Oh my goodness, have I got a delightful treat for you today! I can hardly contain my excitement over this Easy Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice recipe. I mean, can you think of a more satisfying meal than a hearty bowl of flavorful fried rice, chock-full of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and that heavenly touch of Japanese BBQ sauce? It screams comfort food to me every single time.
I remember the first time I whipped this up. I had some friends over for dinner, and you know how it goes—everyone is suddenly a food critic! I decided to go with a familiar dish, but with a fun twist, and wow, it turned into an instant hit! Since then, I’ve made this fried rice countless times for both small gatherings and just a quiet night in. Trust me, it’s not just easy to make; it’s also a breeze to customize! So, let’s dive into the deliciousness!
What’s in Easy Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice?
Cooked Rice: You’ll want about 2 cups, and I highly recommend using day-old rice if you can. It’s drier, which prevents the rice from getting mushy when frying. Plus, it reminds me of my college days experimenting with leftovers!
Boneless Chicken Thighs: About 1 lb diced. Chicken thighs are my go-to for this dish because they’re juicy and hold up well when cooked. Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra flavor?
Japanese BBQ Sauce: We’re using 3 tablespoons of that delectable sauce, which could be teriyaki or whatever you have that’s similar. I love the tangy sweetness it brings and it takes this dish from good to extraordinary!
Soy Sauce: A splash of 2 tablespoons adds that savory umami flavor we crave. I think it’s like the cherry on top in the Asian cuisine world!
Eggs: Two beaten eggs provide a bit of richness. Everybody needs a little protein love in their life, don’t you think?
Mixed Vegetables: About 1 cup of your choice (carrots, peas, bell peppers work wonderfully). I often have frozen mixed veggies on hand for those busy days when I want to throw something together quickly.
Green Onions: Three chopped for that fresh crunch and a pop of color!
Vegetable Oil: You’ll need 2 tablespoons; it’s perfect for sautéing and keeps everything from sticking.
Garlic: Two cloves minced—because garlic makes everything better. Am I right?!
Salt and Pepper: To taste. Just a pinch or two will do!
Sesame Seeds: For garnish (optional). They not only make the dish look fancy but also add a wonderful nuttiness.
Is Easy Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice Good for You?
This fried rice is not just a flavor bomb; it packs some nutritional benefits too!
Chicken Thighs: They provide high-quality protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied. Just keep in mind they have a bit more fat than chicken breasts, but hey, a little fat means more flavor!
Mixed Vegetables: These add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the mix, making your dish colorful and nutritious. You can easily sneak in whatever veggies you have handy!
Eggs: They bring healthy fats and protein to the table, helping balance your meal. Plus, they’re super convenient and quick to prepare!
Now, I won’t lie; this dish is a bit higher in carbohydrates thanks to the rice, so be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your carbs. But you can always bulk up with more veggies if you’re looking for a healthier spin!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for better texture)
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced
– 3 tablespoons Japanese BBQ sauce (teriyaki or similar)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How to Make Easy Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice?
1. Start by marinating your diced chicken thighs in the Japanese BBQ sauce for at least 15 minutes. This step really infuses the flavor!
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the marinated chicken and sauté until browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Throw in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Oh, the smell alone is enough to make your mouth water!
4. Next, toss in your mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until everything is heated and slightly tender.
5. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour your beaten eggs into the other side and scramble them until fully cooked. I love this step—it’s like watching a mini cooking show right in my own kitchen!
6. Now, add the cooked rice, cooked chicken, soy sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through (about 5 minutes, give or take).
7. Stir in the chopped green onions, and give it another minute on the heat for everything to get cozy together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy. And voilà, your masterpiece is ready to devour!
Rice-tastic Tips & Twists!
– If you have leftover veggies in the fridge, feel free to throw them in! It’s a great way to clean out the refrigerator and maximize flavor.
– If you’re a spice lover, add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
– This dish stores nicely in the fridge for a couple of days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
I hope you give this recipe a whirl—it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. And trust me, every time I make it, I get instant compliments! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t forget to share your experience. Happy cooking, friend!
