Enjoy Healthy Homemade Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is a classic takeaway dish that’s super easy to prepare at home. It’s a great dinner idea as it’s a complete meal in itself, loaded with vegetables and protein. With this recipe, it’s possible to prepare a healthier version of this classic dish, loaded with fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and healthy brown rice.

Ingredients you need for homemade chicken fried rice

To make a delicious homemade chicken fried rice, you will need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked brown or white rice
1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to cook healthy homemade chicken fried rice

The first step is to heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, chicken, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Then, add the cooked rice, peas, and carrots and stir to combine. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3 minutes. Add the soy sauce and black pepper and stir to combine. Cook for 1 more minute. Serve the chicken fried rice with your favorite toppings such as green onions, chopped peanuts, or cilantro. Enjoy!

Why homemade chicken fried rice is so healthy?

Homemade chicken fried rice is a healthy choice because it is packed with plenty of healthy ingredients. The chicken is a lean source of protein and provides essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. The brown rice is a whole grain, which means it is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables add a boost of essential vitamins and minerals as well as fiber. The soy sauce adds a flavorful umami flavor, but it should be used sparingly because it is high in sodium.

Tips for making the best healthy homemade chicken fried rice

To make the best healthy homemade chicken fried rice, here are a few tips:

Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the fried rice.
If you’re using leftover cooked rice, make sure to fluff it up before adding it to the skillet.
For extra flavor, try adding a few tablespoons of hoisin sauce.
For a vegan version, replace the chicken with extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli.
For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili sauce or sriracha.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken fried rice is a classic dish that’s easy to make at home and can be a great way to get in some extra vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious and healthy version of this classic dish. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, try making your own healthy chicken fried rice at home.