Copycat PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice Recipe -

PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice is a beloved dish that embodies the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Recreating this dish allows you to enjoy the perfect flavors of Asian cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Fried rice is one of the most famous options in a Chinese restaurant and it rarely disappoints. I love eating this fried rice at PF Chang but it can be little expensive if visiting again and again.

So making it yourself is a lot cheaper than ordering takeout every time you get a craving. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll be enjoying homemade Copycat PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice that tastes just like the real thing. You can enjoy PF Chang’s Chicken Fried Rice on its own or pair it with PF Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken for a delicious combination.

You can also try our related recipes such as Easy Chilli Scrambled Eggs Recipe, Easy Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning, Air Fryer Crispy Taco Pinwheels.

WHAT IS PF CHANG

P.F. Chang’s is a popular chain of restaurants specializing in Asian-inspired cuisine, particularly Chinese-American dishes. Founded in 1993 by Paul Fleming and Philip Chiang, P.F. Chang’s has become known for its vibrant and flavorful menu offerings.

The restaurants often feature a stylish and contemporary ambiance, with dim lighting and Chinese-influenced decor elements. P.F. Chang’s is renowned for its commitment to using fresh ingredients and creating dishes with bold flavors, making it a favorite destination for casual dining and special occasions alike.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS

Authentic Flavors: You’ll love this recipe because it stays true to the flavors you know and love from PF Chang Fried Rice. Every bite will transport you to your favorite Asian restaurant, right in your kitchen.
Easy Customization: Whether you like your fried rice with extra veggies or a bit spicier, this recipe is customizable to suit your tastes. You can make it exactly how you like it, every time.
Budget-Friendly: Eating out can get expensive, but making this chicken fried rice at home is a wallet-friendly alternative. You’ll save money without sacrificing flavor, making it a win-win situation.
Simple and Quick: With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a delicious dinner that the whole family will love.

INGREDIENTS NOTES

Cooked Jasmine rice: You will need 4 cups of light and fluffy rice that forms the base of this delicious dish.
Chicken breast diced: You will need 2 cups of tender chunks of chicken to add protein and flavor to the fried rice.
Eggs: You will need 3 beaten eggs add richness and texture to the dish.
Carrots, diced: You will need 1 cup Sweet and crunchy carrots provide color and nutrients.
Peas: You will need 1 cup of petite peas to add a pop of freshness to the fried rice.
Broccoli: You will need 1 cup of broccoli florets.
Green onions, chopped: You will need ½ cup Fragrant green onions to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.
Garlic, minced: You will need 3 cloves of Aromatic garlic to add depth of flavor to the fried rice.
Soy sauce: You will need ¼ cup salty and savory soy sauce that brings umami to the dish.
Sesame oil: You will need 2 tablespoons Nutty sesame oil adds richness and authentic Asian flavor.
Vegetable oil: You will need 2 tbsp vegetable oil used for cooking and adds a neutral flavor to the dish.
Salt and pepper: You will need salt and black pepper to taste, for seasoning the fried rice.

HOW TO MAKE PF CHANG CHICKEN FRIED RICE: STEP BY STEP

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

To start, cook jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly. While the rice is cooking, dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Next, dice the carrots, chop the green onions, and mince the garlic. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Then, add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take approximately 5-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the skillet to make space for the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and allow them to cook undisturbed for a few seconds.

Then, using a spatula, gently scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked and broken into small pieces. Mixing the eggs with the chicken adds richness and texture to the fried rice.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Rice

Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the chicken in the skillet. Add the diced carrots and peas to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken and eggs. Then, add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps as you stir. The vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrients to the dish, while the rice serves as the base for the fried rice.

Step 5: Season the Fried Rice

Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and vegetables in the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Stir well to coat all the ingredients with the soy sauce and sesame oil. Season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences. The soy sauce adds savory depth, while the sesame oil provides a nutty aroma and flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add chopped green onions to the skillet and stir to combine. Continue cooking the fried rice for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through and well combined.

Once heated through, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the chicken fried rice hot. Garnish with additional chopped green onions, if desired, for a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your homemade PF Chang chicken fried rice straight from the skillet to your plate!

TEMPERATURE INSTRUCTION:

To ensure your PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice turns out perfectly, it’s essential to cook it at the right temperature. Start by heating your skillet or wok over medium heat.

This moderate heat allows the ingredients to cook evenly without burning, giving you perfectly tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables. Avoid cooking over high heat, as it can cause the ingredients to cook too quickly and result in uneven cooking or burning. Conversely, cooking over low heat may lead to soggy fried rice with a lack of caramelization.

By maintaining a consistent medium heat throughout the cooking process, you’ll achieve the ideal balance of flavors and textures in your homemade PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice.

HOW TO STORE

Once prepared, allow the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice to cool to room temperature. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the fried rice can last for up to 3 days. It’s essential to refrigerate leftovers promptly to prevent bacterial growth and maintain food safety. Additionally, consider dividing the leftovers into individual portions for easier reheating and serving.

HOW TO REHEAT

To reheat the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice, there are a couple of methods you can use. One option is to microwave individual portions until heated through, typically about 1-2 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.

Alternatively, you can reheat the fried rice in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or additional soy sauce to prevent it from drying out, and stir frequently until heated through. Ensure the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure it’s thoroughly reheated. Once heated, serve the reheated chicken fried rice immediately for a delicious and convenient meal.

EXPERT TIPS TO MAKE PERFECT PF CHANG CHICKEN FRIED RICE

Use chilled, day-old cooked jasmine rice for the best texture and flavor.
Ensure your skillet or wok is piping hot before adding ingredients.
Preheat your skillet or wok thoroughly before adding oil and ingredients. This step ensures even cooking and prevents ingredients from sticking to the pan.
Cook ingredients in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in soggy fried rice.
Drizzle a bit of sesame oil over the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and aroma.

VARIATIONS

Shrimp Fried Rice: Swap out the chicken for shrimp to create a flavorful seafood version of this dish. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque before adding the vegetables and rice to the skillet.
Vegetable Fried Rice: For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms. Tofu can also be added for a plant-based protein option.
Spicy Fried Rice: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha sauce to the skillet for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference for a fiery twist on this classic dish.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Incorporate diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor contrast. The pineapple adds a refreshing touch to the fried rice and pairs well with the savory ingredients.
Egg Fried Rice: Make a simpler version of the dish by focusing on eggs as the primary protein. Scramble the eggs first, then stir in the rice and vegetables for a quick and easy meal option.

SERVING OPTIONS

Serve PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice as a satisfying standalone meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Use the chicken fried rice as a delicious side dish to accompany your favorite Asian-inspired main courses such as orange chicken, beef and broccoli, or sesame tofu.

Portion the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice into individual containers for convenient meal prep throughout the week. Serve mini portions of the PF Chang Chicken Fried Rice in small bowls or as part of a larger appetizer spread at your next gathering.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for jasmine rice if you prefer. Keep in mind that brown rice has a different texture and may require slightly longer cooking time.

How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming too sticky?

Using day-old rice that has been chilled in the refrigerator helps to dry it out slightly, preventing it from becoming too sticky when stir-fried. Additionally, spreading the rice out in the skillet and avoiding overcrowding will help ensure each grain cooks evenly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy the fried rice fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze leftover chicken fried rice?

Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken fried rice for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I customize this recipe with additional ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different proteins like shrimp, pork, or tofu to suit your preferences.

Is PF Chang chicken fried rice gluten-free?

While the main ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, such as chicken, eggs, and vegetables, it’s essential to use gluten-free soy sauce to ensure the entire dish is gluten-free. Check the label of your soy sauce or look for a certified gluten-free option at your local grocery store.