Some recipes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice is one such recipe. This dish is a hearty, flavorful combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. Imagine a dish that’s quick to prepare, yet packed with savory goodness, making it perfect for any time of day. It’s a meal that feels like a special indulgence, whether you’re enjoying it for dinner, as a quick lunch, or even as a late-night snack.

The first time I made this fried rice, it was for a busy weeknight dinner. I wanted something quick, filling, and delicious, and this recipe caught my eye. As I stir-fried the ingredients, the aroma of bacon, garlic, and soy sauce filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t stop asking, “What are you making? It smells amazing!” When I served the golden, flavorful fried rice, everyone eagerly dug in. “This is incredible!” my son exclaimed, reaching for seconds. Since then, Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice has become my go-to recipe for busy nights and impromptu gatherings.

The first time I served this fried rice, it was at a casual get-together with friends. My friend, who’s known for her culinary skills, had brought her famous lasagna, and I was a little nervous to present my humble fried rice. But as soon as I placed it on the table, the smell of bacon and soy sauce started drawing everyone in. “What’s in this?” my friend asked, eyeing the dish curiously. “Chicken, bacon, and a few surprises,” I replied, trying to sound confident.

When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “This is so good!” one friend said, reaching for another serving. Even my lasagna-loving friend nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” she said with a smile. That day, my Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice became a crowd favorite, and it’s been a staple at every gathering since.

Why This Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, bacon, soy sauce, and vegetables creates a savory, mouthwatering dish.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a base for other proteins like shrimp or tofu.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap proteins, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

What You Need for Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
2. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook until heated through.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
5. Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and eggs.
6. Season the Dish: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
7. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

• Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice as it’s less sticky and fries better.
• High Heat: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve that classic fried rice texture.
• Customize: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and bacon, and add tofu or extra vegetables.
• Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for heat.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or pork.

Make a Healthier Version

• Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
• Lean Protein: Use turkey bacon or lean chicken breast.
• Less Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce.
• More Veggies: Add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale.

Closing for Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

This Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course, a side dish, or a quick snack, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your batch turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this fried rice?
Absolutely! Freeze it in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Can I use different proteins?
Yes, try shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu for a different twist.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms work well.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and bacon, and add tofu or extra veggies.

What’s the best rice to use?
Day-old jasmine or basmati rice works best for fried rice.

Can I make this spicier?
Yes, add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions work perfectly.

This Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Chicken & Bacon Fried Rice

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 chicken breasts, diced

• 6 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
• Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
• Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook until heated through.
• Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
• Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and eggs.
• Season the Dish: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
• Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and bacon back to the skillet and stir to combine.
• Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.