Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Fried rice has been making people happy since the Sui Dynasty in China.

This popular dish, which began as a staple of the dining table in Asia, has spread across the globe because it’s delicious, simple to prepare, and makes a satisfying main course or accompaniment to another dish. 

The easy Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is delicious solo or teamed with other entrees.

It’s a great way to use leftover rice, chicken/meat/seafood, and vegetables.

Customizing your protein is simple, and the recipe can be vegan. 

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

What is the secret ingredient in fried rice?

The secret ingredient in fried rice is the two tablespoons of sesame oil that uniquely flavors the food. 

Does fried rice need egg?

Fried rice doesn’t necessarily need an egg, although some cooks incorporate a scrambled egg in their interpretation of the dish. So, no, the only mandatory things are rice, fat to fry, and vegetables. 

Should you boil rice before frying?

Starting with cold or frozen, day-old rice is perfect for attaining those unique chewy grains that the best fried rice possesses, so if possible, cook and refrigerate the rice the day before.

Does rice have to be dry to fry?

While the rice doesn’t necessarily have to be dry, it helps the sesame oil fry into a delicious and satisfying dish! 

How to serve Better Than Takeout Fried Rice?

Enjoy Better Than Takeout Fried Rice as an entree or a side dish. Try pairing it with egg drop soup, egg rolls, gyoza, sauteed broccoli, or spring rolls. For dessert, consider chilled fruit or almond cookies. 

Cooking Tips:

• The rice is best if made the day before.
• Have your protein source cooked, prepped, and diced. 
• Vegetables should be defrosted if frozen and washed and chopped if fresh. 

Variations:

The recipe takes wonderfully to protein; you can add beef, chicken, pork, poultry, seafood, sauteed mushrooms, eggplant, or tofu. It also accepts a range of vegetables. So if you’re wondering about adding bell pepper, carrots, peas, or zucchini, the answer is a resounding yes! If you can conceive it and have it on hand, add it.  

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice
• Chicken thighs
• Mixed frozen vegetables
• Onion chopped
• Eggs
• Minced garlic
• Sesame oil
• Soy sauce

How to make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice:

Step 1. Add the sesame oil to a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove.

Step 2. Place the onion and mixed vegetables into the heated skillet and saute until the onion begins to soften.

Step 3. Lower the heat to medium.

Step 4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and saute for another 30 seconds.

Step 5. Shove the vegetables to one side of the skillet, and crack the eggs into the skillet. Stir the eggs to scramble them, and allow them to cook completely.

Step 6. Mix the ingredients in the skillet together.

Step 7. Add the rice to the skillet.

Then, add the chicken to the skillet.

Stir to combine.

Step 8. Pour the soy sauce over the mixture, and toss to coat everything well.

Step 9. Saute another minute or two before serving.

Serve warm!

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How to Store Better Than Takeout Fried Rice?

Note: Rice can contain Bacillus cereus spores, which can survive the boiling temperature. It’s important to cool and refrigerate the leftover rice quickly. First, spread it thinly on a baking sheet or tray so it cools rapidly. Then, when cool, put it into a container, cover it, and refrigerate.

How to reheat Better Than Takeout Fried Rice?

Whichever heating method you choose, break up clumps, add a splash of water and a few drops of oil or a bit of butter if you like. Be sure that the rice is heated thoroughly.

• Stove: Put the rice in a covered saucepan, and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 150 C. Place the rice in an ovenproof dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the rice in a microwaveable dish, cover, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir with a fork, then microwave it for 1-2 minutes.

How long does Better Than Takeout Fried Rice last in the fridge?

First, fried rice should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. Stored leftover fried rice in airtight containers can be kept in the fridge for 1-3 days. Or, freeze the Better Than Takeout Fried Rice recipe in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, maintaining its best quality for six months.

Can I make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice ahead of servicing?

You can do the 15-minute prep for easy Better Than Takeout Fried Rice the day before, prepping the chicken or vegetables. And cooking the rice the day before you plan on serving helps the individual rice grains achieve crispy perfection when fried in sesame oil. However, with a cooking time of only 15 minutes, it’s best to create the dish just before serving. 

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Egg Rolls – A tasty appetizer filled with ground pork, coleslaw, and spices.

Crown Royal Cherry Brownies Balls – A unique treat featuring chocolate-covered cherries and chocolate fudge brownies.