Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Classics
I love making Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice, especially when I need a quick and delicious meal. The convenience of using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves me tons of time in the kitchen, allowing me to whip up this hearty dish in under 30 minutes. The fragrant jasmine rice paired with colorful veggies and savory chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it's a great way to use leftovers in a fun and satisfying way, making it a staple in my weeknight dinners.
When I first made Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors melded together. The key is to have your ingredients prepped and ready to go since everything cooks so fast. I love adding a splash of soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil as the rice finishes cooking; it elevates the dish from simple to something truly special.
One tip I found invaluable is to use day-old rice if possible. The slightly dried grains stir-fry better and won’t get mushy when combined with the chicken and vegetables. Each time I prepare this dish, the vibrant colors and delightful aromas instantly spark joy in my kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Incredibly quick and easy to prepare
- Delicious and balanced flavors with colorful veggies
- Perfect for using up leftover chicken
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of jasmine rice in this dish is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. It’s naturally fragrant, with a slightly sticky quality that helps the rice grains cling together, giving the dish a satisfying mouthfeel. Make sure to use rice that’s been cooked and cooled beforehand, as freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, which can result in a mushy fried rice. Leftover rice, if stored in the refrigerator, works best because it dries out slightly, making it easier to fry without clumping.
Rotisserie chicken not only cuts down on preparation time but also infuses your fried rice with rich, roasted flavors. Opt for a chicken with skin on; it renders fat that adds additional depth to the dish when cooked. If you find yourself with leftover chicken from another meal or a store-bought rotisserie, you can even customize the flavor profile—feel free to use barbecue or herb-seasoned chicken to vary the taste of your fried rice.
Perfecting Your Technique
Getting the frying technique right is essential for that perfect fried rice. Ensure your skillet or wok is preheated to medium-high heat before adding any ingredients. This heat will help achieve the coveted 'wok hei' flavor, a distinctive smoky aroma that elevates the dish. If your pan isn’t hot enough, the rice will steam rather than fry, leading to a less desirable texture. A quick test is to add a drop of water; if it sizzles and evaporates immediately, you’re good to go.
When it comes to adding soy sauce, remember that a little goes a long way. Start with 3 tablespoons and give your dish a taste test. The goal is to enhance the flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which will also provide a similar umami kick. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preference, and don’t hesitate to add a splash of oyster sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather and prep all your ingredients. This meal comes together quickly, so having everything ready to go is essential.
Cook the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked rice and shredded rotisserie chicken to the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to combine everything over medium heat.
Finish with Eggs and Onions
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add the chopped green onions, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the mixed vegetables and cooked rice a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, you can combine them with the chicken and eggs quickly. The flavors meld beautifully even if made ahead, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
If you prepare more than you can eat, storing leftovers is easy. Allow the fried rice to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and stir until heated through—this helps retain moisture and prevents the rice from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, garnishing your Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice adds an appealing touch. Consider topping with extra chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or even some fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. You might also serve it alongside a light cucumber salad to balance the hearty fried rice, providing a crisp contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.
For a fun twist, consider transforming the fried rice into a meal bowl. Serve it in a large bowl with an assortment of toppings, like sliced avocado, pickled ginger, or a drizzle of sriracha for heat. This not only elevates the presentation but allows everyone to customize their bowls according to their taste preferences, ensuring an interactive dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but cooking time may vary and it will have a different texture.
→ What vegetables work best for this recipe?
Feel free to use any vegetables you like! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas are great options.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and substitute with tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice
I love making Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice, especially when I need a quick and delicious meal. The convenience of using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves me tons of time in the kitchen, allowing me to whip up this hearty dish in under 30 minutes. The fragrant jasmine rice paired with colorful veggies and savory chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it's a great way to use leftovers in a fun and satisfying way, making it a staple in my weeknight dinners.
Created by: Arielle Baxter
Recipe Type: Warm & Hearty Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather and prep all your ingredients. This meal comes together quickly, so having everything ready to go is essential.
In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Add the cooked rice and shredded rotisserie chicken to the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to combine everything over medium heat.
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add the chopped green onions, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 62g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g