Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice.

Looking for a meal that captures the essence of your favorite takeout without the guilt? Look no further! This Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy to whip up right in your own kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic ginger makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that leftover rice in your fridge. Let’s dive into how to make this dish a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe is a reliable choice for several reasons. First, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have on hand. Second, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to swap or add vegetables based on what you enjoy or have available. Lastly, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry. Even if you’re not a culinary expert, this recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring delicious results every time.

The Essentials

To make your Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (make sure to use GF, if needed)
• 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (use to your taste)
• 3 eggs, beaten (optional)
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or sesame oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shiitake or cremini mushrooms, roughly torn
• 4 baby bok choy or 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated
• 1/2 pound chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 cups cooked, day-old rice
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or cilantro, chopped

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying ingredients evenly.
• Wooden spatula: Perfect for tossing the rice and ensuring everything is well combined.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in measuring ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Bowls: Useful for holding prepped ingredients before cooking.

Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice.: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized cubes, tear the mushrooms, and chop the bok choy or spinach. Grate the ginger and mince the garlic. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken to the pan, season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the torn mushrooms and bok choy (or spinach) and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Sauce

Add the cooked, day-old rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps as you go. Pour in the low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and hoisin sauce. Stir to combine everything evenly, letting the rice absorb the flavors for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the rice and vegetables. If you’re using eggs, push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them into the fried rice.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Garnish your fried rice with chopped green onions and fresh basil or cilantro. Give it one last stir to distribute the herbs throughout the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice hot, straight from the skillet. This dish is perfect on its own or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the comforting flavors of takeout without leaving your home!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

If you want to switch things up or cater to different tastes, consider these flavor-forward alternatives:

• Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Incorporate a splash of rice vinegar for added acidity.
• Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a unique twist.

Cook’s Notes

• For best results, use day-old rice as it has dried out slightly, preventing it from becoming mushy when stir-fried.
• Feel free to add more veggies based on the season or your cravings; broccoli, carrots, or peas work beautifully!
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
• This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and eggs, and adding additional veggies or plant-based protein.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, place the cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave or sauté in a skillet until heated through, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life.

Your Questions, Answered

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

While you can use fresh rice, day-old rice is preferable as it’s drier and less sticky, allowing for better texture in your fried rice.

What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can mix equal parts soy sauce, peanut butter, and a dash of sugar as a substitute for a similar sweet and savory flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this fried rice gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Always check the labels of your ingredients for specific dietary needs.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and eggs. You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and add more vegetables to keep it hearty and satisfying.

More from the Kitchen

• Spicy Soy-Glazed Tofu
• Quick Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Ginger Sesame Noodles
• Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

Bring It to the Table

This Better Than Takeout Sesame Ginger Chicken Fried Rice is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful and vibrant dish that will impress your family and friends. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. With its delightful balance of flavors and textures, you’ll find it hard to believe you made this at home. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that’s better than takeout!