Air fryer Chicken Fried rice

Here’s a recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice, a delicious and convenient way to make this classic dish with less oil and effort. Using an air fryer can give your fried rice a delightful crispiness while keeping it healthier.

Introduction

Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and healthy twist on the traditional fried rice. The air fryer helps achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil, making this dish a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Fried Rice:
  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or day-old)
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Preparing the Chicken

    1. Season Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
    2. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
    3. Cook Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden, crispy exterior. Remove the chicken and set aside.

    Preparing the Fried Rice

    1. Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and optional ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
    2. Scramble Eggs: Push the garlic to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix with the garlic.
    3. Add Rice and Vegetables: Add the cooked rice, frozen peas and carrots, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
    4. Season Rice: Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir and cook until the rice is heated through and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    5. Finish with Green Onions: Stir in the sliced green onions.

    Final Touch in Air Fryer (Optional)

    1. Crisp Rice: For a crispy texture, transfer the fried rice back to the air fryer basket and air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.

    Serving

    1. Serve Hot: Serve the Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

    Tips for Success

    • Rice: Use cold or day-old rice for the best results. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy.
    • Chicken Options: You can use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to save time.
    • Vegetables: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add extra protein like shrimp or tofu.

    Conclusion

    Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice is a healthier and more convenient way to enjoy this beloved dish. With a crispy texture and flavorful ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick meal or meal prep. Enjoy the satisfying taste of fried rice with a lighter touch!

    This recipe provides a detailed guide for making a delicious and healthy version of chicken fried rice using an air fryer, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.

Directions