Chicken Bacon Fried Rice

Ingredients

🥢base

• 5 cups of cold, leftover rice (day-old rice works best)
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup crispy bacon, roughly crumbled

🥦 Veggies & Aromatics

• ⅔ cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
• 3 green onions, sliced (save some green tops for garnish)

🥄 Sauce & Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons bacon grease or cooking oil, divided
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for that rich, nutty aroma)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the eggs:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of bacon grease (or oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and let them set slightly before scrambling. Cook just until soft, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Fry the rice:
   Add the remaining tablespoon of grease to the same pan and increase heat to medium-high. Break up the cold rice with your hands and add it to the pan. Let it sizzle for a minute before stirring, coating every grain with oil to keep it fluffy, not mushy.
3. Add sauces:
   Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the rice is evenly coated, slightly crispy, and golden in spots.
4. Mix in the chicken, bacon, and peas:
   Add your cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and frozen peas. Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
5. Finish with eggs and onions:
   Reduce the heat and fold in the scrambled eggs and most of the green onions (save some for garnish). Stir gently to combine without breaking the eggs.
6. Season and serve:
   Sprinkle with black pepper and taste—add salt if needed. Serve hot, topped with the reserved green onion slices for color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture—it fries up beautifully without clumping.
• Rotisserie chicken is a quick, flavorful option if you don’t have leftovers.
• Add spice! A drizzle of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a delicious kick.
• Customize it by swapping peas for corn, diced bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
• No bacon grease? Substitute with vegetable or peanut oil—it still tastes amazing!

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for beating eggs
• Plate for setting the eggs aside