Spicy Chicken Fried Rice

Spicy Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, all with a kick of heat that makes it irresistible. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals and is ideal for using up leftover rice or turning a simple weeknight dinner into something special. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes creates a savory, spicy flavor profile that coats each grain of rice and every bite of chicken. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or other hot chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked rice, peas, and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together.
6. Pour in the soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Stir to coat the rice evenly with the sauce. If you like it spicier, add the chili flakes at this stage.
7. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
8. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro, if using, before serving.

This Spicy Chicken Fried Rice is perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish for an Asian-inspired dinner. The balance of heat and savory flavors will leave you craving more with every bite.