There is something truly satisfying about a homemade Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that brings comfort and bold flavors to your dining table with ease. This dish perfectly balances tender ground chicken with vibrant veggies, fragrant sesame oil, and the salty-sweet boost of soy sauce, all tossed together with day-old rice that gets wonderfully crispy in the pan. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity in every bite.

Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe plays a crucial role, from the lean protein to the fresh veggies and seasonings. Together, they create a delicious harmony of flavors and textures that elevate classic fried rice to something special and homey.

1 pound lean ground chicken: Provides mild, tender protein that soaks up all the savory flavors.
3 cups cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old): Day-old rice helps achieve that perfect fluffy and slightly crispy texture essential for fried rice.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Used for cooking in stages to keep ingredients from sticking and to develop flavor.
1 medium onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as it sautés.
2 carrots (peeled and diced): Bring vibrant color and a natural crunch to the dish.
1 cup frozen peas: For bursts of sweet freshness and pop of green.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic intensity and warmth.
2 large eggs (lightly beaten): Adds rich creaminess and a classic fried rice texture.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone of the dish that ties everything together.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Introduces a nutty fragrance that instantly upgrades the flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Provides gentle heat without overpowering.
2 green onions (thinly sliced for garnish): Finishing touch with a fresh, crisp bite and pop of color.

How to Make Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

The key to a smooth cooking process is having everything ready before you turn on the heat. Chop the onions, peel and dice the carrots, mince the garlic, and measure out your soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. This ensures you won’t feel rushed and each ingredient can slide perfectly into the pan at the right moment.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Let it cook until the pink disappears and it starts to develop a light golden color—around 5 to 7 minutes. This adds a wonderful savoriness and lays the foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the pan. If the pan looks dry, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onions and carrots, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften but still keep a bit of crunch. This step adds texture and a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Make a little space on the empty side of the pan and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the eggs are cooked and fluffy. Mix these scrambled eggs into the chicken and vegetables, giving the dish that classic fried rice richness and protein boost.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to add the star carb—your day-old rice. Toss it into the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice to soak in all the flavors and crisp up just a touch. This step is where this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe really starts to shine.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir in the frozen peas. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas have warmed through and all components are perfectly combined. The sesame oil adds a beautiful nuttiness that infuses every grain of rice.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle white pepper over the dish for a subtle kick, and top with thinly sliced green onions. These garnishes provide a final refreshing bite and brighten up the presentation, making your Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe irresistible.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Green onions are a classic garnish, but feel free to also add toasted sesame seeds for crunch or fresh cilantro for a herbal lift. A squeeze of lime juice can even add a zesty twist that complements the savory flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This fried rice pairs beautifully with light Asian-inspired sides like steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or a bowl of hot miso soup. These additions keep the meal balanced and bring a variety of textures to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe stuffed inside lettuce wraps or crispy wonton cups. You can also make it a main for a bento-style lunchbox, accompanied by pickled vegetables and a boiled egg for an extra protein boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and is perfect for a quick meal after a busy day.

Freezing

If you want to store it longer, this fried rice freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to help loosen the rice and prevent dryness. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it with a damp paper towel covering to keep moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

While fresh rice can be used, day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture without clumping. If using fresh rice, spread it out and cool it before cooking to remove excess moisture.

Is ground chicken healthy compared to other meats?

Ground chicken is a lean protein that tends to have less fat than ground beef or pork. It makes the dish lighter while still providing plenty of flavor and protein, making this recipe a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier take on fried rice.

Can I substitute other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, mushrooms, or snap peas depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Just ensure you adjust cooking times so they remain crisp and vibrant.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

While sesame oil adds a unique nutty flavor, you can omit it or replace it with a small amount of toasted peanut oil or even olive oil. The dish will still taste fantastic, but the sesame aroma is definitely a nice touch if you have it.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground chicken with firm tofu or tempeh crumbles, and use vegetable oil for cooking. Add extra vegetables to keep the texture interesting and season with soy sauce and sesame oil as usual.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a fantastic blend of ease, flavor, and comfort. It’s a dish that feels special without demanding too much time or complicated ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own, sharing it with family and friends who will surely ask for seconds!