Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice is an easy, tasty way to turn leftover chicken into a delicious weeknight meal. This dish blends tender bits of rotisserie chicken with fluffy rice, fresh veggies, and a splash of soy sauce for a comforting, quick dinner that feels special without much effort.
I love making this fried rice when I’m short on time but still want something homemade and satisfying. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken saves so much prep time, and the mix of colorful veggies keeps the dish fresh and bright. A little scramble of eggs adds a nice touch of richness and texture that everyone seems to enjoy.
My favorite way to serve this is straight from the pan with a drizzle of extra soy sauce and some chopped green onions on top. It’s great on its own or served alongside a simple salad or steamed greens. Whenever I make it, it feels like a warm, familiar meal that brings everyone around the table and makes weeknights easier and more delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Jasmine Rice: I recommend using chilled rice from the day before because it helps keep the grains separate and prevents mushiness. You can also use long-grain or basmati rice as a substitute.
Rotisserie Chicken: This is my favorite for quick cooking and great flavor. Use leftover cooked chicken or cooked shredded turkey if you prefer.
Vegetables: Peas and carrots add color and sweetness. Frozen peas are convenient, and you can swap carrots with bell peppers or corn for variety.
Sauces: Soy sauce gives saltiness, while oyster sauce adds depth. You can skip oyster sauce or replace it with hoisin sauce or tamari for gluten-free options.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture and Flavor When Stir-Frying?
The secret is cooking in stages and using high heat to keep ingredients crisp and flavorful.
- Heat oil well before adding aromatics like garlic and white parts of green onions; cook quickly to release aroma but avoid burning.
- Push aromatics to the side and cook eggs gently until just set—this keeps them tender.
- Cook vegetables briefly so they stay slightly crisp and colorful.
- Add rice last, break up any clumps, and stir constantly to mix and warm through without steaming.
- Pour sauces gradually to coat every bit without drowning the dish.
Working fast and in order ensures each ingredient shines and the fried rice stays light and tasty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – perfect for stir-frying ingredients quickly and evenly over high heat.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you toss and stir everything without scratching your pan.
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping your veggies and shredding the chicken easily.
- Measuring spoons – to add the right amount of soy sauce and seasonings for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap rotisserie chicken for cooked shrimp for a seafood twist that’s quick and tasty.
- Add diced pineapple for a sweet contrast that brightens the dish.
- Include chopped bell peppers or snap peas to add crunch and freshness.
- Use a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick when you want extra heat.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably chilled
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- ½ cup diced carrots
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper or black pepper
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of roughly 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying dish you can whip up any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Ingredients Ready:
Before turning on the heat, shred your rotisserie chicken, dice the carrots, mince the garlic, and slice the green onions, keeping the white and green parts separate. Having everything prepped makes cooking smooth and fast.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the white parts of the green onions and the minced garlic. Stir them quickly for about 30 seconds until you smell their wonderful aroma, but don’t let them burn.
3. Cook the Eggs:
Push the garlic and onions to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and gently scramble them until they just set. Then mix them with the garlic and onions to combine the flavors.
4. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Add the diced carrots and thawed peas to the pan. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still bright and fresh.
5. Add the Chicken:
Toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken and stir everything together, letting the chicken warm through.
6. Mix in the Rice:
Add the chilled rice, breaking up any lumps with your spatula. Stir-fry thoroughly to combine the rice with the other ingredients evenly.
7. Add Sauces and Seasonings:
Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) evenly over the rice. Keep stirring continuously to make sure every grain is coated and the flavors blend nicely. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.
8. Final Seasoning and Garnish:
Season with ground pepper and salt to taste. Give everything one last good mix. Turn off the heat, then sprinkle the green parts of the sliced green onions on top for a fresh finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice hot as a main meal or a tasty side dish. Enjoy the blend of flavors and simple comfort this dish offers!
Can I Use Freshly Cooked Rice Instead of Chilled Rice?
You can, but chilled rice works best because it’s drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry a bit before using.
What Can I Substitute for Rotisserie Chicken?
Leftover cooked chicken, grilled chicken breast, or even cooked shrimp work great as substitutes. Just make sure the protein is shredded or cut into small pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make This Fried Rice Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and eggs, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or tofu. Use vegetarian-friendly soy sauce and omit oyster sauce or replace it with mushroom sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.