Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together the smoky flavors of bacon and the tenderness of chicken, all mixed into the classic texture of fried rice. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or simply transforming leftover rice into something exciting. The added depth of soy sauce, sesame oil, and the crispy bite of bacon create a rich, savory flavor profile that will become a family favorite.

For more comfort food ideas, you can explore dishes like Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns or Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, which also combine ease and heartiness.

Ingredients for Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

To make this delicious fried rice, you’ll need:

• Rice: Preferably day-old and cold, jasmine or basmati rice work well.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into small pieces.
• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
• Vegetables: Commonly used vegetables include peas, carrots, onions, and garlic.
• Eggs: Lightly scrambled eggs add richness to the rice.
• Soy Sauce & Seasonings: Soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic are key flavorings.

For more inspiration on savory meals, check out the Crockpot Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles, which pairs well with rice-based dishes for a comforting family meal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

1. Cook the Bacon
   • Fry the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • In the same skillet, cook the diced chicken in the leftover bacon fat until golden and fully cooked. Set aside with the bacon.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
   • Add a bit of oil to the skillet, and stir-fry the vegetables until softened. Garlic and onions should be fragrant.
4. Scramble the Eggs
   • Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and scramble the eggs. Once cooked, mix them with the vegetables.
5. Fry the Rice
   • Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir-fry with soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasonings.
6. Combine and Serve
   • Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, mixing everything together. Let it cook for a couple more minutes until everything is heated through. Serve hot!

Popular Variations of Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

1. Kimchi Fried Rice: Add chopped kimchi for a spicy, tangy twist.
2. Pineapple Fried Rice: Mix in pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory combination.
3. Shrimp Fried Rice: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
4. Vegetarian Fried Rice: Use plant-based bacon and tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
5. Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili paste or Sriracha for an extra kick of heat.

For more creative takes on comforting dishes, try this Italian Stromboli which can be paired with your fried rice for a fun and hearty meal.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Substitutions

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 45g

Healthier Substitutions:

• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, replace regular rice with cauliflower rice.
• Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner protein source.
• Less Oil: Reduce the amount of oil or use a healthier alternative like avocado oil.

FAQs About Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
   Yes, but fresh rice can be sticky and clumpy. For the best texture, use day-old, cold rice.
2. Can I make fried rice ahead of time?
   Yes, fried rice stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated.
3. Can I freeze fried rice?
   Absolutely! Store the cooked fried rice in airtight containers or freezer bags. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick meal.
4. What can I serve with Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice?
   This dish pairs well with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken or a light green salad.

Conclusion

Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and transforming it into a hearty meal. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner, a meal-prep staple, or for entertaining guests, the combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and savory rice is sure to please. For even more comforting meals, pair this fried rice with dishes like Dorito Chicken Casserole for a complete comfort food spread.