Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor, crispy texture, and comforting vibes, then look no further! This Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice is the perfect combination of juicy, crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, served alongside a colorful, veggie-packed fried rice. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Trust me, it’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat, but it’s easy enough to make on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice

Here’s why this recipe will quickly become your go-to:

• Crispy Chicken Perfection: The chicken comes out crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, thanks to the perfect breading and a delicious, sticky sauce.
• Flavor Explosion: The tangy-sweet sauce adds a rich layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory vegetable fried rice.
• One-Dish Wonder: Serve the chicken and rice together, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s filling, balanced, and delicious.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer a sweeter sauce, extra spice, or different veggies in your fried rice, you can adjust the recipe to your liking.
• Family-Friendly: With its crunchy chicken and flavorful rice, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to create this crispy, saucy masterpiece:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great here. Choose your favorite for the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat.
• All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the chicken before frying, which creates that crispy golden crust.
• Cornstarch: Helps achieve extra crispiness when combined with the flour.
• Eggs: To help the flour and cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken its ultra-crispy exterior.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the chicken before frying.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, bringing that savory umami flavor.
• Honey: Adds a sweet and sticky element to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Rice Vinegar: Provides a touch of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick to the sauce.
• Sesame Oil: A small amount of sesame oil enhances the overall flavor of the sauce, making it more aromatic.
• Chili Flakes (optional): For a bit of heat if you like a spicy kick!

For the Fried Rice:

• Cooked Rice: Ideally, use day-old rice, as it fries up better and doesn’t get mushy.
• Mixed Vegetables: A mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds color, texture, and nutrients to the rice. You can use frozen vegetables for convenience.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a burst of fresh flavor to the rice.
• Garlic: Minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor in the rice.
• Eggs: Scrambled eggs are a classic addition to fried rice, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce for seasoning and depth of flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil gives the fried rice that signature Asian flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through this step by step so you can bring this delicious meal to the table!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper. In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another, combine the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and finally the breadcrumbs, making sure each piece is fully coated. This three-step breading process will give your chicken that crispy, golden crust.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Step 4: Prepare the Fried Rice

While the chicken is cooking, heat a little sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes until they’re heated through and slightly tender.

Push the veggies to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the vegetables. Add the rice, soy sauce, and green onions, stirring to combine everything. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the prepared sauce over the crispy chicken, tossing to coat each piece in that sweet and savory glaze.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy saucy chicken on top of the vegetable fried rice, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering meal!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 600 calories
• Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 38g
• Vitamin A: 30%
• Vitamin C: 25%
• Calcium: 6%
• Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice

This dish is already so satisfying on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it to the next level:

• Crispy Spring Rolls: Add some crispy spring rolls on the side for an extra crunch and a fun appetizer.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: A light and refreshing Asian slaw with sesame dressing would balance the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickled vegetables, like cucumbers or radishes, would add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy: Serve some steamed greens for a healthy, vibrant addition to the meal.

Additional Tips

• Use Day-Old Rice: Fried rice works best with rice that’s been sitting in the fridge overnight. It’s drier and won’t get mushy when frying.
• Make it Spicy: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili flakes in the sauce or add a splash of sriracha to the fried rice.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap the soy sauce for tamari and use a gluten-free panko breadcrumb option.
• Meal Prep: This dish can be prepped in advance! You can fry the chicken and make the rice ahead of time. Just reheat everything and drizzle the sauce before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

A1: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe—they’re juicy and flavorful, and they stay tender when fried.

Q2: Can I make the fried rice ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can make the fried rice ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

A3: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and golden. This will give you a healthier option without the oil.

Q4: How can I make the sauce less sweet?

A4: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of honey and add a bit more soy sauce or vinegar to balance the flavor.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?

A5: Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more variety and color.

Q6: Can I make this dish spicier?

A6: Yes! You can add more chili flakes to the sauce or mix some sriracha into the fried rice for an extra kick.

Q7: Can I use frozen vegetables for the fried rice?

A7: Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work great in fried rice. Just make sure to cook them until they’re heated through before adding the rice.

Q8: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A8: Absolutely! Brown rice will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor to the fried rice. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before using it.

Q9: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A9: Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth for the sauce.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?

A10: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Crispy Saucy Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice is the kind of dish that everyone loves. It’s crunchy, savory, sweet, and satisfying all in one bite. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so you can adjust it to your liking. So, next time you’re craving something comforting and delicious, this dish will be your new go-to!

Print