Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Bring the magic of your favorite takeout home with this sensational Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice. Each bite boasts tender golden chicken, savory buttered rice, and vibrant veggies that dance together with layers of flavor—just like the kind you crave from a top-notch Asian restaurant, only fresher and so much more customizable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice uses simple ingredients, but each one has an important purpose. These essentials come together for a savory, comforting meal that hits that spot every time—don’t skip the small touches, they make all the difference!

• Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle infuses that classic nutty aroma that makes fried rice taste so “restaurant-y.”
• Neutral Oil (like avocado or canola): Helps sear both the chicken and veggies without overpowering other flavors.
• Chicken Breasts: Cutting into tiny pieces means maximum flavor and quick cooking, giving you ultra-tender bites.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds deep, savory umami—using low-sodium keeps things balanced so the rice isn’t too salty.
• Butter: This is the “secret” to that rich, glossy finish only restaurant fried rice ever seems to have!
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish and subtly tenderizes the chicken—trust me, it’s the zing fried rice needs.
• Salt & Pepper: Building flavor all the way—never rely just on soy sauce for seasoning here.
• Diced White Onion: Brings natural sweetness and aroma when sautéed with veggies.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Peas and carrots add color, nutrition, and that signature fried rice textural mix.
• Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make it “takeout-style” and add protein plus a little richness.
• Cooked Rice (cool to touch): Leftover or microwaveable rice is perfect—it won’t clump or get mushy like fresh rice.
• Sesame Seeds (optional, for garnish): Add a satisfying finishing touch of crunch and visual flair.

Variations

The beauty of Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice is how easily it transforms to suit your cravings, fridge contents, or any dietary needs. Feel free to make it your own—all it takes are a few creative swaps or additions!

• Make It Spicy: Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
• Swap Proteins: Use shrimp, pork, tofu, or extra eggs instead of chicken to easily personalize for vegetarians or seafood lovers.
• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or corn for more color, crunch, and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and double-check your other mix-ins for a totally gluten-free meal.

How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the sesame oil and neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high—don’t skimp on this: high heat is key for that signature “wok hei” flavor. Once shimmering, add your small chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for a minute to build that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Sauce, Butter & Lemon Magic

Pour in the soy sauce, then swirl in a tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir just once or twice: this is how you keep those bites juicy and brown. Once the chicken is no longer pink (about 1–3 minutes), move it to a bowl, and give the skillet a quick wipe—it’s about to get even better.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Add a little more oil to the skillet, turn the heat back to medium-high, then toss in the diced onions and frozen veggies. Sauté for about three minutes—just until the onion softens and everything looks bright and glossy.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggies to one side. Crack the eggs directly into the empty side of the pan and use a spatula to gently scramble until just set—think fluffy, not dry. The open skillet lets the eggs firm up quickly and blend naturally with the rest.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Rice

Add the cooled rice and the rest of the butter to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for five minutes, letting the rice soak up all the goodness while lightly crisping in spots—it’ll smell absolutely irresistible by now.

Step 6: Combine & Finish

Pile in the cooked chicken, pour over the remaining soy sauce, and season with a little more salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat every grain with flavor. Let it warm through, then dish up your homemade restaurant-style chicken fried rice, finish with sesame seeds if you like, and serve piping hot!

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Garnishes

For a true restaurant finish, I love sprinkling sesame seeds over the top—just a pinch adds crunch and flair. Try a scattering of finely sliced scallions for freshness, or even a hint of chili crisp oil if you like a tiny pop of spice and color!

Side Dishes

This dish is absolutely satisfying on its own, but it also loves good company. Serve your restaurant-style chicken fried rice with steamed or roasted broccoli, crispy spring rolls, or a simple Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to add a wow factor, pile your chicken fried rice into lettuce cups for fresh hand-held bites. Or, serve it mounded high in individual bowls with extra sesame seeds and chili oil on the side—just like your favorite takeout spot only cozier!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool before packing in airtight containers. Your restaurant-style chicken fried rice keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, perfect for quick lunches or ready-to-go dinners.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. It’ll freeze well for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or a dab of butter, stirring gently until hot. For smaller portions, the microwave works, too—just cover loosely to keep the rice moist and fluffy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this restaurant-style chicken fried rice—there’s truly nothing like mastering this weeknight wonder at home. With each golden, steamy bowl, you’ll feel like a takeout pro (and your kitchen will smell amazing!). So gather your ingredients and make it tonight; it’s guaranteed to become an instant favorite.

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