Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces

3 cups cooked day-old white or brown rice

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup shelled edamame

3 scallions, thinly sliced

3 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tsp minced ginger

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Lower the heat to medium and add the beaten eggs to the skillet. Scramble gently until soft curds form, about 1 minute. Transfer the eggs to the plate with the chicken.

Step 3: Return the heat to high and add the remaining oil to the skillet. Spread the rice in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes, allowing the bottom to crisp slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic, minced ginger, frozen peas, shelled edamame, and the white parts of the scallions. Cook for 2 more minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

Step 5: Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Scoop the fried rice into bowls and garnish with the green parts of the scallions and optional sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Using day-old rice is key to preventing sogginess—if you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and chill it to dry out before using.

For extra veggies, add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the peas and edamame.

Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to vary the protein source.

If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving.

FAQs

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

While fresh rice can be used, it often results in a softer, clumpier texture. To mimic day-old rice, spread hot cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool completely to dry out before frying.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and use tofu or extra vegetables for protein. You can also replace the eggs with scrambled tofu or omit them entirely for a vegan version.