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Quick and Tasty Leftover Chicken Fried Rice

A quick and delicious fried rice recipe using leftover chicken, perfect for busy evenings. Simple to make and fully customizable.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cold, cooked rice (day old is best, jasmine or long grain)
  • 1 to 1.5 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
  • 1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn, bell pepper, or frozen mix)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari), plus more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional) adds depth
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or avocado)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion or 3 scallions, chopped
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • red chili flakes or sriracha (optional for heat)
  • 1 wedge lime (optional, for finishing) brightens everything

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Break up any clumps of rice with your hands so it’s loose and ready.
  2. Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and get it hot until it shimmers.
  3. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set, then slide them to a bowl.
  4. Add another splash of oil, toss in the onion or scallions and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  5. Add the mixed veggies and stir fry until warmed through and slightly tender.
  6. Add the leftover chicken and stir until heated and lightly browned in places.
  7. Add the rice, spreading it out and letting it sit for 30 to 60 seconds to toast. Stir occasionally to get crisp bits.
  8. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Drizzle sesame oil and toss to coat.
  9. Add the scrambled eggs back in and toss with pepper, chili flakes for heat, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

For best results, keep the pan hot and avoid overcrowding. Store leftovers in a sealed container for 3-4 days in the fridge.