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Asian Chicken and Rice Recipe

Asian Chicken and Rice Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Growing up, family dinners were a major event. I remember my mom whipping up all kinds of dishes, but nothing rivaled her Asian chicken and rice. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe. 
I wanted a dish that was not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Together, we’ll explore this delightful meal that perfectly balances taste, nutrition, and satisfaction.
Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this Asian chicken and rice recipe aims to please everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 457

Ingredients
  

  • ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs sliced thinly
  • 1 shallot finely minced
  • 3 cloves garlic pressed or minced
  • ¾ cup carrots finely diced
  • ½ cup frozen peas
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 4 teaspoons neutral oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil
  • 4 ½ cups cooked day-old jasmine rice refer to the quantity of uncooked rice
Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine or substitute with Dry Sherry
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon neutral oil
Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
  • teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger
  • 2 green onions sliced

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by slicing the chicken thighs into thin strips. This allows them to marinate well and ensures quick cooking. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and neutral oil. Mix well. Let this marinate for at least 15-30 minutes; this is crucial for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Ready the Aromatics
  1. As the chicken marinates, finely mince the shallot and garlic. This mix will elevate the dish's flavor. You need that garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think?
Step 3: Stir-fry the Chicken
  1. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
  1. In the same pan, toss in the minced shallot and garlic. Stir for about a minute until fragrant, then add the finely diced carrots and frozen peas. Cook for another 3-4 minutes. The vegetables should maintain some crunch.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
  1. Make a space in the center of the skillet by pushing the vegetables to the side. Pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently, mixing with the vegetables once they are fully cooked.
Step 6: Incorporate the Rice
  1. At this point, add the cooked, day-old jasmine rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and mix everything together thoroughly. The rice will absorb the wonderful flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Step 7: Combine Everything
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the sauce ingredients: light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken bouillon powder, white pepper, and grated ginger. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for a few minutes. This is when the flavors really start to meld together.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
  1. To finish, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top. Serve your Asian chicken and rice warm, straight from the pan. Trust me, the presentation will be just as lovely as the taste!

Notes

  • Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky. Day-old rice has dried out enough to ensure perfect texture.
  • Marinate Well: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Consider preparing the chicken in advance.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in some bell peppers or snap peas. The more colors, the better.
  • Mind the Heat: Cooking on high heat gives a nice sear to the chicken. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
  • Make it Your Own: This recipe serves as a solid base. Swap out the protein for shrimp or tofu, or adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference.