Name: Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 3 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and diced carrots blend; 3 green onions, trimmed and sliced into thin rounds; 2 to 3 garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil (olive oil can be substituted); 3 to 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; Salt and pepper, optional and to taste; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or freshly grated ginger; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for spiciness

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 81 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and beats anything you’d get from your local takeout spot, this Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice all coming together in one sizzling skillet, it’s a meal that brings comfort and joy in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a frying pan with two cooked eggs and their bright yellow yolks on top. The eggs have a soft yellow and white texture with some bubbly cooked egg white around the edges. On one side of the eggs, there are small bright green peas and yellow corn kernels mixed together. The frying pan is black, and it sits on a white marbled surface. The scene is clear and close-up, showing the details of the cooked eggs and vegetables. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor, color, and texture. Each component plays an important role: from the nutty aroma of sesame oil to the delicate savory notes of soy sauce, everything works together to create that perfect fried rice harmony.

Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a toasty, fragrant layer that elevates the dish instantly.
Canola or vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a neutral base for cooking the chicken and veggies without overpowering flavors.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, diced): Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Frozen peas and diced carrot blend (1 1/2 cups): Brings a pop of color and freshness for texture contrast.
Green onions (3, sliced thin): Imparts a bright, slightly sharp flavor that lifts the entire dish.
Garlic cloves (2 to 3, finely minced): Infuses the rice with that unmistakable savory kick.
Large eggs (3, lightly beaten): Adds richness and creaminess while binding ingredients together.
Cooked rice (4 cups): The heart of the meal—preferably cold or day-old for best texture.
Low-sodium soy sauce (3 to 4 tablespoons): The essential seasoning that harmonizes every bite with umami depth.
Salt and pepper (optional, to taste): Customize seasoning to your preference for balance and brightness.

How to Make Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Juicy Perfection

Start by heating both sesame and canola oils in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced chicken and let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes. This quick, high-heat cook seals in juices, giving you tender pieces with just the right amount of browning. Flip often to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Set the Chicken Aside, Keep Those Flavors

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it gently with a slotted spoon, leaving those flavorful oils and cooked-on bits behind. These remain in the skillet, ready to infuse every other ingredient with incredible depth.

Step 3: Sauté the Peas, Carrots, and Green Onions

Into the skillet go the vibrant frozen peas and diced carrots along with the green onions. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring intermittently, until the veggies soften just enough to bring out their sweetness while still retaining a bit of bite.

Step 4: Garlic Adds the Perfect Savory Punch

Add your minced garlic next and cook for about 1 minute, stirring intermittently. Pro tip: If you love ginger’s zing, toss in half a teaspoon of ground or freshly grated ginger here for an extra layer of flavor that works beautifully with the classic fried rice profile.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs for Creamy Goodness

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and pour your lightly beaten eggs into the open space. Cook and scramble them gently, stirring as needed, until they’re just set and fluffy. This step brings a lovely creaminess and slight richness that ties the whole dish together.

Step 6: Bring It All Together with Rice and Soy Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add your cooked rice. Drizzle evenly with soy sauce and mix thoroughly, tossing and flipping so the rice soaks up all the delicious sauces and juices. Cook for 2 more minutes until everything is hot and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra soy sauce if needed. For a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes—the perfect finish!

How to Serve Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

A white bowl filled with fried rice topped with mixed vegetables and pieces of white chicken chunks. The rice is golden brown with orange carrot cubes, green peas, yellow corn kernels, and small green onion slices scattered throughout. A pair of wooden chopsticks rest on the right side, poking into the rice. The background is a white marbled texture with some blurred bits of carrot and green onion visible in the back. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes are your secret to turning a comforting dish into something extra special. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or a few more green onion slices right before serving to add a refreshing brightness. A drizzle of toasted sesame seeds or a side of crisp fried shallots also makes a beautiful crunchy contrast.

Side Dishes

This fried rice shines on its own, but pairing it with a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad or steamed dumplings takes the meal to a restaurant-worthy level. Some simple miso soup or pickled veggies can add balance if you want a full spread without a fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

Make this dish fun by serving in individual lettuce wraps or carving out bell peppers and filling them with the fried rice. You can even turn it into a vibrant fried rice bowl topped with a fried egg for extra indulgence. Presentation can be playful and colorful, making mealtime exciting for everyone gathered.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

If you have a large batch, this fried rice freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 1 month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if needed to bring back moisture. Stir frequently to heat evenly and prevent sticking. Microwave works too—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between for best results.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just keep in mind it may need a bit longer cooking time or extra soy sauce to balance the flavors well.

What’s the best way to get day-old rice?

Cook your rice ahead of time and spread it on a baking sheet to cool quickly before refrigerating. This keeps the grains from clumping, which helps it fry evenly with a perfect texture.

Can I use other protein besides chicken?

Definitely! Shrimp, pork, or even tofu work wonderfully in this dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through and tender.

Is it okay to skip the eggs?

If you’re avoiding eggs, you can certainly omit them, but they do add a lovely creaminess and binding texture. For a vegan option, scrambled tofu or just extra veggies can be great substitutes.

How do I prevent soggy fried rice?

The key is using cold, day-old rice that’s had time to dry out. Also, cooking over medium-high heat helps the rice fry properly instead of steaming, giving you that classic fried rice fluffiness.

Final Thoughts

This Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a total winner when you want a quick, satisfying meal with flavors that sing. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and truly hits all the right notes for comfort food with a homemade touch. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple!