PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

When it comes to recreating restaurant favorites at home, P.F. Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice is what I call a timeless dish that’s always there when you need it!

You get the perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory fried rice all in one dish.

I’ve got you covered on how to pull off making it just like PFC’s.

My first tip?

Use cold, day-old rice. It keeps the grains from sticking together and gives you that authentic restaurant texture.

How to Make PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups Jasmine Rice (cooked)
• 1/2 pound Chicken Breast (diced)
• 2 Eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup Carrots (diced)
• 1 cup Peas (or green beans)
• 1 Bell Pepper (chopped – optional)
• 3 Green Onions (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by cooking the jasmine rice according to the package instructions.

Once done, set it aside to cool.

This will help keep the rice from clumping together.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add diced chicken and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 3:

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add sesame oil and garlic.

Let it cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.

Step 4:

Add the beaten eggs, scrambling them until they’re fully cooked.

Then, stir in carrots, peas, and chopped green onions.

Sauté the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5:

Return the chicken to the skillet and mix in the cooled rice.

Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and stir everything together for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Preparing the Rice

I find using day-old rice works wonders since it tends to be less sticky and absorbs the flavors better.

You can make a batch of rice a day early and store it in the fridge overnight.

Perfecting Your Sauce

Mixing a bit of molasses with soy sauce can give your dish that unique restaurant taste.

A small amount is sufficient to enhance the overall flavor.

Cooking the Chicken Just Right

Cooking chicken breast to the right tenderness is key.

Avoid overcooking, so you maintain that juicy, tender bite in every mouthful.

What to Serve with PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice

Stir-Fried Vegetables

You really can’t go wrong with a side of stir-fried vegetables to complement your chicken fried rice.

Opt for broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas for a tasty and colorful contrast.

A splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds give them a lovely finishing touch.

Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup works brilliantly as a starter for your meal.

It’s light but flavorful, providing a warm counterpoint to the savory fried rice.

Adding a few green onions or a touch of white pepper can elevate this simple soup.

Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crunchy, cool element to your meal.

Mix sliced cucumbers with a little rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a hint of chili flakes if you like some heat.

It’s quick to prepare and wonderfully refreshing.

Spicy Edamame

For a slightly different take, try serving edamame seasoned with garlic and chili sauce.

They make a satisfying snack or side dish that’s both healthy and packed with flavor.

It’s an unexpected twist that complements the rich taste of chicken fried rice.

Mango Salsa

Mango salsa might seem unusual, but trust me, it’s a delightful fresh twist.

The sweet mango with a hint of lime, red onion, and cilantro can cut through the richness of the fried rice beautifully.

It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate!

Variations and Substitutions

Using brown rice instead of jasmine rice can give your dish a heartier texture and a slightly nutty flavor.

Switching to quinoa for a protein boost is another great option.

If you prefer your fried rice without meat, feel free to simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Protein Alternatives

Shrimp or tofu can add a different twist to your meal without needing any major recipe adjustments.

For those who prefer pork, consider using finely diced pork tenderloin for a flavorful variation.

Sauce Adjustments

For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari.

Experimenting with different oils like avocado oil can also add a unique flavor profile to the dish.

Spices and Add-Ins

If you like it spicy, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper.

Throw in a handful of cashews or sliced almonds for a crunchy touch.

Feel free to get creative by adding in some fresh herbs for a burst of flavor at the end!

How to Store Leftover PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice

Use an Airtight Container

Always store your leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

This helps maintain the flavor and texture, preventing any unwanted odors from creeping in.

Keep in the Refrigerator

Place the container in the refrigerator if you plan to enjoy the leftovers within the next day or two.

This will ensure that the rice stays safe to eat and retains its flavor.

Freeze for Longer Storage

If you won’t be eating the leftovers soon, consider freezing them.

Transfer your fried rice to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Be sure to label it with the date so you know how long it’s been in there.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Cold Rice

You might think that using freshly cooked rice is a good idea, but it leads to a mushy texture instead of the perfect fried rice.

For the best results, use day-old rice that’s been properly chilled.

This helps keep the grains separate and achieves that satisfying texture.

Overcrowding the Pan

Resist the urge to throw everything into the pan at once!

Overcrowding it can result in steaming rather than frying, and you’ll lose the wonderful flavors that come from proper stir-frying.

Use a large pan and work in batches if necessary.

Skipping the Sesame Oil

Don’t skip the sesame oil! It’s essential for that signature flavor you’re aiming for in this dish.

While you might be tempted to use any oil on hand, sesame oil adds a distinct nutty aroma.

Incorporate it at various stages of cooking for depth in taste.