BBQ Chicken Fried Rice brings together two beloved comfort foods in one irresistible dish. The smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce mingles with savory fried rice to create a fusion that’s both familiar and excitingly different. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to order takeout.
This 45-minute wonder transforms leftover rice and chicken into something spectacular, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and that distinctive barbecue tang creates a meal that’s sure to become a regular request in your household.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and straightforward – ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect for using up leftover rice and chicken
- Customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand
- Kid-friendly flavor profile that adults will enjoy too
- Reheats beautifully for next-day lunches
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cups cooked rice, preferably chilled overnight
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Japanese BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, dry mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the diced chicken with this seasoning blend and let it rest at room temperature for 10-20 minutes for best flavor.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 60-90 seconds without moving it to get a nice sear. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate or bowl and set aside while you make the fried rice.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the chilled cooked rice and stir to break up any clumps.
- Push the rice to the sides to create a well in the center of the pan. Crack the eggs into this well and scramble them, then mix the scrambled eggs into the rice.
- Pour the Japanese BBQ sauce over everything and stir to combine. Cook for 30-60 seconds, letting the sauce caramelize slightly on the bottom of the pan.
- Turn off the heat and add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined and serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For best results, use cold leftover rice – freshly cooked rice tends to become mushy
- Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes if you like some heat with your BBQ
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or shrimp for a different protein option
- Try different BBQ sauce flavors – honey, spicy, or smoky varieties all work well
- Make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables
- For meal prep, portion into containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days
Serving Suggestions
Serve this BBQ Chicken Fried Rice with a simple side of steamed broccoli or a crisp Asian slaw for a complete meal. A small dish of extra BBQ sauce on the side lets everyone adjust the flavor to their preference.
For a fun presentation, serve in hollowed-out pineapple halves or with crispy wonton strips on top for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- The rice should sizzle when it hits the pan – this indicates your pan is hot enough to prevent sticking
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for the best texture
- Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) if cooking from raw
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old?
While day-old rice works best because it’s drier, you can use fresh rice. Spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use your favorite! Sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all work well. The recipe is very adaptable to your personal preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the regular soy sauce with tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce, and check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free (many are, but not all).
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