Ground Chicken Fried Rice: A Quick and Healthy Weeknight Meal

Looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner that doesn’t take hours to make? This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is the answer! Packed with lean protein from ground chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish is not only flavorful but also budget-friendly. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a delicious alternative to takeout that you can easily make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is a one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and full of nutritious ingredients. The ground chicken adds lean protein, while the vegetables (carrots, peas, and onions) offer fiber and vitamins. Using day-old rice gives the dish a fantastic texture, with the rice absorbing all the savory flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground chicken

• 3 cups cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• ¼ teaspoon white pepper

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Chop the vegetables and measure out the seasonings ahead of time. This will make the cooking process quicker and smoother.

2. Cook the Ground Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil (if needed) to the empty side of the pan. Toss in the diced onions and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.

4. Scramble the Eggs

Push the chicken and veggies to one side of the pan again, making space. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan. Scramble the eggs for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until they’re fully cooked. Once done, mix the eggs into the chicken and vegetables.

5. Add the Rice

Add the day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir-fry the rice with the chicken, vegetables, and eggs for 3-4 minutes. This will help the rice absorb all the flavors and get a slight crispy texture.

6. Season and Finish

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir in the frozen peas. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and well combined.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the white pepper over the fried rice and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 365 kcal per serving

Variations

1. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor.

2. Spicy Fried Rice: Add a touch of sriracha or chili flakes to the soy sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Protein Swap: Swap the ground chicken with ground turkey, pork, or beef, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.

4. Rice Alternatives: For a low-carb version, you can substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This fried rice can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer bag or airtight container. To reheat, microwave or heat in a pan until warmed through.

Reheating: Reheat the fried rice in the microwave or in a pan on medium heat, adding a little splash of water or soy sauce if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Day-old rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, which makes for better fried rice. However, you can use fresh rice if you don’t have leftovers, but be sure to let it cool and spread it out to dry a bit before using it.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by replacing the ground chicken with tofu or tempeh, and using plant-based eggs if desired. You can also swap the soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free.

How can I make the fried rice spicier?

If you like spice, add a bit of sriracha sauce or chili oil to the soy sauce mixture for extra heat. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili peppers while cooking.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn. Just be sure to add them directly to the pan without thawing, and cook them until heated through.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, works best for fried rice because of its texture. You can also use brown rice for a healthier version.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep all the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, just stir-fry everything together. It’s a great meal prep option!

How do I make fried rice crispy?

To get a crispy texture, let the rice cook undisturbed for a minute or two during the stir-frying process, allowing it to develop a slight crisp on the bottom before stirring.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more servings. Just be sure to use a large enough pan to cook everything evenly.

Conclusion

This Ground Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect weeknight meal: quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With lean ground chicken, plenty of veggies, and the savory goodness of soy sauce and sesame oil, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout that your whole family will love. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Enjoy this homemade fried rice as a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!

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