PF Chang’s Fried Rice is a beloved dish, cherished by many for its flavor and texture. We fell in love with it the first time we tried Chinese food beyond the usual sweet and sour chicken. The flavorful rice with scattered veggies brings another layer of taste. While Lettuce Wraps used to be our favorite, we now enjoy them as an appetizer alongside the renowned fried rice. Making this copycat recipe at home is a breeze.
Key Takeaways
- PF Chang’s Fried Rice is a popular dish that can be easily recreated at home.
- The copycat recipe uses Jasmine rice, chicken broth, and key seasonings to achieve the signature flavor.
- Sautéing the vegetables and scrambling the eggs adds texture and nutrition to the dish.
- The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your preferred protein or extra veggies.
- Leftovers can be stored and reheated for easy meal prep and enjoyment later on.
Introducing This Copycat Recipe
PF Chang’s Fried Rice reminds us of trying something new at a fancy Chinese restaurant. The rice is full of flavor, and you can spot veggies in every bite. While Lettuce Wraps were our go-to, they now serve as appetizers, with the fried rice as the main dish. Creating this dish at home allows us to enjoy the taste without the expense or unhealthy aspects of dining out.
The Popularity of PF Chang’s Fried Rice
PF Chang’s Fried Rice is a hit among Chinese food enthusiasts. Known for its rich flavor and vegetable chunks, it’s often paired with classics like Lettuce Wraps.
Why Make a Copycat Version of This Flavorful Rice?
We love PF Chang’s Fried Rice but find it pricy and not the healthiest option. Making it at home lets us control ingredients and save money while enjoying the same delicious taste.
Ingredients Needed
Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice enhances the dish’s taste, creating a more flavorful base.
Chicken Broth or Water
Using chicken broth instead of water adds a richer flavor.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is essential for its umami-rich base.
Honey or Molasses
Honey or molasses adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the soy sauce’s saltiness.
Ginger
Fresh ginger provides a warm, aromatic flavor.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil imparts a nutty, toasted flavor, crucial for authentic fried rice.
Canola or Olive Oil
Canola or olive oil is used for sautéing veggies and chicken, enhancing their flavors.
Chicken Breasts
Diced chicken breasts add protein to the recipe.
Veggies (Carrots, Bean Sprouts, Peas)
Carrots, bean sprouts, and peas provide texture and color.
Garlic
Minced garlic adds an aromatic, savory flavor to the veggies.
Eggs
Scrambled eggs add richness and creaminess to the fried rice.
Cooking the Rice
Rinse Jasmine rice in a sieve, then boil chicken broth or water in a pot. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is soft. Keep the rice covered off the heat for a tastier and more flavorful result.
Making the Soy Sauce Mixture
While the rice cooks, prepare the soy sauce mix by combining soy sauce, ground mustard, ginger, garlic, and molasses. This mix will be added to the fried rice later, enhancing its flavor with a blend of umami, sweetness, and a touch of heat.
Cooking the Chicken
In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of sesame oil and 1 1/2 teaspoons of canola or olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breasts, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until done, about 5-6 minutes, then set aside.
Sautéing the Veggies
Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add more sesame and canola or olive oil. Toss in carrots, bean sprouts, and peas, cooking briefly before adding garlic. Cook for another minute, then move the veggies aside to make room for the eggs.
Scrambling the Eggs
Add beaten eggs next to the veggies, stirring and breaking them up with a spatula to make scrambled eggs. This technique ensures the fried rice is flavorful, with the eggs blending seamlessly with the veggies and rice.
Assembling the Fried Rice
Add the cooked chicken back to the pan with the rice, pour in the soy sauce mix, and stir until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper, then top with sliced green onions.
Customizing Your Fried Rice
Adding More Protein
For extra heartiness, add more protein such as chicken, steak, pork, or shrimp. Cook the protein separately and mix it in with the rice.
Using Different Veggies
Incorporate additional vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms. Fresh bean sprouts add crispiness and flavor. For a meatless option, add more eggs for protein.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days or freeze for later. To reheat, microwave for a minute or two, stirring halfway, or heat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. If the rice seems dry, add a bit of water or broth and some soy sauce, veggies, or chicken before reheating.
Best Fried Rice FAQ
What makes PF Chang’s Fried Rice so popular?
Its rich flavor and vegetable chunks make it a favorite among many.
Why make a copycat version of PF Chang’s Fried Rice?
Creating your own version saves money and allows for healthier ingredients.
What ingredients are needed for the Copycat PF Chang’s Fried Rice recipe?
You’ll need Jasmine rice, chicken broth or water, soy sauce, honey or molasses, ginger, sesame oil, canola or olive oil, chicken breasts, carrots, bean sprouts, peas, garlic, and eggs.
How do you cook the rice for this recipe?
Rinse the rice, then boil water or chicken broth and add the rice. Cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is light and fluffy.
What goes into the soy sauce mixture for the fried rice?
The sauce includes soy sauce, honey/molasses, and ginger for a unique flavor.
How do you cook the chicken for this fried rice?
Cook diced chicken with sesame oil and canola or olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper, until no longer pink inside, about 5-6 minutes.
How do you sauté the veggies for the fried rice?
Cook vegetables in sesame and canola or olive oil, then stir in garlic and cook for a few minutes.
How do you scramble the eggs for the fried rice?
Make space in the pan, pour in beaten eggs, cook, and then scramble with the veggies.
How do you assemble the final PF Chang’s Fried Rice?
Mix everything together, add the soy sauce mix and chicken, stir in the rice, and season with salt and pepper. Top with sliced green onions.
How can you customize the PF Chang’s Fried Rice recipe?
Add different proteins or extra veggies for variety.
How do you store and reheat any leftover PF Chang’s Fried Rice?
Store in the fridge or freezer and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
The Best PF Chang’s Fried Rice Recipe You Ever Did Try!
Equipment
- Saucepan with lid
- Small mixing bowl
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth or water
- 3 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup shoestring carrots
- 1/3 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
- 1/3 cup bean sprouts
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon molasses
Instructions
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water.
- In a saucepan, bring 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth or water to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger, 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon molasses. Set aside.
Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Crack 2 eggs into the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add another teaspoon of sesame oil.
- Add 1/3 cup of shoestring carrots, 1/3 cup of frozen peas, 1/4 cup of sliced green onions, and 1/3 cup of bean sprouts.
- Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Combine and Cook:
- Add the cooked rice and the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil to the pan with the vegetables.
- Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, spreading the rice evenly around the pan.
- Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir well to combine.
- Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir to combine everything.
Serve:
- Garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Variations: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork for extra protein.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a microwave or skillet.
- Tip: Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice adds more flavor.
