Title: Easy Thai Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Better Than Takeout!
Make authentic Thai chicken fried rice at home in under 30 minutes! This quick stir-fry is packed with tender chicken, jasmine rice, and classic Thai flavors.
Thai Chicken Fried Rice (Khao Pad Gai)
Looking for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal? This Thai chicken fried rice—known as Khao Pad Gai—is a staple in Thai cuisine and a favorite in homes and street stalls across Thailand. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with tender chicken, jasmine rice, and umami-rich sauces.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-wok wonder is the perfect weeknight dinner or quick lunch.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 200g boneless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or scallions
- Sliced cucumber, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prep the rice:
Use cold, day-old jasmine rice for best texture. If using fresh rice, spread it out and let it cool/dry slightly.
2. Cook the chicken:
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chicken slices and stir-fry until cooked through, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Add onion and egg:
Push chicken to the side. Add onion and sauté briefly, then crack in the egg and scramble until just set.
4. Add the rice and sauces:
Toss in the rice and break up clumps. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and pepper. Mix well until evenly coated and fragrant.
5. Finish with green onions:
Stir in green onions and cook for 1 more minute. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot:
Plate the fried rice and serve with lime wedges, cucumber slices, and chopped cilantro.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Chicken Fried Rice:
- One-pan meal = easy cleanup
- Customizable with veggies, shrimp, or tofu
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Authentic flavor with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for using leftover rice
Serving Suggestions:
- Thai chili sauce or Sriracha on the side
- Fried egg on top for extra richness
- Pair with Thai iced tea or lemongrass drink
- Add Thai basil or chopped chilies for extra heat
Tips & Variations:
- No jasmine rice? Use any long-grain rice, but jasmine adds the best aroma.
- Want it spicier? Add Thai bird’s eye chilies while stir-frying.
- Make it healthier: Use brown rice and add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your oyster sauce.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Q: Can I freeze Thai fried rice?
A: Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a pan.
Q: Is Thai fried rice different from Chinese fried rice?
A: Thai fried rice uses jasmine rice and includes unique flavorings like fish sauce and sugar for a signature Thai twist.
Final Thoughts:
This Thai chicken fried rice is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai street food to your home kitchen. It’s a must-try for fried rice lovers and a perfect way to elevate leftovers into something amazing.
Tried this recipe?
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