Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken recipe. Packed with savory flavors from sautéed chicken and spicy kimchi, this dish comes together quickly for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for those who crave a fusion of Korean and comfort food, it's a great way to use up leftover rice and enjoy a flavorful one-pan wonder.

Eleanor Briggs

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-15T07:31:37.134Z

Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken is a delightful dish that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors. This recipe harnesses the zest of kimchi combined with tender chicken for a satisfying meal.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken is not just a comforting meal; it’s an adventure for your taste buds. The combination of savory chicken and the tangy punch of kimchi creates a harmonious balance that intrigues both new and seasoned palates. The seasoned rice absorbs the delightful flavors, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as the last.

One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. You can swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Moreover, it can easily accommodate whatever leftover vegetables you have on hand, allowing for a personalized twist each time you make it.

A One-Pan Wonder

In today's fast-paced world, time is of the essence, especially during busy weeknights. This Kimchi Fried Rice recipe calls for just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation with family or friends.

Another incredible benefit of this dish is its speed. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. This makes it a perfect solution for those evenings when you want a hearty, homemade dinner without the hassle.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken a delightful dish, but it also offers numerous nutritional benefits. The kimchi adds probiotics, which are excellent for gut health. Incorporating these beneficial bacteria can aid digestion and enhance your immune system, making this dish a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Additionally, this recipe is packed with protein from the shredded chicken and healthy fats from the sesame oil. Paired with the vitamins and minerals found in green onions and kimchi, this dish provides a balanced meal that fuels your body while tantalizing your taste buds.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Kimchi Fried Rice

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup kimchi, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 egg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Kimchi

Add the chopped kimchi to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Rice

Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and garlic. Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Optional Egg

If using, make a well in the center and crack the egg into the pan. Stir it into the rice until fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Enjoy your Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken!

Serving Suggestions

Kimchi Fried Rice can be served as a standalone meal or paired with other delicious Korean dishes. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it alongside a side of miso soup or a light Korean salad. These options provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fried rice.

For a gourmet touch, you might want to add a drizzle of Sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also gives a little extra kick of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Kimchi Fried Rice is simple. Ensure it cools down before placing it in an airtight container, where it can remain fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is straightforward. You can either use a microwave for quick results or sauté it in a pan for that freshly cooked taste. Just add a splash of water or a tiny bit of sesame oil to prevent it from drying out.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Kimchi Fried Rice by adding a range of vegetables. Carrots, peas, or bell peppers can introduce more textures and nutrients to the dish. Experimenting with different types of kimchi can also change the flavor profile significantly, allowing you to find your perfect match.

For those who love a little spice, incorporating gochujang (Korean chili paste) can elevate the heat and bring a deeper flavor complexity. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance, and discover a vibrant new dimension to your meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, leftover rice works great for this recipe!

→ What if I don't have chicken?

You can substitute with tofu or any protein of your choice.

Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant Kimchi Fried Rice with Chicken recipe. Packed with savory flavors from sautéed chicken and spicy kimchi, this dish comes together quickly for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for those who crave a fusion of Korean and comfort food, it's a great way to use up leftover rice and enjoy a flavorful one-pan wonder.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Eleanor Briggs

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Kimchi Fried Rice

  1. 2 cups cooked rice
  2. 1 cup kimchi, chopped
  3. 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  4. 2 tbsp soy sauce
  5. 1 tbsp sesame oil
  6. 1 tsp garlic, minced
  7. 2 green onions, sliced
  8. 1 egg (optional)
  9. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 02

Add the chopped kimchi to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 03

Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and garlic. Mix thoroughly and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 04

If using, make a well in the center and crack the egg into the pan. Stir it into the rice until fully cooked.

Step 05

Garnish with sliced green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Carbohydrates: 75g
  • Protein: 25g