PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

I remember the first time I stepped into PF Chang's. The smell of sizzling stir-fries and the colorful plates made my mouth water. Among the treasures on their menu, one item kept standing out—Chicken Fried Rice. I had never tasted anything like it before. 

With flavors dancing in my mouth, I knew I had to replicate that experience at home. Join me as I dive into the deliciousness that is PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice and guide you through making it yourself.

What is PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice?

At its core, PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful blend of rice, tender chunks of chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. This dish exemplifies Asian flavors, showcasing its background in Chinese cuisine while appealing to a broader audience. 

The rice is fluffy, the chicken is juicy, and the vegetables add a wonderful crunch. It’s comfort food at its best, with just the right balance of savory and slightly sweet.

Why You'll Love This PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice

If you haven’t tried making PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice at home, you’re in for a treat. This dish brings the restaurant experience right into your kitchen. Imagine sitting down to a steaming plate of fried rice that captures all the comforting qualities of the original.

You’ll love it because:

- It's Quick: You can whip this meal up in under 30 minutes.
- Flavor Explosion: Every bite is packed with flavors that make your taste buds sing.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a balanced meal.
- Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and create that magic in our kitchens.

The Ingredients

This recipe doesn't require a truckload of ingredients, making it accessible. Here’s what you need:

For the Sauce:

• 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons mirin
• 2 teaspoons hot chili oil
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• Pinch of white pepper
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

For the Rice and Vegetables:

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped

These ingredients create a delightful harmony of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—let's see how to bring them together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking the jasmine rice. You can do this by bringing the vegetable broth to a boil, then adding the rice. Cover and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 15 minutes. Afterward, let it sit for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, mirin, chili oil, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, white pepper, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Stir until smooth. This mixture will give your fried rice its powerful flavor.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs, stirring gently until just cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, toss in the carrots, sugar snap peas, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Now it’s time for that fluffy jasmine rice. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the rice to the other side. Drizzle some additional oil if necessary. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Pour in the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the rice and vegetables. Toss everything together and ensure it's evenly coated with the sauce. Stir in the scrambled eggs and add the bean sprouts and green onions.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Take a moment to enjoy that aroma before serving. Dish it out while it’s hot. The vibrant colors and inviting smell will draw everyone to the table.

Tips & Tricks

• Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use rice that’s been cooked and cooled. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Stay Stirring: Keep the ingredients moving in the skillet to get that perfect fry without browning them too much.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables. Peppers, peas, or corn work wonderfully too.
• Season to Taste: Taste your fried rice before serving and adjust the seasoning if it's needed.
• Add Extra Protein: For a heartier meal, add shrimp, tofu, or additional chicken.

Nutrition Information

Let’s talk about what makes this meal as nutritious as it is tasty. On average, a serving of PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice contains:

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g
• Dietary Fiber: 3-5g
• Fat: 10-15g

Keep in mind that these values will vary based on ingredient choices. Using less oil or more vegetables can enhance the nutritional profile further.

Can I Store PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, a quick stint in the microwave works wonders. You can also do it in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water to rehydrate the rice.

What Can I Serve With PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice?

While this fried rice is a complete dish by itself, you can complement it with:

• Egg Rolls: These crispy delights add crunch.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy sauce pairs well.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Simple sides that boost the veggie intake.
• Hot and Sour Soup: A warm bowl is always a favorite.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh and light, they balance the meal.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Let's explore some variations of this classic dish.

• Brown Rice Version: Swap out jasmine rice for brown rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. It will take longer to cook, but the health benefits are worth it.
• Spicy Chicken Fried Rice: Toss in some extra heat by adding chopped jalapeños or more chili oil to the sauce. It’ll electrify your taste buds!
• Vegan Fried Rice: Use tofu instead of chicken and swap eggs for chickpea flour or silken tofu for creaminess. You’ll still hit all those delicious notes.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Just adjust cooking time. Shrimp cooks faster.
• Buddha Bowl Style: Serve your fried rice in a bowl topped with sliced avocado, radishes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It’s a feast for the eyes!

Conclusion

Making PF Chang's Chicken Fried Rice at home is an experience filled with flavors, textures, and joy. Each step reminds me of the memories I’ve built around food. Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this dish offers something for everyone. 

So, next time you're itching for a taste of PF Chang's, remember—you can create that magic right in your kitchen. Enjoy the process and make it your own. Happy cooking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice Copycat Recipe
• How to Make Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Benihana Fried Rice Recipe