Revolutionize Your Rice Dishes: How to Make Chicken Fried Rice in the Air Fryer Like a Pro
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of chicken fried rice without the hassle of deep-frying. Our air fryer method delivers a crispy, golden-brown texture that rivals traditional techniques. Follow our step-by-step guide to master this culinary delight in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Prepare the Rice
1. Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. Combine the rice and chicken broth or water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Chicken
1. If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Grill, pan-fry, or bake the chicken until cooked through.
3. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice, chicken, peas and carrots, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt.
Air Fry the Rice
1. Add the rice mixture to the air fryer basket and spread it out evenly.
2. Pour the sauce mixture over the rice and toss to coat.
3. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and crispy.
4. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the air-fried chicken fried rice from the basket and transfer it to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice will be too moist and won’t crisp up as well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will prevent the rice from getting crispy.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- If the rice starts to stick to the basket, add a tablespoon of oil and toss to coat.
- Feel free to customize your chicken fried rice with your favorite vegetables or protein.
Variations
- Vegetable Chicken Fried Rice: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Shrimp Chicken Fried Rice: Add cooked shrimp along with the chicken.
- Spicy Chicken Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Brown Rice Chicken Fried Rice: Use brown rice instead of jasmine rice for a healthier option.
Recommendations: Elevate Your Weeknight Meals
Air-fried chicken fried rice offers a quick, easy, and delicious twist on a classic dish. With its crispy texture and flavorful ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So next time you crave a flavorful rice dish, reach for your air fryer and enjoy the crispy goodness of air-fried chicken fried rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rice. However, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
You can substitute hoisin sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a mixture of soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a pan on the stovetop. However, you will not get the same crispy texture.
- How do I store leftover chicken fried rice?
Store leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze chicken fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze chicken fried rice for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer or microwave.