Description
American Fried Rice is a flavorful and colorful dish combining cooked jasmine rice stir-fried with tender chicken, mixed vegetables, raisins, and a blend of savory sauces. Topped with a fried egg and fresh herbs, this quick and easy recipe brings a satisfying twist to classic fried rice that’s perfect for a hearty meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
- 1/4 cup raisins (or dried cranberries for a twist)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs (for frying)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Stir-fry the Rice: In the same skillet, add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to brown slightly.
- Add Sauces and Seasoning: Add soy sauce, ketchup, fish sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder to the rice. Stir to combine, making sure all the rice is evenly coated. Taste and adjust with additional soy sauce or seasoning if desired.
- Combine Chicken, Vegetables, and Raisins: Return the cooked chicken, vegetables, and raisins to the skillet. Stir everything together until well mixed and heated through. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Fry the Eggs: In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and crack in the eggs. Fry them sunny-side-up or scramble them depending on your preference.
- Serve: Plate the fried rice and top with the fried egg. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Using cold, day-old jasmine rice helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy and helps achieve a better fried rice texture.
- You can substitute chicken breast for thighs if preferred for a leaner option.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Adjust the amount of sauces to your taste preference, especially for saltiness.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking.
- Raisins add a subtle sweetness that balances savory flavors, but dried cranberries make a nice alternative.
