Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes) Recipe

If you are craving a meal that is quick, flavorful, and satisfying, you are going to love this Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes). This recipe takes humble, everyday ingredients and turns them into a vibrant, comforting stir-fry that bursts with texture and color. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a delicious homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen, this fried rice balances savory ground chicken, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice all in one skillet. It’s an absolute go-to that never fails to impress and delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes) starts with its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that classic fried rice flavor and texture you love, while keeping things straightforward and accessible.

• 1 pound lean ground chicken: Lean and flavorful, it’s the perfect protein base that cooks quickly.
• 3 cups cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old): Using day-old rice prevents mushiness and helps achieve that ideal fried rice texture.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Neutral oil with a high smoke point to keep everything sizzling without burning.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a little crunch to balance the dish.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced: For color, subtle sweetness, and a bit of bite.
• 1 cup frozen peas: A quick way to add vibrant green and mild sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant foundation that elevates the whole dish.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Scrambled in for extra richness and texture.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty umami backbone tying everything together.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Brings a nutty, aromatic finish that is essential in fried rice.
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper: Adds a subtle warmth without overpowering flavors.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish): Fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green that makes the dish pop visually.

How to Make Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, have all your veggies chopped, garlic minced, eggs beaten, and sauces measured. This little prep session keeps the cooking smooth and fast, which is key to the success of this quick recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want the chicken fully cooked and lightly browned, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a savory, meaty base for the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan to make room. If the pan looks dry, add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the empty side. Toss in your diced onions and carrots and stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften just enough to stay crisp and sweet, complementing the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Slide the chicken and vegetables to one side again. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the open space and quickly scramble them, stirring continuously. This should only take 1 to 2 minutes until they’re cooked through and fluffy. Then fold the eggs into the rest of the mixture, creating a lovely combination of textures.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Now it’s time for the star of the show: the day-old rice. Add it to the skillet, breaking up any lumps with your spatula. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes so the rice absorbs flavors and develops a hint of crispness that elevates the dish beyond plain fried rice.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil for a perfect balance of savory and nutty notes. Add the frozen peas and give everything a thorough mix. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas are heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by seasoning the fried rice lightly with white pepper for subtle heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top for that classic fresh touch. Your Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes) is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes)

Garnishes

Green onions are a must for a fresh crunch and vibrant color, but you could also try toasted sesame seeds for nuttiness or a drizzle of sriracha if you like some heat. Each garnish adds its own little burst of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This fried rice stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, steamed broccoli, or even crispy spring rolls for a complete meal that feels special yet effortless.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this fried rice in crispy lettuce cups or inside halved bell peppers for a charming presentation. You could also top it with a fried egg to make it an extra hearty one-pan meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or quick dinner the following day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes) by packing it tightly into a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to revive its original moisture and flavor. Microwaving works too but stirring occasionally will help it warm evenly without drying out.

FAQs

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

Freshly cooked rice tends to be more moist and sticky, which can lead to a mushier fried rice. Day-old rice dries out a bit, making it easier to achieve that desired separated grain texture essential for perfect fried rice.

Is ground chicken a healthy choice for fried rice?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is lean and high in protein, making it a healthier alternative to other meats like pork or beef. It absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks quickly for your busy schedule.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Feel free to toss in bell peppers, corn, mushrooms, or snap peas depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Just adjust cooking times slightly if adding firmer veggies.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

While sesame oil adds an authentic nutty aroma, you can substitute with a drizzle of toasted walnut oil or simply omit it if necessary. The soy sauce still provides plenty of flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce. Regular soy sauce contains wheat, so swapping in tamari or coconut aminos keeps the recipe safe if you’re avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Ground Chicken Fried Rice (20 Minutes) combines speed, simplicity, and irresistible flavor into a single skillet meal that will quickly become a weekday favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, the balance of textures and fresh ingredients makes every bite a delight. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be your go-to fried rice recipe too. So go ahead, grab your wok, and start cooking – your taste buds will thank you!

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