Are you ready to make a dish that’s both tasty and easy? Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and rich flavors in one pan. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal. Follow my simple steps to create a vibrant dish loaded with flavor. Let’s dive into this quick and fun cooking adventure!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
Flavor Enhancers
– 4 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Additional Components
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
The main ingredients for teriyaki chicken fried rice are simple yet flavorful. I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. Dicing them makes cooking easier and faster. Day-old jasmine rice is the best choice. It stays firm and does not get mushy. Fresh vegetables add color and crunch.
For flavor, teriyaki sauce is key. It brings sweetness and a hint of umami. Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. Sesame oil provides a nutty aroma. Together, they create a rich taste that is hard to resist.
I also love adding garlic and ginger. They bring warmth and a lovely fragrance. Green onions give freshness and a nice pop of color. Scrambled eggs add richness and protein. Finally, sesame seeds are perfect for garnishing. They make the dish look beautiful and add a bit of crunch.
This combination of ingredients makes for a dish that is not just tasty but also simple to prepare. It’s a meal that can please everyone at the table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
– First, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok.
– Next, add the diced chicken thighs. Season with salt and pepper.
– Cook the chicken until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Preparing the Eggs
– Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet.
– Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side.
– Scramble the eggs until fully cooked. Then mix them with the chicken.
Combining the Ingredients
– Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir for about a minute until fragrant.
– Introduce the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
– Add the cooked jasmine rice, teriyaki sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Finalizing the Dish
– Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring often to crisp the rice.
– Fold in the chopped green onions and sesame oil, mixing well.
– Garnish with sesame seeds before serving to add a nice touch.
Tips & Tricks
Using Day-Old Rice
Using day-old rice helps your fried rice stay fluffy. Fresh rice can be too wet. This leads to mushy fried rice, which is not what we want. When storing rice, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and ready for cooking.
Achieving the Best Flavor
Choose a good teriyaki sauce for the best taste. Some popular brands are Kikkoman and Soy Vay. You can also add extra flavors. Try adding a splash of lime juice for brightness. Chopped cilantro or chili flakes can give it a kick.
Cooking Techniques
For frying rice, a large skillet or wok works best. A non-stick surface helps prevent sticking. Use medium-high heat to cook the rice well. This helps it crisp up and add texture. Stir often to avoid burning but let it sit for a moment to create that great crisp.
Variations
Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in teriyaki chicken fried rice. Chicken breast is a lean choice. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Shrimp adds a nice touch of seafood flavor.
When cooking chicken breast, cut it into small pieces. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown. For tofu, press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and sauté until crisp. Shrimp cooks quickly, only needing 3-4 minutes until pink. Adjust your cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to mix in other veggies. Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Broccoli gives a nice crunch. Snap peas are fresh and tasty. You can even use frozen veggies for convenience.
When adding new vegetables, think about their cooking times. Cook veggies that need longer first, like broccoli. Then add quicker-cooking ones, like snap peas. This keeps everything tender yet crisp.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free dish, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It tastes similar but is gluten-free.
For vegan versions, skip the eggs and use tofu. This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying. You can also add more veggies or nuts for added protein. These small changes make teriyaki chicken fried rice fit various diets.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep leftover teriyaki chicken fried rice fresh, store it in the fridge. Use airtight containers. This helps keep the rice from drying out or absorbing odors. Let the rice cool before sealing it to avoid steam buildup.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze teriyaki chicken fried rice, first cool it down fully. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For reheating, microwave it or use a skillet. Add a splash of water to help it heat evenly.
Shelf Life
Cooked teriyaki chicken fried rice lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for an off smell, discoloration, or a slimy texture. If you notice any of these, it’s best to discard the rice.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice has more fiber than jasmine rice. This can make it a bit healthier. However, it takes longer to cook. Brown rice usually cooks in about 45 minutes, while jasmine rice cooks in 15-20 minutes. If using brown rice, make sure to adjust your cooking time.
How can I make teriyaki chicken fried rice spicier?
To add heat, try these options:
– Add red pepper flakes to the oil when cooking.
– Include sliced fresh chili peppers when you add the garlic and ginger.
– Drizzle some sriracha sauce before serving.
These tips will give your dish a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.
Is this teriyaki chicken fried rice healthy?
Yes, teriyaki chicken fried rice can be healthy. It has protein from chicken and eggs. The mixed vegetables add vitamins and minerals. The dish also has healthy fats from sesame oil. A serving typically has around 400 calories. It can be a balanced meal when served with a side salad.
In this blog post, I shared how to create delicious teriyaki chicken fried rice. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for great flavor. Variations for proteins and vegetables provide options for your taste. Storing leftovers is easy if you follow the guidelines.
In conclusion, cooking this dish is simple and satisfying. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. You’ll find a meal that’s both tasty and versatile, perfect for any night.
