Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice. It combines tender, savory chicken coated in a lightly sweet teriyaki glaze with fluffy rice and vibrant veggies for a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Using day-old rice helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture—each grain separate and lightly crisped. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice recipe is my go-to because it strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet without overwhelming the palate. It’s versatile, quick to whip up, and uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The chicken stays juicy and tender thanks to the quick sauté, and the addition of sesame oil and ginger adds layers of aromatic depth. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to use leftover rice and vegetables, reducing food waste while still delivering a dish that feels fresh and exciting. If you love dishes like Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls or crave something hearty after a busy day, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for the best texture)
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn – fresh or frozen)
• 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for that subtle sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (adds nutty aroma and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

What’s in the Gear List

• Large non-stick skillet or wok – for even cooking and easy stir-frying
• Spatula or wooden spoon – to stir and toss ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredient quantities
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken, veggies, and aromatics
• Grater or microplane – to grate fresh ginger easily

Stepwise Method: Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before heating your pan, dice the chicken breast into small, uniform pieces. Chop the green onions, keeping the white and green parts separate. Mince the garlic cloves and grate the ginger fresh for the best flavor. If you’re using frozen mixed vegetables, thaw them slightly to avoid excess water in the pan.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook Chicken

Add the vegetable oil to your skillet or wok and heat it over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the diced chicken. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then sauté until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the edges, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pan, add the white parts of the green onions, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to release their fragrant oils without burning. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through but still crisp-tender.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Chicken

Add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring everything together to combine evenly.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Finish Cooking

Pour the soy sauce and sprinkle the brown sugar over the rice mixture. Stir well to coat every grain and piece of chicken. Drizzle the sesame oil over the top and toss in the green parts of the scallions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to warm through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish for a lovely crunch and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy!

Substitutions by Category

• Protein: Swap chicken breast with diced turkey, shrimp, or firm tofu.
• Vegetables: Feel free to use bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets instead of mixed veggies.
• Sauces: Use tamari or coconut aminos if you prefer a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Oil: Substitute vegetable oil with canola or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice works well if cooked and cooled properly; brown rice is a whole grain option.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Using freshly cooked rice: Fresh rice is too moist and sticky, which can lead to mushy fried rice. Day-old rice dries out, giving you better texture.

• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once causes steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Burning garlic or ginger: These aromatics can turn bitter if cooked on too high heat or too long. Add them after the chicken cooks and stir quickly.

• Skipping the sesame oil: It adds an essential nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the dish.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving without stirring to prevent uneven heating. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well if it’s cooked and cooled properly beforehand. It adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, making your Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice even heartier.

Is it better to use fresh or frozen vegetables?

Both work fine, but frozen mixed vegetables are convenient and often picked at peak ripeness, which means good flavor and nutrition. Just thaw them slightly before adding to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, toss in some red pepper flakes, a drizzle of chili garlic sauce, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers while cooking the aromatics. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice?

The best method is reheating in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently until heated through. This helps maintain the rice’s texture better than microwaving.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry – A nutrient-packed, lean protein and vegetable combo with a savory sauce.
• Asian Cucumber Salad – Crisp, refreshing, and lightly dressed with sesame and rice vinegar.
• Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls – Sweet and tangy chicken served over rice, perfect for a flavorful meal prep.

Let’s Eat

Ready to dive into this vibrant and satisfying Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice? With its perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, each bite feels like a little celebration of Asian-inspired comfort food. Whether you’re feeding yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for busy nights or casual weekend dinners. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or steamed greens to round out your meal. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!

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