Chicken Basil Fried Rice Recipe: 5 Steps to Deliciousness

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Fried rice is like a blank canvas for culinary creativity, and my chicken basil fried rice recipe is a masterpiece that brings together the wonderful flavors of tender chicken and aromatic basil! It’s one of those dishes that can effortlessly transform leftovers into a delightful meal, and trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds. The fragrant basil elevates the rice, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant green flecks. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this dish is incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s so simple to make! So, let’s dive into this exciting recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

chicken basil fried rice recipe - detail 1

Ingredients for Chicken Basil Fried Rice Recipe

2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled, preferably a day old. This helps achieve that perfect, slightly firm texture that fried rice is known for. If you’re cooking fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool it quickly.
1 cup diced chicken breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small, even pieces for quick cooking. Feel free to marinate it briefly in soy sauce for added flavor before cooking!
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil is the star of this dish! Use a generous handful, and chop it roughly. The more fresh basil, the better the flavor—trust me!
3 tablespoons soy sauce: This will add a savory umami flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less saltiness.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce: This adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a vegetarian oyster sauce for a twist!
1 tablespoon fish sauce: Just a small amount brings a punch of flavor. It’s key in Thai cooking! Just don’t overdo it, as it can be quite salty.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. You can adjust the amount depending on how much you love garlic—more is always better in my book!
1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Fresh ginger gives a lovely warmth to the dish. Grate it finely or chop it small so it integrates well.
1/2 cup diced bell pepper: Any color will do! It adds a bit of sweetness and crunch. You can even mix colors for a vibrant look.
1/2 cup diced onion: Use yellow or white onions for their sweetness. Make sure they’re diced small to cook evenly.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For stir-frying, you’ll need oil with a high smoke point. Vegetable or canola oil works perfectly here.
2 eggs, beaten: Eggs add richness and body to the fried rice. Scramble them lightly before adding them to the pan.

How to Prepare Chicken Basil Fried Rice Recipe

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you even think about turning on the heat, I can’t stress enough how important it is to have everything prepped and ready to go. Trust me, it makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable! So, chop your chicken, dice those veggies, and mince your garlic and ginger. Have your sauces measured out and your rice cooled and ready. When you have everything lined up, you won’t find yourself scrambling for ingredients while your garlic burns. It’s all about keeping that flow going!

Cooking Process

First, heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get that sizzle going! Add in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. Wow, just wait for that aroma!
Next, toss in the diced chicken. Stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. Make sure to keep it moving in the pan so it cooks evenly.
Now, it’s time to add the onion and bell pepper. Cook these for another 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly softened but still have a little crunch. I love that texture!
Push everything to the side of the wok and pour in your beaten eggs. Scramble them gently until just set, about 1-2 minutes, then mix them in with the rest of the ingredients.
Now comes the fun part! Add your cooled jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps as you go. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, stirring everything together until well combined and heated through.
Finally, fold in the chopped basil just before serving. This keeps its fresh flavor intact, making every bite a burst of deliciousness!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken basil fried rice recipe turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!

Use Day-Old Rice: If you can, always use cooked rice that’s been refrigerated overnight. This helps to dry it out slightly, which prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly.
Prep Your Ingredients: As I mentioned earlier, having everything prepped and ready to go is key. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also helps you achieve that delicious, restaurant-quality stir-fry. You won’t want to rush and burn your garlic!
Adjust the Sauces: Don’t be afraid to tweak the amounts of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce to suit your taste buds. Start with less and add more as needed; it’s always easier to add than to take away!
High Heat is Essential: When stir-frying, make sure your wok or pan is hot! Cooking quickly over high heat helps to lock in flavors and gives that lovely charred finish to your ingredients. Just be prepared to move quickly!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, which you definitely want to avoid for that perfect texture.
Finish with Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil at the end keeps its vibrant flavor and aroma intact, making a big difference in the final dish. You’ll love that burst of freshness in every bite!

Variations of Chicken Basil Fried Rice Recipe

One of the best things about my chicken basil fried rice recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some delightful variations to consider:

Protein Swaps: Feel free to swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose. For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu and sauté it until golden before adding the vegetables.
Veggie Boost: Add an assortment of colorful veggies! Peas, carrots, or snap peas work beautifully and add both flavor and texture. You could even throw in some baby corn or mushrooms for an extra umami punch.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, toss in some chopped Thai chilies or a drizzle of sriracha to spice things up! You can also use a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing for a subtle kick.
Herb Infusion: While basil is the star, you can combine it with other herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh twist. Just remember to add them at the end to keep their flavors vibrant!
Different Rice: While jasmine rice is traditional, you can experiment with brown rice for a healthier option or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Just be mindful of the cooking times and adjust as needed.
Egg Variations: Instead of scrambling eggs, try making an omelet on the side and slicing it to serve on top of the fried rice. It adds a lovely presentation and a unique texture!

These variations can elevate your fried rice game to a whole new level. Don’t hesitate to mix and match according to your cravings, and have fun with it! Every version is bound to be delicious.

Nutritional Information

When you’re enjoying my chicken basil fried rice recipe, it’s nice to know what you’re fueling your body with. Here’s a general breakdown of the typical nutritional values based on a serving size of 1 cup:

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 60g

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 150mg

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. But knowing this information can help you enjoy your meal with a bit more awareness, and trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got some burning questions about my chicken basil fried rice recipe? I’m here to help clear things up! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my personal tips to ensure your fried rice is always a hit.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cut it into small, even pieces so it cooks through quickly. Just remember to stir-fry it until it’s no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Jasmine rice is my go-to because it’s fragrant and has a lovely texture. However, day-old rice is key! If you don’t have it, you can use freshly cooked rice, but make sure to cool it down quickly to avoid mushiness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You bet! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite veggies and swap the fish sauce for soy sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce. It’ll still be packed with flavor!

Can I freeze chicken basil fried rice?

Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for about a month. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

What can I serve with chicken basil fried rice?

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also pair it with a light salad, spring rolls, or some crispy fried wontons for a full meal experience. It’s all about balancing those flavors!

How do I make my fried rice less sticky?

Using day-old rice is the best way to ensure your fried rice doesn’t turn out sticky. If you’re using fresh rice, make sure to spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out before using it in the recipe.

Hopefully, these answers help you whip up an amazing batch of fried rice! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my chicken basil fried rice recipe, the possibilities are endless! This dish is so flavorful and satisfying that it can stand alone, but pairing it with complementary sides can really elevate your meal. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Thai Spring Rolls: These fresh, crispy rolls filled with veggies and shrimp or chicken are a perfect appetizer. They add a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich fried rice.
Tom Yum Soup: A tangy and spicy soup can make for an incredible starter. The bright flavors of lemongrass and lime will balance out the savory notes of your fried rice. Learn more about Tom Yum Soup.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A simple mix of stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas tossed in a bit of soy sauce makes a colorful and healthy side dish that complements the flavors perfectly.
Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a drizzle of rice vinegar and sesame oil can cut through the richness of the fried rice and add a nice crunch.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: For those who want to double down on the protein, tender grilled chicken skewers marinated in a bit of soy sauce and garlic make a delicious accompaniment.
Egg Drop Soup: This simple soup adds a comforting touch. The light broth with silky egg ribbons is a lovely contrast to the heartiness of the fried rice.
Pad Thai: If you’re feeling adventurous, serving a small portion of pad Thai alongside can create a delightful Thai feast. The flavors and textures will complement each other beautifully!

With these serving suggestions, you can create a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with flavor and variety. Enjoy experimenting and find your perfect pairings!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of my chicken basil fried rice recipe, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat it while keeping all that wonderful flavor and texture intact.

First things first, let your fried rice cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fried rice! Just spoon it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil to help steam it a bit and keep it from drying out. Stir it frequently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, you can pop it directly into a pan, but give it a few extra minutes and stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

And there you have it! Follow these simple storage and reheating tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy your delicious chicken basil fried rice just as much the next day (or week) as you did when it was freshly made. Happy eating!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.