Elevate your weeknight dinner with the delightful simplicity of Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice—a healthier and tastier alternative to the classic takeout favorite. This recipe not only delivers on the comforting flavors of savory fried rice but also embraces the efficiency and health-conscious benefits of the air fryer.
The magic begins with day-old jasmine or basmati rice, perfectly cooked and cooled to separate the grains for that ideal fried rice texture. In the air fryer basket, a symphony of ingredients comes together as diced chicken, vibrant mixed vegetables, and beaten eggs are air-fried to perfection. This quick and efficient method ensures that each component is cooked just right—chicken tender, vegetables crisp, and eggs delicately scrambled.
The second act unfolds as the air fryer transforms the day-old rice into a canvas of flavor. With a drizzle of sesame oil, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, the rice takes on a rich and savory profile, air-frying to achieve that sought-after crispy texture. The final act reunites the chicken, vegetables, and eggs with the flavored rice, creating a harmonious blend that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Garnished with sliced green onions, this Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice is ready to take center stage on your dinner table. With reduced oil usage and the convenience of the air fryer, you can indulge in the comforting flavors of fried rice without the guilt. Serve this dish hot and savor the delightful combination of textures and tastes—a perfect union of convenience, health-consciousness, and pure culinary satisfaction.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and cooled jasmine or basmati rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and/or diced bell peppers)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, break up the day-old rice to separate the grains.
- In the air fryer basket, combine the diced chicken, mixed vegetables, and beaten eggs. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked, vegetables are tender, and eggs are scrambled.
- Remove the chicken, vegetables, and eggs from the air fryer basket.
- In the air fryer basket, add vegetable oil and minced garlic. Stir in the day-old rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
- Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and scrambled eggs back into the air fryer basket. Stir to combine and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well heated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serving size may vary):
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal per serving
- Total Fat: ~15-20g
- Saturated Fat: ~3-5g
- Cholesterol: ~100mg
- Sodium: ~800-1000mg
- Total Carbohydrates: ~40-50g
- Dietary Fiber: ~3-5g
- Sugars: ~2-4g
- Protein: ~15-20g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
This Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice delivers all the savory satisfaction of the classic dish while being prepared with less oil. It’s a versatile and flavorful option for a quick weeknight meal, showcasing the convenience and health benefits of using an air fryer.