Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you craving a tasty meal that's quick and easy? Look no further! My Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and fragrant rice in under 30 minutes. It’s a dish you can whip up for dinner or lunch, and it pleases both kids and adults. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering meal. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey together!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

- 1 lb chicken breast

- 1 cup mixed vegetables

Seasoning and Garnish

- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce

- Salt and pepper

- Sesame seeds

Cooking Essentials

- 2 large eggs

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil

- 3 green onions

- 2 cloves garlic

In this dish, I focus on using fresh, quality ingredients. Jasmine rice is my favorite. It adds a lovely aroma and flavor. Using day-old rice helps it fry better. The chicken breast is tender and soaks in the teriyaki sauce well.

For the mixed veggies, I like a blend of carrots, peas, and corn. They add color and crunch. I also use sesame oil for a deep flavor. Green onions and garlic give a fresh kick.

When I cook, I keep salt and pepper handy. They enhance every bite. Sesame seeds are a nice touch on top. They add a little crunch and look great.

With these ingredients, you can make a vibrant, tasty meal. This teriyaki chicken fried rice is easy and fun to prepare. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a classic dish at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

First, take 1 pound of diced chicken breast and place it in a medium bowl. Pour in 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce. Mix well to coat all the chicken pieces. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the chicken soak up those delicious flavors.

Sautéing Chicken

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes. Look for the chicken to turn golden brown and be cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Cooking Vegetables and Eggs

Now it's time to add flavor to your dish. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until you smell its fragrance. After that, throw in 1 cup of mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes until they are tender. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour in 2 beaten eggs on the other side and scramble them until fully cooked.

Combining Ingredients

Once the eggs are ready, add the 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Mix the rice with the vegetables and scrambled eggs. Then, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour in any remaining teriyaki sauce, too. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly coated.

Final Touches

Before serving, season your fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stir-frying everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until it's heated through. Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Rice

Using day-old rice is best for fried rice. It dries out a bit in the fridge. This helps each grain stay separate when cooking. Fresh rice can be too sticky. If you do not have day-old rice, spread fresh rice on a tray. Let it cool for a while to dry out a bit.

You can also try other types of rice. Brown rice adds a nutty taste. Quinoa is a great gluten-free option. Cauliflower rice is perfect for low-carb diets.

How to Perfect Wok Cooking

Temperature control is key when using a wok. Preheat your wok well before adding oil. A hot wok helps seal in flavors fast. If you add food to a cold wok, it will steam instead of fry.

Stir-frying is all about movement. Keep your ingredients moving in the wok. This way, they cook evenly and do not burn. Use a spatula to toss everything around quickly.

Customizing Flavor Profiles

You can change the flavor with different sauces. Try adding soy sauce for a saltier kick. Hoisin sauce gives a sweet touch. If you want spice, add some sriracha or chili oil.

Adjust the spice levels based on your taste. Start with a little and add more as needed. This way, you can find the perfect balance for you.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

If you want a vegetarian version, you can swap the chicken for tofu. Tofu absorbs flavors well. Use firm tofu for the best texture. Another great substitute is tempeh, which adds a nutty taste. You can also try seitan, a wheat-based protein that mimics chicken’s texture.

Additional Ingredients

Sweet additions like pineapple can brighten the dish. Fresh pineapple adds a juicy burst. You could also try mango for a tropical twist. For a crunchy finish, sprinkle nuts or seeds on top. Chopped cashews or toasted sesame seeds work well. They add texture and flavor.

Different Cuisine Inspirations

You can explore Asian fusion concepts with this fried rice. Try adding kimchi for a kick. Or mix in some curry powder for a unique taste. Regional variations exist too. In Hawaii, they use spam for a local twist. In Thailand, basil adds freshness. Feel free to get creative!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your teriyaki chicken fried rice fresh, let it cool down first. Store it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice

You can freeze teriyaki chicken fried rice to enjoy later. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It will stay good for about 2 to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Stir frequently to heat evenly.

Meal Prep Tips

For an easy week, make a big batch of this fried rice. Store it in individual containers for quick meals. This way, you can grab a portion whenever you're hungry. You can also mix in different veggies or proteins for variety. Prepare it on a Sunday for easy lunches all week long.

FAQs

What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?

You can use soy sauce or hoisin sauce as a substitute. If you want a homemade option, mix soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. This blend mimics the sweet and salty taste of teriyaki sauce.

Can I add other proteins to this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef, shrimp, or tofu. For beef, thinly slice flank steak and stir-fry it. Shrimp cooks quickly, so add it at the same time as the chicken. Tofu is a great choice too. Just press, cube, and sauté until golden.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. You can also use chili oil for extra heat. Start with a small amount to avoid overpowering the dish. Mix well and taste before adding more spice.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. Ensure your other ingredients, like vegetable oil and sesame oil, are also gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the same great flavor.

In this blog post, I shared a simple recipe for teriyaki chicken fried rice. We covered essential ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips for perfecting your dish. Remember to marinate your chicken well and use day-old rice for the best texture. You can customize flavors and even explore vegetarian options. Enjoy making this quick meal, and have fun experimenting with different ingredients. Your kitchen adventures await!