Healthier Chicken Fried Rice With Olive Oil: A Guilt-free Dish

Fried rice is a popular dish that is often made with butter or vegetable oil. However, you can also make chicken fried rice with olive oil, which adds a healthy twist to this classic dish. Olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It also has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the fried rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Add the eggs and cook until scrambled.
6. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt to the skillet.
7. Stir to combine and cook until the rice is heated through.
8. Add the chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
9. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fried Rice with Olive Oil

• Use high-quality olive oil. The flavor of the olive oil will come through in the finished dish, so it’s important to use a good quality oil.
• Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides. This will help to develop flavor and prevent the chicken from becoming dry.
• Don’t overcook the rice. The rice should be cooked through, but it should still have a slight bite to it.
• Use a variety of vegetables. You can use any vegetables that you like in your chicken fried rice. Some popular options include onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots, and peas.
• Season the rice to taste. Add soy sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt to taste.

Variations on Chicken Fried Rice with Olive Oil

• Add other proteins. In addition to chicken, you can also use shrimp, beef, or tofu in your chicken fried rice.
• Use different vegetables. You can use any vegetables that you like in your chicken fried rice. Some popular options include onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots, peas, and broccoli.
• Add other seasonings. You can add other seasonings to your chicken fried rice to taste. Some popular options include garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt.
• Make it spicy. If you like spicy food, you can add chili peppers or Sriracha sauce to your chicken fried rice.

Benefits of Using Olive Oil in Chicken Fried Rice

• Healthier fats. Olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Lower cholesterol levels. Olive oil can help to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Reduced risk of stroke. Olive oil consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of stroke.
• Anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
• Improved cognitive function. Olive oil consumption has been linked to improved cognitive function, including memory and learning.

The Verdict: Can You Make Chicken Fried Rice with Olive Oil?

Yes, you can make chicken fried rice with olive oil. Olive oil is a healthy alternative to butter or vegetable oil, and it adds a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the dish. Chicken fried rice with olive oil is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.

The Bottom Line: A Culinary Symphony of Flavors

Chicken fried rice with olive oil is a delicious and healthy dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give chicken fried rice with olive oil a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

A: Yes, you can use other oils instead of olive oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. However, olive oil is the best choice for flavor and health benefits.

Q: What kind of rice is best for chicken fried rice?

A: The best rice for chicken fried rice is a medium-grain rice, such as jasmine rice or basmati rice. These types of rice have a slightly sticky texture that helps to hold the fried rice together.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in chicken fried rice?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken in chicken fried rice. Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking it.