PF Chang’s Fried Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving takeout but longed for the satisfaction (and savings!) of making it at home, you’re going to love this recipe for PF Chang’s Fried Rice. Packed with layers of flavor, restaurant-style textures, and customizable ingredients, this classic dish transforms humble leftover rice into a lunch or dinner super-star. Whether you’re keeping it strictly traditional or tossing in your own twists, one thing’s certain: you’re about to bring a crowd-pleasing favorite to your own kitchen table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of PF Chang’s Fried Rice is how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can deliver restaurant-quality results. Every component plays a role, from savory sauces to crisp veggies, blending together for that signature taste and texture.

• Cooked Jasmine Rice: Opt for day-old rice for the best texture; it fries up fluffy and doesn’t get mushy.
• Eggs: Provide richness and pockets of tender flavor throughout the rice.
• Carrots: Diced carrots add color and just the right hint of sweetness and crunch.
• Green Onions: Lend a pop of color and a fresh, mildly sharp bite.
• Frozen Peas: A classic addition for sweetness and color—no need to thaw first!
• Soy Sauce: The main salt source that delivers umami depth—low sodium works well, too.
• Oyster Sauce: Brings that signature PF Chang’s depth and a hint of sweetness, making the flavors sing.
• Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil finishes the dish, infusing a wonderful nutty aroma.
• Vegetable Oil: The high smoke point makes it perfect for hot, quick stir frying.
• Minced Garlic: Essential for a punch of savory flavor that lingers just right.
• Chicken, Shrimp, Pork, or Tofu (optional): Add your favorite protein to make it a satisfying main dish.
• Ground Black Pepper: A finishing sprinkle for a subtle zesty kick.

How to Make PF Chang’s Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before firing up the pan, be sure everything is ready to go: dice your carrots, finely slice the green onions, thaw your peas (if desired), crack and beat the eggs, and have your protein cooked and chopped if you’re using one. Success with PF Chang’s Fried Rice comes from quick moves at the stove, so having everything prepped is key for a stress-free cooking experience.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

Heat a large wok or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble until just set—think soft and pillowy, since they’ll cook more later. Transfer them to a plate so they don’t overcook while you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Veggies and Aromatics

Add a touch more oil to the pan and turn the heat up high. Quickly stir-fry the carrots and minced garlic until fragrant and the carrots start to soften, about 1-2 minutes. Toss in the peas and the white parts of the green onions, cooking for another minute. This step forms the flavor base that gives PF Chang’s Fried Rice its crave-worthy taste.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Sauce

Crumble the chilled rice into the skillet and raise the heat so it fries rather than steams—don’t overcrowd the pan. Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to ensure every grain gets coated. The rice should start to get a little toasty and deeply savory right away.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return your scrambled eggs and any cooked protein to the pan. Stir everything together, then drizzle with a bit of toasted sesame oil for that signature aroma. Sprinkle in the green part of the onions and a good pinch of black pepper, tossing just until heated through—now you’ve got perfect PF Chang’s Fried Rice ready to serve!

How to Serve PF Chang’s Fried Rice

Garnishes

Finish your PF Chang’s Fried Rice with a flourish of sliced green onions, a scattering of sesame seeds, or a few drops of extra sesame oil for aroma. A squeeze of fresh lime takes it in a zesty direction, while chili crisp or sriracha adds a bold kick—the choice is yours for a final pop!

Side Dishes

This fried rice is wonderful on its own, but it also plays well with others. Pair it with steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or quick stir-fried veggies for a colorful, satisfying spread. If you’re going all out, a sweet and sour chicken or spicy Mongolian beef will make your meal feel restaurant-worthy.

Creative Ways to Present

Channel your inner chef by serving PF Chang’s Fried Rice in little individual bowls or on a big platter for sharing. Stuff it into bell peppers and bake for a fusion twist, or create lettuce wraps for a light and playful appetizer. Kids (and adults) love it made into fried rice patties, pan-fried until crisp on the edges!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your PF Chang’s Fried Rice to an airtight container and pop it into the fridge within an hour or two of cooking. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making for easy next-day lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in resealable freezer bags (lay them flat to save space). Frozen fried rice is a busy-night lifesaver, reheating beautifully in a hot pan or the microwave for up to three months after you make it.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat PF Chang’s Fried Rice in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat, spritzing with a bit of water or extra soy sauce to revive any lost steam. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

While you can use freshly cooked rice, it may turn out a bit stickier. For the best PF Chang’s Fried Rice texture, spread fresh rice on a tray and let it cool uncovered for at least 30 minutes, or use day-old refrigerated rice for those signature fluffy grains.

Is it possible to make this fried rice gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and be sure your oyster sauce is certified gluten-free. Double check your other ingredients too—then you can enjoy PF Chang’s Fried Rice without worry.

What protein options work best in PF Chang’s Fried Rice?

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: diced chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu all work deliciously. If starting with raw protein, cook it fully before adding to the finished rice to ensure it stays juicy and ready to eat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, bean sprouts, or broccoli florets all add color and crunch. Just be sure to cut everything small and stir-fry briefly until crisp-tender before adding the rice.

What’s the trick to restaurant-style flavor?

High heat is key, which gives the rice a hint of smokiness and a bit of crispy edge—the signature of great PF Chang’s Fried Rice. Preheat your pan well and don’t crowd it, working in batches if necessary for the very best results.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve unlocked the secrets behind PF Chang’s Fried Rice, go ahead and give it a try—your kitchen is about to become everyone’s favorite new “takeout” spot. There’s something so satisfying about mastering a classic, and with this recipe, you’re sure to win rave reviews. Happy cooking!

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