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Chicken Fried Rice Salad

Chicken Fried Rice Salad
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Chicken Fried Rice Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the warmth and heartiness of classic fried rice with the crisp freshness of a salad. Featuring tender chicken, seasoned rice, fresh vegetables, and leafy greens, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Enjoy a nutritious balance of protein, fiber, and carbs with a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Protein

  • 2 cups cooked rice (day-old or freshly cooked)
  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large eggs, scrambled

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup peas (fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 cups leafy greens or lettuce

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Optional Toppings

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Optional: toasted cashews or crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice and Chicken: Cook your rice ahead of time and let it cool completely to prevent mushiness. Grill or sauté the chicken with simple seasoning until fully cooked, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Vegetables and Eggs: Heat sesame oil in a pan or wok and sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add diced bell peppers, carrots, peas, and green onions. Push vegetables to the side, scramble the eggs in the same pan until just cooked, blending the flavors.
  3. Combine Rice, Chicken, and Veggies: Add cooked rice and chicken back into the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything thoroughly. Pour in soy sauce and a bit more sesame oil, tossing to coat evenly and create the classic fried rice flavor.
  4. Assemble the Salad Base: Lay fresh leafy greens or lettuce on a large serving platter or individual bowls to serve as a refreshing salad base.
  5. Layer the Fried Rice Mixture Over the Greens: Spoon the warm fried rice and chicken mixture on top of the greens, allowing the steam to gently wilt the leaves for a pleasing texture contrast.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or your preferred toppings. Optionally, drizzle extra soy sauce or a tangy dressing of your choice before serving.

Notes

  • Use cold, day-old rice for best texture and to prevent clumping.
  • Prep vegetables and cook the chicken in advance to reduce active cooking time.
  • Cook on high heat to achieve a slight crisp on rice and vegetables for enhanced flavor.
  • Add soy sauce gradually to control the saltiness of the dish.
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions brighten and elevate the overall flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken fried rice salad, fried rice salad, chicken salad, quick dinner, meal prep, Asian salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/chicken-fried-rice-salad/