30 Minute Fried Rice
A quick and flavorful fried rice dish with crispy bacon, chicken or pork, vegetables, and savory broth, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp in a heavy skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Remove bacon and all but 1/3 cup of drippings.
- Add rice and brown in the bacon drippings; add chopped onion and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the remaining ingredients along with crumbled bacon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use leftover rice to reduce cooking time. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. If you like a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or sriracha. Using frozen mixed vegetables can also save time and add color. For a twist, consider adding ingredients from other Chinese recipes like peas or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fried rice as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside Szechuan Chicken Wings for a delightful meal. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with Chinese Macaroni Salad for a complete feast. Consider serving it with a light salad to balance the richness of the bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir well to ensure it heats evenly and enjoy it as a quick meal or side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 30 Minute Fried Rice contains roughly 651 calories, with 17g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2980mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, as brown rice typically needs more broth. Keep in mind that the texture will be chewier compared to white rice.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this fried rice vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add tofu for protein and extra vegetables like carrots and peas for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I add to make it more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding soy sauce or oyster sauce when mixing in the remaining ingredients. You can also include garlic, ginger, or even a splash of sesame oil for an aromatic touch. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).