Leftover Chicken Fried Rice

Embracing the Joy of Cooking with Children

In the heart of every family kitchen, lies the opportunity for culinary exploration and shared experiences, especially with little ones. Engaging children in cooking, not only fosters an appreciation for homemade meals but also imparts valuable life skills and a sense of accomplishment. Our Leftover Chicken Fried Rice recipe is tailored for young aspiring chefs, offering a perfect blend of simplicity, nutrition, and deliciousness.

This recipe transforms readily available ingredients like leftover chicken, rice, and a medley of colourful vegetables into a delightful and healthy meal. It’s an excellent way to introduce children to the joys of cooking while teaching them the importance of not wasting food. By involving them in the cooking process, you can encourage creativity, improve their fine motor skills, and make learning about nutrition fun.

This recipe is ideal for smaller families or those seeking a lighter meal. The inclusion of nutritional information helps in making informed choices for a balanced diet. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together, creating not just a meal, but lasting memories in the kitchen.

Leftover Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice (preferably cooled or day-old)
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, chopped
• 1/4 cup carrots, diced
• 1/4 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1/4 cup broccoli, chopped
• 1/4 cup red pepper
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1-2 slices of bacon (optional), chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Make sure all ingredients are prepared before starting. This includes chopping vegetables, cooking and chopping chicken, and beating the eggs.
2. Cooking:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat.
   • Add carrots, peas, broccoli, red pepper and bacon, sauté for 2 minutes, then add garlic and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Cooking Eggs:
   • Push the vegetables to the side of the pan.
   • Add the beaten egg to the empty side of the pan. when the egg is cooked, use a spatula to dice up in the pan, then mix the egg with the vegetables.
4. Combining Everything:
   • Add the cooked rice and chicken to the pan.
   • Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture, and add green onions
   • Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the vegetables, egg, and chicken.
5. Serving:
   • Serve hot, garnish with additional green onions.

Cooking Tips for Children:

• Safety First: Always have an adult present for supervision, especially when using the stove or sharp utensils.
• Learning Opportunity: Use this recipe to teach measurements, safe cutting techniques, and the importance of cooking with care.
• Fun & Interactive: Encourage children to help with safe tasks like measuring ingredients, stirring the rice, or cracking the eggs.
• Customisation: Let children choose their favourite vegetables or additions to make the recipe their own.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 18-22 g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45 g
• Fat: 12-15 g (Varies with bacon addition)
• Fibre: 3-4 g
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (Dependent on soy sauce quantity)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

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FAQ’s

How Long is Chicken Fried Rice Good for in the Fridge?

Chicken fried rice, if stored properly in the fridge, is typically good for 3 to 5 days. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth. Always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell, texture, or colour before eating.

Can I Eat Leftover Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes, you can eat leftover chicken fried rice, provided it has been stored properly in the refrigerator and is consumed within 3 to 5 days. Ensure that you:

1.  Stored it in an airtight container.
2.  Refrigerated the rice within two hours of cooking to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
3.  Reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria before eating.

Always check the leftover chicken fried rice for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, appearance, or texture, before consuming it. If in doubt, it’s safer to discard it.