Description

American Fried Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish combining fragrant jasmine rice with tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a sweet-savory sauce made from soy sauce, ketchup, fish sauce, and spices. Topped with fried eggs and garnished with fresh herbs, this easy-to-make stir-fry offers a delightful fusion of Asian and Western influences, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Protein

3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
2 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, diced (or chicken breast)
2 eggs (for frying)

Vegetables and Add-ins

1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
1/4 cup raisins (or dried cranberries for a twist)

Sauces and Seasonings

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
Fry the Rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to brown slightly, ensuring even heat distribution.
Add Sauces and Seasonings: To the rice, add soy sauce, ketchup, fish sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine thoroughly, making sure all the rice is evenly coated. Taste and adjust with extra soy sauce or seasoning as needed.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken, vegetables, and raisins to the skillet. Stir everything together until well mixed and heated through. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
Fry the Eggs: In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and fry them sunny-side-up or scramble them according to your preference.
Serve and Garnish: Plate the fried rice and top each serving with a fried egg. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and enjoy your American Fried Rice!

Notes

Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy and achieves better texture during frying.
You can substitute chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or beef.
Adjust the level of sweetness or saltiness by modifying the amount of sugar, soy sauce, or fish sauce.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and fish sauce, replacing fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative.
Serve with chili sauce or sliced fresh chili if you prefer a spicy kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion