Introduction
Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe captures the essence of Thai cuisine with fragrant jasmine rice, tender chicken, and a medley of vegetables. It’s versatile, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken breast, diced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to quickly gather and prepare the necessary ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 15 minutes, leading to a total time of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 2 to 4 servings, making it a great option for a small family or meal prep for the week ahead.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool completely, preferable refrigerating it for at least a few hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture for frying.
Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. Season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Heat the Wok
Place a wok or a large skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot oil. Stir-fry until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and lightly browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
Add Vegetables
In the same wok, add more oil if needed, and then toss in the diced onion and stir-fry until it becomes translucent. Afterward, add diced carrots and bell peppers, cooking until they are tender yet crisp.
Combine with Rice
Add the cooled rice to the vegetable mixture, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Add Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the rice and vegetables. Mix everything together evenly.
Add Seasonings
Pour in soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce, and stir well to coat all ingredients. Cook for an additional couple of minutes until everything is heated through.
Add Eggs
Create a well in the center of the rice mixture, and crack the eggs into it. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them into the fried rice.
Finish with Green Onions
Add the chopped green onions and give everything one last good stir.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the fried rice and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sauces as necessary.
Serve Hot
Serve the Thai chicken fried rice immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Using Day-Old Rice
Using rice that has been cooked and cooled or refrigerated overnight is ideal, as it helps achieve a firmer texture when frying.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or beans to customize the dish to your liking.
Protein Options
This recipe can easily be adapted with other proteins like shrimp, pork, or tofu if desired.
Spice Level
To add heat, consider including crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers during the cooking process.
Storage
Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Using Day-Old Rice
Using pre-cooked rice helps achieve the ideal texture and prevents mushiness, allowing each grain to remain separate and fluffy in the fried rice.
High Heat Cooking
Cooking on high heat ensures that the ingredients sear nicely, allowing for better flavor development and a characteristic wok hei in the fried rice.
Stir-Frying Quickly
Stir-frying the ingredients quickly helps to maintain their crispness and prevents overcooking, ensuring a vibrant and fresh dish.
Adding Ingredients in Stages
Adding ingredients in stages, starting with proteins and then vegetables, ensures even cooking and allows each component to contribute its flavors effectively.
Mixing Flavors Well
Thoroughly mixing in sauces and seasonings evenly distributes flavors throughout the rice, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use cooked rice from the fridge?
Yes, using day-old or chilled rice is ideal as it helps achieve the best texture for fried rice.
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, but any long-grain rice will work.
Can I customize the vegetables in the fried rice?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you prefer, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers, to suit your taste.
Is it necessary to use a wok?
While a wok is traditional, any large frying pan or skillet will work as long as it allows for high heat and sufficient space for stir-frying.
How do I store leftover fried rice?
Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it can be reheated in a pan or microwave.
Conclusion
The Thai Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines fragrant jasmine rice with tender chicken and a variety of vegetables, all brought together by the rich flavors of soy sauce and fish sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to utilize leftover rice. It offers a balance of textures and tastes, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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A spicy and sour soup that complements Thai fried rice beautifully, made with shrimp or chicken, lemongrass, and galangal.
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A refreshing salad made with minced meat, herbs, and a tangy dressing that pairs well with the richness of fried rice.
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A creamy and aromatic curry made with coconut milk, green curry paste, and seasonal vegetables that matches well with rice dishes.
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A sweet Thai dessert that serves as a great finish after a savory fried rice meal, combining glutinous rice with ripe mango and coconut cream.