Do you love the irresistible combination of savory fried rice and flavorful chicken, but are trying to stick to a healthier diet? Fortunately, you can satisfy your craving for this classic dish while avoiding the oil and calories of traditional cooking methods by using an air fryer. This kitchen appliance is a game-changer! Not only does it cook food faster, but it also reduces oil usage, leaving you with a crispy and delicious dish without the excess grease. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing a fantastic air fryer chicken fried rice recipe that you and your family will surely love.
Get ready to explore a new and healthier way to enjoy your favorite dish without sacrificing taste and texture. So, let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to make this mouth-watering meal at home!
Ingredients
When it comes to making chicken fried rice in an air fryer, there are a few key ingredients you’ll need to have on hand. First and foremost, you’ll need cooked white rice — ideally chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours so it’s nice and firm for frying. You’ll also need cooked chicken, diced into bite-sized pieces.
Vegetables are a key component of any fried rice recipe, so be sure to stock up on diced onions, sliced carrots, peas, and chopped scallions. Finally, you’ll need seasonings like soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. It’s up to you to customize the recipe to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different veggies, add in a beaten egg for extra protein, or top with crispy fried onions for added texture.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be whipping up delicious and healthy chicken fried rice in no time in your air fryer.
Cooked Rice, Chicken, Soy Sauce, Eggs, Peas, Carrots
Cooked Rice, Chicken, Soy Sauce, Eggs, Peas, Carrots When it comes to making a quick and easy meal, using leftover cooked rice and chicken can be a lifesaver. Adding soy sauce for extra flavor and scrambled eggs for protein, along with some frozen peas and diced carrots for some color and nutrition, makes for a delicious and well-rounded dish. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to your liking by adding more vegetables or spices to suit your tastes.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have in your fridge or pantry. With just a few simple steps, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. So why not give this recipe a try and see how easy and delicious it can be to use up those leftovers in a creative and tasty way?
Instructions
Making chicken fried rice in an air fryer is a simple and delicious option for a quick meal. Start by preparing your rice in a rice cooker or pot, and then cook your chicken in the air fryer until it is crispy and golden brown. You can also add in any vegetables you like, such as peas, carrots, or onions.
Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside. Next, add your cooked rice to the air fryer and cook for a few minutes to get it crispy. Then, add in your chicken and vegetables, along with any seasoning or sauces you like, and cook for an additional few minutes.
Your chicken fried rice in the air fryer is ready to enjoy! This method is great for those looking for a healthier version of the classic dish, as the air fryer uses little to no oil, resulting in a healthier and satisfying meal.
1. Preheat air fryer to 400F
When it comes to air frying, the first step is crucial. Preheating the air fryer to 400F is essential for cooking your food perfectly. This step ensures that the air fryer basket is the right temperature to evenly cook your food and get the crispy texture you want.
You want to make sure your air fryer has reached the desired temperature before you start cooking. This process typically takes around five minutes, but it is worth it for the perfect end result. Preheating your air fryer will guarantee that your food is cooked evenly, without any cold spots that could potentially compromise the final dish.
So, next time you are ready to cook with your air fryer, don’t forget to preheat it to 400F before diving in!
2. Cook chicken and vegetables for 6-7 minutes
Now that you have marinated your chicken and chopped up your vegetables, it’s time to cook them up for a delicious and healthy meal. Heat up some oil in a pan on medium-high heat, then add in your chicken and stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Next, add in your vegetables and continue stirring everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
The chicken and vegetables should be a beautiful golden brown by now, and the smells wafting from the pan should be enough to make your mouth water. Be sure to use a spatula to mix everything together regularly and avoid burning anything. Depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the vegetables, additional cooking time may be necessary.
When everything is cooked to your desired level, plate up your dish and enjoy the flavorful combination of protein and nutrients. With this recipe, you can easily apply the same technique to any type of protein and vegetables that you prefer, making it a versatile and staple meal in your repertoire.
3. Add eggs and rice and cook for 3-4 minutes
Adding eggs and rice can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to make. To get started, simply crack a few eggs into a bowl and beat them until they’re thoroughly combined. Then, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
Once the oil is hot, pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and stir them constantly until they’re scrambled and fully cooked. Next, add your cooked rice into the skillet and stir it together with the eggs until it’s evenly combined. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and any excess moisture has evaporated.
From there, you can season the eggs and rice with your favorite flavors and garnishes, such as soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, or sliced avocado. This versatile dish can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and it’s a great way to use up leftover rice in your pantry. So give it a try and enjoy a delicious, filling meal in no time! Keywords: eggs, rice, skillet, recipe, leftovers, easy, delicious.
4. Add soy sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes
If you’re a fan of soy sauce then this is the step you’ve been waiting for! Once your vegetables and protein are cooked through, it’s time to add soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Soy sauce is a salty, umami-packed condiment that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. It’s made from fermented soybeans and wheat which gives it a distinct savory flavor.
When adding soy sauce to your stir-fry, make sure to distribute it evenly by stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. This will ensure that every bite is coated in that salty goodness. The longer you cook the soy sauce, the more intense its flavor becomes, so be careful not to overdo it.
A little goes a long way when it comes to this savory condiment. So go ahead and add the soy sauce to your stir fry and impress your taste buds with a burst of intense flavor!
Why Air Fryer is Perfect for this Recipe
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to cook chicken fried rice, then look no further than your air fryer! Not only does it cook the rice evenly and crisp up the chicken to perfection, but it also eliminates the need for any extra oil. With its rapid air circulation, the air fryer allows for a quick and easy cook time, making meal prep an absolute breeze. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to clean, making it a fuss-free cooking option for busy weeknights.
So the next time you’re in the mood for some delicious chicken fried rice, turn to your trusty air fryer and enjoy a meal that’s both quick and satisfying.
Crispy texture without the oil + evenly cooked rice and chicken every time
If you’re looking to achieve that crispy texture without the excess oil, look no further than the air fryer. This kitchen gadget utilizes hot air to cook your favorite foods and gives off a deliciously crispy exterior without the guilt. Plus, the air fryer allows for even cooking every time, ensuring that your rice and chicken are cooked through entirely.
Not only is this recipe healthier because it requires less oil, but it’s also a convenient and straightforward method to achieve that crispy and juicy texture. It’s like having your own personal Tyson Ranch for all your crispy chicken dreams. Give it a go and see the benefits for yourself!
Health Benefits of this Recipe
Chicken fried rice made in an air fryer can be a healthy, delicious option for those who love their Chinese takeout. Not only does cooking in an air fryer reduce the amount of oil needed, but it also cuts down on the cooking time. Chicken is a lean protein that can help build and repair muscle, while rice provides a filling source of carbohydrates.
Additionally, the vegetables in the recipe, such as carrots, peas, and onions, add important micronutrients like vitamins A and C. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich meal like this can fuel your body, keep you full, and support overall health. So the next time you’re craving Chinese food, consider making this chicken fried rice recipe in your air fryer for a healthier option.
High in protein, low in fat, and packed with veggies for a balanced meal
This recipe for a high-protein, low-fat meal is packed with vegetables and offers numerous health benefits. For starters, protein is crucial for maintaining and building muscle mass, as well as aiding in tissue repair. Eating a diet rich in protein can also prevent muscle loss, which is especially important as we age.
Meanwhile, opting for low-fat meals helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and other health issues. The abundance of vegetables in this recipe also offers a range of benefits, as they are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber is particularly important for keeping the digestive system healthy and regulating blood sugar levels.
Additionally, the antioxidants found in vegetables can help to reduce inflammation in the body and combat the damage caused by free radicals. By incorporating this recipe into your regular meal rotation, you can enjoy a range of health benefits while still indulging in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
In summary, cooking chicken fried rice in an air fryer is the ultimate fusion of modern technology and traditional cuisine. With its ability to crisp up the rice and vegetables while perfectly cooking the chicken, the air fryer takes this classic dish to new heights of flavor and convenience. So, whether you’re a fan of Chinese takeout or just looking for a tasty and fun way to use your air fryer, give this recipe a try and prepare to be blown away by the delicious results!”
FAQs
Can you make chicken fried rice in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make chicken fried rice in an air fryer. Simply cook the chicken and rice separately in the air fryer, and then combine them with vegetables and a scrambled egg for a traditional fried rice dish.
Is it healthier to cook chicken fried rice in an air fryer?
Yes, cooking chicken fried rice in an air fryer can be a healthier option than traditional frying. By using minimal oil, an air fryer can reduce the amount of unhealthy fats found in fried rice.
Can you use leftover rice in an air fryer for chicken fried rice?
Yes, using leftover rice is perfect for making chicken fried rice in an air fryer. It will produce a drier texture of rice, which is ideal for the dish.
Can you add other vegetables to chicken fried rice in an air fryer?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like to chicken fried rice in an air fryer. Some popular options include carrots, peas, onions, and bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for each vegetable to ensure they are cooked properly.