Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and fluffy rice in a savory soy sauce glaze. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to use up leftover rice and ingredients in your fridge. It’s a crowd-pleaser with a great balance of flavors and textures — the smoky crunch of bacon complements the juicy chicken, while scrambled eggs add a soft, rich component. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To serve about 4 people, gather these ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced thinly
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon drippings
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients create a flavorful fried rice that’s hearty and satisfying. Using day-old rice helps keep the grains separate and prevents mushiness. Bacon adds a smoky, savory note that elevates the dish beyond a simple chicken fried rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the pan — it will add extra flavor to the dish.
Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced chicken. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
Add Rice, Bacon, and Soy Sauce
Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine. Return the crispy bacon to the pan. Pour the soy sauce evenly over the rice mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan.
Scramble the Eggs
Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds, then scramble them gently until just cooked but still moist. Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice mixture.
Garnish and Serve
Stir in the sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or pepper if desired. Serve the chicken and bacon fried rice hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice
- Use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky for fried rice.
- Bacon drippings add incredible flavor — don’t drain them out before cooking the chicken and veggies.
- Keep the heat medium-high to get a nice sear on the chicken and to quickly cook the rice without drying it out.
- Feel free to add other veggies like peas, bell peppers, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha sauce.
Variations to Try
- Swap chicken breast for thighs for juicier meat.
- Use turkey bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon for a different flavor.
- Add minced garlic or ginger when cooking the chicken for added depth.
- Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil at the end for a fresh twist.
- Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of water or soy sauce if the rice seems dry. Avoid microwaving for best texture. This fried rice also freezes well—freeze in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Its combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables with perfectly cooked rice makes it a favorite for family dinners or casual lunches. Easy to customize and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal fuss!
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