Ground Chicken Fried Rice | Quick & Easy Dinner

Craving a delicious Asian-inspired meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than Ground Chicken Fried Rice. This versatile dish combines lean protein, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. When you’re short on time but still want a homemade dinner that impresses, this Easy ground chicken fried rice is the answer. Using ground chicken instead of chicken pieces creates a unique texture and helps the meat absorb all those wonderful savory flavors.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Ground Chicken Fried Rice

For the dish:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 carrots, diced small
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 3 green onions, thinly sliced

For the sauce:
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Kitchen tools:
– Large wok or deep skillet
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Small mixing bowl for sauce
– Measuring spoons and cups
– Cutting board and knife

Substitutions:
– Brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber
– Ground turkey works well in place of ground chicken
– Coconut aminos can substitute for soy sauce (gluten-free option)
– Any frozen vegetable mix can replace individual vegetables

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Ground Chicken Fried Rice Dish

– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 15 minutes
– Total time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4

This dish comes together quickly once you start cooking, so having all ingredients prepped and ready is essential for success.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ground Chicken Fried Rice Easily

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Set aside.

2. Cook the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in your wok over medium-high heat. Add beaten eggs and scramble until just cooked, about 30 seconds. Remove and set aside.

3. Brown the chicken: Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add ground chicken, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

4. Cook the aromatics: Add onions, garlic, and ginger to the chicken. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Add vegetables: Add carrots and stir-fry for 1 minute, then add peas and cook for another minute.

6. Incorporate rice: Add the remaining oil and the cold rice. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through.

7. Combine everything: Return the scrambled eggs to the wok. Pour the sauce over everything and toss until all ingredients are well coated and heated through. The Ground Chicken Fried Rice should have a uniform color from the sauce.

8. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions, give it one final toss, and your Easy ground chicken fried rice is ready to enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits of This Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

This balanced one-pot meal offers:
– Lean protein from ground chicken (approximately 25g per serving)
– Complex carbohydrates from rice for sustained energy
– Essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetable medley
– Lower sodium content than restaurant versions (approximately 600mg per serving)
– Approximately 420 calories per serving
– Good source of fiber, especially when using brown rice

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Ground Chicken Fried Rice Lovers

– Spicy version: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture
– Extra vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas make excellent additions
– Grain alternatives: Cauliflower rice creates a low-carb version
– Flavor boosters: A splash of fish sauce or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce adds depth
– Garnishes: Crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or cilantro leaves make elegant toppings

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Ground Chicken Fried Rice

1. Using freshly cooked rice: Day-old cold rice prevents clumping and creates the ideal texture.
2. Overcrowding the wok: Cook in batches if needed for proper heat distribution.
3. Not prepping ingredients beforehand: This fast-cooking dish requires all components ready to go.
4. Underseasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
5. Cooking over low heat: High heat creates the characteristic “wok hei” flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Fresh

– Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
– Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to restore moisture
– Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers
– Thaw overnight before reheating for best results
– Add fresh green onions after reheating for a flavor boost

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Ground Chicken Fried Rice at Home

Mastering Ground Chicken Fried Rice at home gives you a versatile recipe that’s economical, nutritious, and adaptable to your taste preferences. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this Easy ground chicken fried rice deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. The ground chicken offers a unique texture while absorbing all the savory flavors, making this dish a satisfying alternative to takeout that your whole family will enjoy.

FAQs About Cooking Ground Chicken Fried Rice

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While day-old rice produces better texture, you can use fresh rice if you spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for 1-2 hours before cooking.

Is ground chicken fried rice healthy?
Yes, it’s healthier than restaurant versions, especially when you control the oil amount and include plenty of vegetables.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace ground chicken with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Why does my rice stick together when stir-frying?
This typically happens when using warm rice or overcrowding the pan. Use cold rice and cook in batches if needed.

What’s the best oil for stir-frying rice?
Oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for the high heat required in stir-frying.