Taste Texas in Every Bite: Classic Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

When you think of Texas, you might imagine BBQ, steaks, or Tex-Mex, but there's another dish that has made its way into the hearts of Texans: Chicken Fried Rice. Combining elements of both Asian and Texan cuisine, this dish brings together tender chicken, savory rice, and just the right amount of spice. With Texas-sized flavor and simplicity, it’s a perfect meal for any night of the week.

Photo byNick Davies

Texas is known for its bold and hearty dishes, and Chicken Fried Rice fits right in. The state’s love for flavorful, filling meals shines through in every spoonful. Fried rice may have originated halfway across the world, but Texans have made it their own by adding a special twist. Imagine golden-brown rice stir-fried to perfection, combined with juicy pieces of chicken and fresh vegetables, all seasoned with the perfect blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It’s a dish that truly represents the fusion of cultures and culinary traditions that Texas is famous for.

Recipe: Texas-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old is best)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds a bit of Texas flair)
• 1 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for some Texas heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and cook the onions and garlic until softened and fragrant.
3. Push the onions and garlic to the side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them in with the onions and garlic.
4. Add the last tablespoon of oil, followed by the cooked rice. Stir-fry the rice for a few minutes until heated and lightly toasted.
5. Add the cooked chicken, peas, and carrots, and stir everything together.
6. Drizzle in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder (if using), stirring to evenly coat the rice.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

A Taste of Texas in Every Bite This Texas-style Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cultures coming together. The tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and added Texan flair with Worcestershire sauce and chili powder make this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s versatile enough to be a quick weeknight dinner or a standout dish at your next gathering.

The beauty of Chicken Fried Rice lies in its adaptability. You can customize it to your liking by adding more vegetables, swapping chicken for beef, or even using some local Texas sausage for a true Lone Star twist. With its satisfying flavors and simple preparation, this Chicken Fried Rice recipe is sure to become a regular on your table.

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Family Recipe