This Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a fragrant, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic jasmine rice, and colorful vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection with a zesty kick of lime and spice. The perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes each bite an absolute delight!
Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make, but it’s also versatile! You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu, or add any vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing a meal for family and friends, this Thai Chicken Fried Rice is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
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1 lb chicken breast, diced
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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1/2 cup carrots, diced
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1/2 onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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3 tablespoons fish sauce
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 lime, cut into wedges
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Fresh cilantro for garnish
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Red chili for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add garlic, onions, peas, and carrots, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
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Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs and cook until set.
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Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine with the eggs and vegetables.
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In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture over the rice and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to soak up the flavors.
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Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is well mixed and heated through.
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Serve with a squeeze of lime, garnish with fresh cilantro, and add a chili for extra heat if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken, the subtle fragrance of jasmine rice, and a variety of colorful vegetables, all stir-fried together in a savory sauce. This dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner, a family meal, or even a dish to impress guests at a casual gathering.
The Origins of Thai Fried Rice
Fried rice is a dish that has its roots deeply embedded in many Asian cuisines. However, in Thailand, it has evolved to reflect the rich culinary traditions of the country. Thai fried rice is often characterized by its balance of savory, salty, sweet, and sour flavors, with a prominent emphasis on fresh herbs, spices, and fish sauce. The ingredients vary from region to region, but the core of any Thai fried rice remains the same – rice, vegetables, proteins (like chicken, shrimp, or pork), and a sauce made with soy sauce, fish sauce, and sometimes sugar.
Unlike Chinese-style fried rice, which often relies heavily on soy sauce for flavor, Thai fried rice incorporates a more complex set of flavors, with fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sometimes lime juice or chili adding distinct notes of umami, tang, and spice.
Why Thai Chicken Fried Rice is the Best Choice
- Quick and Easy to Make
One of the main reasons why Thai Chicken Fried Rice has become a go-to meal for many is its simplicity and speed. Using leftover rice (preferably day-old rice), you can whip up this delicious meal in less than 30 minutes. The process involves stir-frying the ingredients, so it’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. - Balanced and Nutritious
This dish is not only full of flavors, but it’s also nutritionally balanced. It includes lean protein from chicken, fiber and vitamins from vegetables like peas and carrots, and carbohydrates from rice. The addition of egg provides healthy fats and proteins, making the dish filling and wholesome. You can also tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs – use brown rice for added fiber or opt for tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version. - Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best features of Thai Chicken Fried Rice is how customizable it is. You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more fresh chilies or chili paste. If you like your fried rice more on the savory side, feel free to increase the amount of fish sauce or soy sauce. Additionally, you can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even leafy greens to further enhance the nutritional value. - Full of Bold and Vibrant Flavors
What makes Thai Chicken Fried Rice stand out is its bold flavor profile. The combination of fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates an umami-packed base, while the lime juice and fresh cilantro brighten the dish with a burst of citrusy freshness. Adding a bit of sugar rounds out the taste, providing a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the sauces. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some red chili flakes or fresh sliced chili for an extra kick. The result is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy that excites the taste buds with every bite. - A Versatile Leftovers Dish
Leftover rice is a staple in many households, and Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a perfect way to use it up. The recipe is ideal for repurposing day-old rice, making it a great option to reduce food waste. In fact, the rice works best when it’s a little drier, allowing it to fry up better without turning mushy. So, when you have extra rice from a previous meal, you can easily transform it into a completely new, flavorful dish with just a few fresh ingredients and sauces. - Perfect for Meal Prep
Thai Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent option for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can even be frozen for longer storage. This makes it a great choice for preparing meals in advance, especially when you’re busy or want to have home-cooked food ready at any time. Simply store the fried rice in airtight containers, and you can reheat it for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes just as good as when it was first made.
Health Benefits of Thai Chicken Fried Rice
- Lean Protein
Chicken breast, the main protein in this dish, is low in fat and rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also a great source of B vitamins, such as niacin and vitamin B6, which play important roles in energy production and metabolism. - Packed with Vegetables
The addition of vegetables such as peas, carrots, and onions provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carrots, for instance, are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while peas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. This makes the dish not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients that are beneficial to your overall health. - Rich in Healthy Fats
Eggs are another key ingredient in Thai Chicken Fried Rice. They provide healthy fats and essential fatty acids, which are important for heart health. Eggs are also a good source of protein and various micronutrients like vitamin D and choline. - Customizable for Different Diets
Thai Chicken Fried Rice can be easily modified to suit various dietary preferences. For those looking to cut back on carbohydrates, it can be made with cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice. You can also switch out the chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu, depending on what protein you prefer. Moreover, those following a gluten-free diet can easily substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free version, making the dish safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
A Delicious Way to Enjoy Thai Flavors
Thai Chicken Fried Rice is an amazing dish that allows you to enjoy the vibrant and diverse flavors of Thai cuisine without leaving your home. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and can be tailored to your specific tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick and tasty weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this Thai Chicken Fried Rice has you covered.
With its aromatic blend of spices and savory ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for so many. And with the added bonus of being a fantastic way to use leftover rice, it’s a win-win for both your taste buds and your kitchen!
Conclusion
Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and convenience. Its balance of savory chicken, aromatic jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, and bold seasonings makes it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner, a meal prep option, or simply a way to enjoy the delicious flavors of Thai cuisine at home, this recipe has you covered.
Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile and customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. From adding extra veggies to switching up the protein, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice, making it both practical and delicious.
The best part is that it’s not just tasty – it’s nutritious too. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats, Thai Chicken Fried Rice offers a wholesome, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. So, next time you’re craving a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s sure to impress, give this Thai Chicken Fried Rice recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!