Description
This BBQ Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines tender, smoky seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked fried rice and scrambled eggs, all brought together with a flavorful Japanese BBQ sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a savory, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, diced
- 1 Tablespoon (12g) Dark Brown Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Other Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons (48g) Olive Oil, divided
- 2 cups Cooked Rice, ideally chilled overnight
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 Tablespoons (38g) Japanese BBQ Sauce
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Mix the dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, dry mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the BBQ seasoning blend. Toss the diced chicken breast thoroughly with this seasoning, then let it rest at room temperature for 10-20 minutes to enhance the flavor and keep the chicken moist.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single even layer. Cook for 60-90 seconds until browned, then flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the fried rice: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet, then add the cooked rice, spreading it evenly across the pan to ensure even heating.
- Scramble the eggs: Create a well in the center of the rice and crack the eggs into the well. Stir the eggs gently until they begin to set, then break them apart and mix the scrambled eggs thoroughly into the rice, cooking through evenly.
- Add the BBQ sauce: Pour the Japanese BBQ sauce over the rice and stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow it to cook for 30-60 seconds so the sauce caramelizes slightly on the bottom of the skillet, adding depth of flavor.
- Finish the dish: Turn off the heat and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Serve the BBQ chicken fried rice hot immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use rice that has been cooked and chilled overnight to prevent sogginess and achieve that perfect fried rice texture.
- If you prefer extra smoky flavor, consider finishing with a splash of soy sauce or additional smoked paprika.
- Use a well-seasoned or non-stick skillet to prevent sticking when cooking the rice and eggs.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green onions for added nutrition and color.
