Sesame Chicken Fried Rice

 Sesame Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, aromatic sesame oil, and delicious fried rice with vegetables. It's an easy, satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or using up leftover rice!

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil (for marinating)

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Fried Rice:

2 tbsp sesame oil (for frying)

1 small onion, diced

1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for extra flavor)

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1-2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Toss to coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Fried Rice:

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.

2. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.

3. Stir in the garlic and mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

4. Add the Rice:

1. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps.

2. Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and mix everything well.

5. Scramble the Eggs:

1. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan, then pour the beaten eggs into the empty side.

2. Scramble the eggs for 1-2 minutes until fully cooked, then mix them into the rice.

6. Combine and Serve:

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together.

2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

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Tips:

For extra flavor, drizzle more sesame oil over the rice just before serving.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables.

Use cold, leftover rice for the best texture, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried.

Sesame Chicken Fried Rice is a flavorful and hearty meal that combines tender chicken, crispy rice, and delicious seasonings in one easy-to-make dish!