can make this fried rice even heartier.

Optional variations

• For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu as your protein source.
• Add spices or chili flakes to give it a bit of heat if you enjoy spicy food.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! In fact, day-old rice is ideal for fried rice as it’s drier and less sticky, which helps to achieve a better texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the vegetables.

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