There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle of a skillet filled with savory ingredients, and our chicken bacon fried rice brings this experience right to your kitchen. This delectable dish provides the perfect balance of crispy bacon and tender chicken, enveloped in aromatic rice seasoned just right. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, the combination of textures and flavors in this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.
I remember the first time I tried making this dish; it was a spontaneous decision on a chilly Friday evening. Having just a few ingredients left in the fridge, my family and I decided to improvise. What began as a simple experiment soon turned into a family staple. The laughter and chatter filling our kitchen that night were unforgettable, and this dish has been a go-to comfort food since then.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not your everyday fried rice; it’s packed with layers of flavor and surprises. The savory bacon adds a rich depth and a hint of smokiness, while the tender chicken pieces keep it hearty and fulfilling. It’s a convenient one-pan dish, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand, perfect for using up leftovers. Lastly, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal for busy nights.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the bacon and chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside in separate bowls. This step is crucial for even cooking and ensuring that everything is ready to go once you start cooking.
Step 2
In a large skillet or wok, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon of fat in the skillet for added flavor.
Step 3
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked. The key is to not overcrowd the pan, which helps in achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 4
Introduce your pre-cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the chicken, ensuring each grain is warmed through and slightly crisped. Don’t forget to season with soy sauce and your choice of spices to enhance the flavor further.
Step 5
Finally, reintroduce the bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together before serving, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Storage Options
Leftovers should be cooled down before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer preservation, you can freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile. For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken and bacon with tofu and additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas. For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of Sriracha or chili flakes. Gluten-free soy sauce can be used for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! In fact, day-old rice works best for fried rice as it is less sticky and better absorbs flavors. Just ensure that the grains are separated before adding them to the skillet.
What’s the best way to reheat fried rice?
To maintain the dish’s texture, reheat the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to moisten the rice, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can customize this dish with more vegetables. Options like carrots, snap peas, or broccoli not only add variety but also enhance the nutrition profile of the dish, making it both delicious and healthy.
Chicken Bacon Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
- 1 pound chicken breast diced
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 eggs beaten
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Saute minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Push garlic to the side and pour in beaten eggs, cooking until scrambled. Mix back in with the garlic.
- Add rice, cooked chicken, and bacon back to the pan along with peas and soy sauce. Stir well and cook until heated through.
