Craving a quick meal that’s packed with flavor? My Savory Sesame Chicken Fried Rice is your go-to solution! With just a few simple ingredients like cooked chicken, veggies, and jasmine rice, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. Plus, you can customize it to fit your taste. Ready to discover how easy it is? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 3 green onions, sliced
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
To make Sesame Chicken Fried Rice, you need these simple ingredients. I recommend using day-old rice. It helps keep the dish from being too sticky. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist.
You can use any diced chicken you like. If you have leftovers, that works great too. Mixed vegetables make it colorful and tasty. I use carrots, peas, and bell peppers for a nice mix.
Sesame oil is key in this dish. It gives a rich, nutty flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it flavorful without being too salty. Adding oyster sauce is optional but gives a nice depth.
Don’t forget the eggs! They add protein and creaminess. Green onions and sesame seeds make great toppings. They add freshness and crunch.
Make sure to have salt and pepper ready for seasoning. This blend of ingredients creates a quick and yummy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Chicken
First, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. You want the chicken heated through but not dry. It should stay juicy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Preparing Vegetables
Next, add another tablespoon of sesame oil to the same skillet. Toss in the mixed vegetables, like carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes. Your goal is to achieve a tender texture without losing their crunch.
Combining Ingredients
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked. Then, add the cooked jasmine rice. Break up any clumps as you mix. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, if you’re using it. Stir everything together.
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss in the sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well mixed and hot. Serve your Sesame Chicken Fried Rice hot, garnished with extra sesame seeds and green onions if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Using Day-Old Rice
Using day-old jasmine rice makes a big difference. The rice dries out slightly, which helps it fry better. Fresh rice can be too sticky. If you need fresh rice, cook it first, then spread it out on a tray. Let it cool for about 30 minutes. This step helps to dry it out before frying.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, try adding garlic or ginger. A splash of rice vinegar can add brightness. You can also play with sauces. Swap soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option. For a spicy touch, add sriracha or chili flakes. Customize your fried rice to fit your taste!
Presentation Tips
Serve your Sesame Chicken Fried Rice in a large bowl for a family-style meal. This dish looks great topped with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. You can add a wedge of lime on the side for a fresh kick. For a pop of color, consider adding peas or red bell peppers as garnishes.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use these tips:
– Tofu: Dice firm tofu into cubes.
– Tempeh: Crumble tempeh as a tasty option.
– Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for texture.
Protein Variations
You can swap chicken for other proteins. Here are a few ideas:
– Shrimp: Cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
– Beef: Use thin strips and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
– Tofu: If using tofu, ensure it’s well-pressed and diced.
Adjust cooking times based on your choice of protein. Always ensure they are cooked through.
Vegetable Alternatives
Feel free to change the mixed vegetables. Here are some great choices:
– Broccoli: Adds crunch and color.
– Zucchini: Sliced zucchini cooks quickly.
– Snow peas: Offer a sweet snap.
Using seasonal vegetables can enhance your fried rice’s flavor and nutrition. Always choose your favorites!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your sesame chicken fried rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool down to room temperature first. This prevents moisture buildup. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it in a few days. For longer storage, freeze the fried rice. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat fried rice is in a skillet. Heat it on medium-low. Add a splash of water or sesame oil. This helps keep the rice moist. Stir it often to heat evenly. You can also use a microwave. Place the rice in a bowl and cover it. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This keeps the texture nice. If you want extra flavor, add a bit of soy sauce while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice. Brown rice works well but has a nuttier taste. Long-grain rice can also work, but the texture may differ. Jasmine rice offers a lovely floral aroma that enhances this dish. If you choose a different rice, adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is Sesame Chicken Fried Rice gluten-free?
Sesame Chicken Fried Rice can be made gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Check oyster sauce for gluten-free labels, as some brands add wheat. This change keeps the dish flavorful without gluten. Always read labels carefully to ensure safety for gluten-free diets.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers for up to four days in the refrigerator. Place the rice in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure it cools down before sealing. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Frozen rice can last for about three months.
This blog post covered how to make Sesame Chicken Fried Rice. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. I shared ideas for flavor tweaks, variations, and storage methods. You now have the tools to create a tasty meal tailored to your taste. Remember, cooking is fun, so feel free to experiment. Enjoy your cooking!
