30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice Blackstone

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Chicken fried rice is a classic dish that evokes all the comfort and warmth of a family meal. It’s quick, it’s versatile, and most importantly, it’s a dish that can be tailored to incorporate whatever you have on hand. Using a Blackstone griddle to prepare this dish elevates it, ensuring you get that beautiful, slightly crispy texture that makes fried rice so irresistible. For those busy weeknights when you need to prepare a satisfying meal in no time, this 30-minute chicken fried rice recipe is a winner.

It’s not just the taste that makes this dish special; it’s also the memory it creates. Imagine the sizzle as the chicken hits the hot griddle, the mix of colorful vegetables dancing in the heat, and the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen – it’s a dish that tantalizes your senses and brings the family together around the table. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a flavorful and savory chicken fried rice right on your Blackstone griddle with step-by-step guidance, helpful tips, and variations to suit your preferences.

What Is 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice?

Chicken fried rice is a popular Asian-inspired dish that features pre-cooked rice stir-fried with chicken and assorted vegetables. This dish is often enhanced with soy sauce or other seasonings for flavor, making it a go-to meal for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious dinner option. Traditionally, fried rice has its roots in Chinese cuisine but has quickly become a beloved staple in many countries, often customized based on available ingredients.

In this variant, we use a Blackstone griddle, which provides a large, flat cooking surface that ensures even heat distribution. This technique allows for rapid cooking while keeping the ingredients separate and nicely browned. The end result is a delightful medley of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, all infused with rich, savory flavors. This recipe typically involves sautéing your chicken and vegetables before tossing in the rice and seasoning, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice

You will absolutely love this 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice because not only is it incredibly quick to prepare, but it also creates a fantastic layering of flavors and textures. The crispy bits of rice intermingle with the succulent chicken and fresh vegetables, providing a delightful eating experience. Moreover, this dish is very cost-effective; it utilizes leftover rice, which means you’re less likely to waste food.

Many misconceptions about making fried rice suggest that it needs to be complicated or time-consuming. However, this recipe proves otherwise! With well-prepped ingredients and the right technique on your Blackstone griddle, you can whip up a delicious, hearty meal in just 30 minutes. Plus, the adaptability of this dish makes it easy to modify according to dietary restrictions or personal taste preferences. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or seasoned home cook, you’ll find this recipe enjoyable and straightforward.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked rice: Ideally, use day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, so letting it cool can help prevent clumping.
• 1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Feel free to substitute with other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables: You can use frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn for convenience.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This will add depth and umami flavor. You can use low sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This ingredient provides a robust flavor; however, you can substitute with vegetable oil if you don’t have it.
• 2 eggs: Scrambled and mixed into the fried rice. They add protein and enhance the dish’s richness.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced for flavor. Feel free to add more based on your preference.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, used for seasoning at the end of cooking.
• Green onions: Chopped, for garnish. They add a fresh pop of flavor and visually brighten the dish.

How to Make 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice

1. Prepare your ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice your vegetables if needed, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking. Cooked rice should be cold and preferably day-old.
2. Heat the Blackstone griddle: Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Ensure it is adequately heated to achieve that lovely sear on the chicken and vegetables. If you have a griddle with different temperature zones, set one area for the chicken and another for the vegetables.
3. Add sesame oil and chicken: Drizzle a tablespoon of sesame oil on the hot griddle and place the chicken pieces over it in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook chicken in batches.
4. Incorporate garlic and vegetables: Once the chicken is nearly cooked, push it to one side of the griddle. On the other side, add diced garlic and your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, then mix with the chicken.
5. Add rice and seasoning: Push the chicken and vegetable mixture to the side, creating space on the griddle for the rice. Add the cooked rice to the griddle and break apart any clumps with either your spatula or a spoon. Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and fold everything together.
6. Scramble eggs: Make a well in the middle of the rice and crack the eggs directly onto the griddle. Stir gently until the eggs are fully cooked, then mix them throughout the rice mixture. This step adds creaminess and ties all the ingredients together.
7. Check seasoning: Taste the fried rice and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a stronger soy flavor, feel free to add more soy sauce according to your taste.
8. Garnish and serve: Once everything is heated through and combined, remove the fried rice from the griddle. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, homemade chicken fried rice!

3 Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Fried Rice: If you want a meat-free version, substitute the chicken with diced tofu or additional vegetables like bell peppers and more peas. Keep the egg if you’re not following a strict vegan diet, or use scrambled tofu as a replacement for eggs. The flavors will remain vibrant, and you’ll still get a hearty meal.

Shrimp Fried Rice: For a seafood twist, switch out the chicken for shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Shrimp will add a delightful briny sweetness to the dish, making every bite a little more special.

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice: For a tropical nuance, including chunks of pineapple adds a sweet and savory combo that heightens the dish’s flavors. Just sauté the pineapple pieces alongside the vegetables for about 2 minutes until warmed through before mixing with the rest of the dish. This variation is especially popular in Thai cuisine and offers a burst of freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when making fried rice is using freshly cooked rice. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky, preventing the desirable texture of fried rice. To avoid this, always use cold, day-old rice if possible. If you have to use fresh rice, spread it out on a tray to cool before using.

Another mistake is overcrowding the griddle. When you add too many ingredients at once, it can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in mushy rice. Instead, cook proteins and vegetables in batches and make sure that items have enough space to caramelize properly, enhancing their flavors.

Lastly, remember to season thoughtfully. Since different soy sauce brands have varying salt levels, always taste as you go. Adding too much salt upfront can lead to an unpalatable dish; adding at the end allows you to control the seasoning accurately.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

For storage, keep any leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3-4 days. When storing, ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. For freezing, process the fried rice in zip-top bags or freezer-safe containers, and label them with the date. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on your Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

When reheating rice, ensure it reaches a temperature of 165°F to reduce the risk of foodborne pathogens. Always check for smell and texture before eating any leftovers to ensure they’re still good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice in place of white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice has a chewier texture and requires more cooking time, so ensure it’s fully cooked before incorporating it into the fried rice.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make chicken fried rice gluten-free, simply replace regular soy sauce with tamari or use coconut aminos. Both will provide a similar savory flavor without gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish!

Is it okay to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just remember to cook them until they are tender and adjust your seasonings accordingly.

What’s the best type of rice to use for fried rice?
The best type of rice for fried rice is long-grain rice, like jasmine or basmati, as they hold their shape well and don’t clump together. Day-old rice or rice that has been cooled in the fridge is particularly better, as it is drier and provides the ideal texture.

Can I make the fried rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken fried rice ahead of time. In fact, leftovers can taste even better as the flavors meld together. Simply store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly to the recommended temperature.

Conclusion:

This 30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice is an excellent addition to your weeknight recipe lineup. It’s quick, simple, and allows for endless personalization! You can whip this up no matter how busy your schedule is. Try out this recipe, customize it to your tastes, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Everyone deserves a delicious, home-cooked meal, so get started, and enjoy the delightful flavors of chicken fried rice!